Full transparency, I wouldn’t have normally picked this is, except it’s a text we teach in class! My teacher brain could review this in a whole different way, but instead, I’m going to treat it like a regular personal review.

My first thought is that I really liked it! It’s written using multiple poems (verse novel) which isn’t something I’ve read before. Due to this, my enjoyment definitely also comes from a bit of “oooh something new!” The story itself held a good pace aided by the use of poems instead of prose.

Whilst I don’t think many teenagers would pick this book up themselves, I do think there are some important themes and messages; humility, found family, breaking stereotypes.

I can’t say I would intentionally pick up a book like this again BUT I’m happy I did as it’s given me a valuable reading experience.

Triggers include an abusive father, depression, alcoholism, deep grief, poverty, homelessness, and loss of loved ones.