CW: Torture of teens ( )

I couldn't finish this. I have a difficult dealing with stories where people abuse others.... especially the mistreatment of children... doesn't matter how old the kids are, to render abuse because of power makes me ill. ( )

I found this book relatable for a YA audience. There were elements that I think were very true (1) teenagers think they know everything, (2) teenagers want autonomy, (3) teenagers do not always know what is best, and (4) authority can overstep. While I do hope that no teen who ever reads this book is on the path towards a Boot Camp, that certainly does not mean that it would never happen. It is a good book to remind us all that resilience can be matched, and it may be matched in undesirable ways. ( )

Garrett's parents don't approve of his behavior. 15-years-old, he doesn't listen, and is having a relationship with a former teacher. They arrange for him to be kidnapped and taken to Lake Harmony, a boot camp for delinquent and troubled teens where he is to be reprogrammed, no matter what it takes. ( )

At first I found this book unbelievable...what disciplinary program actually believes cutting kids down and abusing them builds them into better people? But the author cites his research and sources so apparently this is really happening across the country. The story finally picked up for me when Garrett, Pauly and Sarah make their escape. ( )