About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is processing the weight of a difficult home life or the fear of a sibling leaving the nest. This verse novel captures the intense bond between two brothers, Jimmy and Frank, as they seek solace in the ocean while navigating life with an alcoholic father. Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, the story shifts from the shores of Florida to the jungles of Southeast Asia when Frank is drafted. It is a poignant exploration of loyalty, resilience, and the bittersweet transition into adulthood. Given the heavy themes of substance abuse and war, it is most appropriate for high schoolers who are ready for a realistic, emotionally resonant look at family trauma and the impact of historical conflict on young lives.
