Reviewer: Amy Lignor
Title: Try Not to Breathe
Author: Jennifer R. Hubbard
Publisher: Viking
ISBN-13: 978-0-670-01390-6
Release Date: January 2012
Genre/Sub-genre: YA Fiction
Publisher’s Age/Grade Recommendation: 14 and up
OUAR’s Age/Grade Recommendation: 16 and up
Year/Setting: Present/Seaton, U.S.A
Overall Rating: 3.0
Sexual Content Rating: None/Subtle
Language (Profanity/Slang) Content Rating: None/Mild
Violent Content Rating: Moderate/Intense
Jennifer's Website/Blog: writerjenn.livejournal.com/
Dear Readers:
This is a tale of how depression can really affect people’s lives; a look at what really brings people to commit, or attempt to commit, suicide.
The main male character in our story is Ryan. Ryan is a young man who, after being given some truly hurtful words by a girl he really liked, felt as if he were suddenly standing behind a piece of glass - watching the world unfold, but not actually being able to be a part of it. Suffice to say, he does have issues, especially in the ‘heart’ department where he has been hurt by people in the past.
The one place he ever feels free and unhindered - where he can sit in peace by himself and think - is the waterfall that is located in the woods by his home. This is where Ryan goes to be by himself, away from the parents who always look at him as if he’s about to harm himself once again. The only people he really does speak to are the two friends he made in the hospital - Jake and Val. But one day a girl comes from nowhere and jumps under the waterfall, beginning a friendship born in a very odd way.
Nicki is a young woman on a quest. A family member harmed himself and Nicki truly needs answers as to why. Knowing that Ryan was a person who had gone through a situation that could’ve ended in darkness, she befriends him in order to find the answers to her questions. Soon, Nicki and Ryan begin to uncover things about themselves, and begin to open their minds, hearts and lives to one another.
Readers of this book will certainly find a bit of inspiration in the words, watching people learn to live once again and regain their spirit as they gain a friend. The lessons in this book scratch the surface of pain and depression, and shows readers that suicide is not a ‘lone’ event; many people are broken by such a turn, and the author does a good job of showing that. Unfortunately, for me, these life lessons and in-depth views of the darker and painful side of life pale in comparison to the books that really offer inspiration, friendship, camaraderie and love - books that deal with the positive outlooks that more teens, as well as adults, need to experience.
Until next time,
Amy
Question or comment regarding the review or the book? Click here and let Amy know.
Top
Reviews
Featured Reviews
Archived Reviews