About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with the overwhelming desire to be part of the 'in-crowd' or when you suspect they are making compromises to their values for social gain. It is a powerful tool for opening a dialogue about the invisible line between harmless fun and dangerous peer pressure. The story follows Jericho, a high schooler who believes joining an elite school club is his ticket to the perfect life, only to find himself trapped in a cycle of increasingly cruel hazing rituals. Sharon M. Draper handles these heavy themes with raw honesty, exploring how even 'good kids' can find themselves in impossible situations. The book addresses loyalty, integrity, and the devastating consequences of silence. While it deals with intense topics like physical harassment and the accidental death of a character, it provides a crucial reality check for teens navigating the complex social hierarchies of high school. It is best suited for ages 14 and up due to the maturity of its themes and the tragic ending.
