About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their teenager seems to be retreating into a shell of apathy or anger after experiencing neighborhood instability or school-based conflict. It is a raw exploration of Zachary, a teen in California navigating a world where violence feels both random and inevitable. As he deals with his parents' divorce and a series of unsettling events, the story examines the thin line between being a victim and a perpetrator. This is a mature read that captures the 'edge' of adolescence, focusing on the internal numbness that can follow trauma. It is best suited for older teens (14 and up) due to its gritty tone and realistic depiction of urban tension. Parents will find it a powerful tool for opening conversations about accountability, the consequences of retaliation, and how to maintain one's humanity when the world feels hostile.
