Craig Cunningham

Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial Audio for an Advanced Reading Copy of this book!

I admit, I wanted to read this audiobook because of my boy Dawson. As any Dawson's Creek 90's girl, how could I turn down an audiobook narrated by James Van Der Beek? You're right, I couldn't. Shout of to you James- you did the book justice! Apart from my obviously bias, his voice and tone were a great match for Cole's (the narrator) personality.

I loved this book. I also think I would have loved it equally if I had read the print version. As a high school teacher (in this crazy post-pandemic era), it's soothing to read a story of reckoning while gleaning ideas of how to reach the teenagers in my school.

Reading about a diverse group of students who have made mistakes, caused chaos and generally wouldn't typically hang out with one another made for an encouraging read of how one person, in a short period of time can change the course of someone's life for the better.

This novel brought the reader through a wide course of emotions and with the characterization supplied by Cunningham, made for a very captivating read.

Despite how short the book was, it managed to give a complete, well-rounded story- without making the reader feel like the book just randomly ended or as though details were missing.

I also personally liked the ending where the readers found out the plans of each of the characters and not all of them were college-bound. As a teacher, I know that college is not the correct career path for all of my students, nor is it feasible for all of my students to afford. I liked that some of the intelligent, "smart" characters chose different paths that could be just as fruitful for them. So many students feel like the have to go to college (like it's the only option) when there are so many technical careers and other opportunities that may fit them more and are just as respected.

5 out of 5. Loved this and can't wait to read more from this author.… (more)