An impactful, powerful, young adult story about bulling and its consequences. The story is told from the point of view (POV) of basically everyone in the book, however, Marcus, a teenage boy is the main character. Marcus is subjected to horrific bullying, and as a result, it has impacted his whole life, particularly his mental health. The story picks up at the point of no return. Marcus has finally had enough and lashes out at the bullies who make his life a misery. His actions have repercussions for everyone around him, which are explored through the other characters (the bully, teachers, parents, medical staff) POV, not just his own. I loved the way the story showed the internal dialogue of all the characters. It allowed the author to explore the facet of how often people act in a way, which can be contrary to how they really feel due to a job role, a persona, personal experience, societal expectations, or some other pressure or trauma in their personal life.

I felt the second part of the story fell flat, when the action slowed down after Marcus lashed out. The story then focused on two characters Marcus and a love interest and their growing relationship. The events they experienced together seemingly unbelievable, especially considering Marcus’ fragile mental health. By the end, I felt like the author was tying all the lose ends of the story into a perfect happy ending, which did not ring true. I wondered how people experiencing bullying and reading the book might feel, if they do not find the same resolutions to their own bullying experience?

 At some points, the story is horrific, terrifying, and scary. I felt like I was on a rollercoaster ride of emotion and action until Marcus is removed from the bullying. Then I felt like I was reading a different story: that there were two stories, within one book. The second story? Not so enjoyable. However, the book did brilliantly portray the experience of bullying and its effects on everyone, not just the victim. It made me feel extremely uncomfortable, because it was so realistic and ultimately, the book carries important lessons about bullying, being misunderstood, conformity and helplessness.