I read this book in two days, every time I could for it in. The story is intriguing. The main character, Rem is convoluted and easy to care for.

I’m sure the subject matter might be too violent for some, but it was thought-provoking and more than a little heartbreaking.

( )

I read this book in two days, every time I could for it in. The story is intriguing. The main character, Rem is convoluted and easy to care for.

I’m sure the subject matter might be too violent for some, but it was thought-provoking and more than a little heartbreaking.

( )

Jeremy Braithwaite is struggling to rebuild his life after his best friend is shot to death by a classmate -- Columbine style -- in front of his eyes. Yet Rem can't move on because his mother, a noted psychiatrist, is trying experimental procedures on the convicted killer, Franklin, and using Rem as a go-between. In a powerful subplot, Rem is gay and out of the closet but having a very-closeted encounter with another friend. As the book proceeds any/all of the "Boreal five" as the gang of friends are called, will be targeted for murder. If all of this sounds like a lot of drama.... it is. On the plus side: Rem is a sure and likable voice. His homosexuality is deftly handled: a real part of him but not graphic or off-putting. The dialogue and side characters are fine (a bonus shout-out for having some positive adults!) The plot re: his mother's treatment of 'bad boy' Franklin is especially interesting; the progression of bodies and slasher-like violence, not so much. It's almost as if the author didn't trust the true theme of the book (Can evil be cured? to what extent are we responsible for the things we do? Are we all capable of doing bad things?) and threw in Hollywood-style action to strengthen the plot. Too bad. ( )