Read as a teen...didnt get it then.Doubt I ever will. ( )

unspoken teenage suicide pact
in a hospice
ignorant of psychic powers ( )

Barney Snow has a euphemism for everything. Treatments are "the merchandise," and Dr. Lakendorp is "the Handyman." In every way, he tries to block out the fact that he lives in an experimental hospital, where the terminally ill agree to undergo experimental treatment for the good of those in the future. Unlike the others, Barney isn't sick, and he has no idea what he's doing in "the Complex." But he finds plenty to keep his mind occupied, from co-resident Mazzo's hot twin sister to Barney's great plan to steal parts from the next door junk yard, build a car, and give bitter Mazzo one last joy ride. Cormier builds his story slowly, but the characters and eery mood keep the reader enthralled. Recommended for ages 14-18.

Award: the 1985 Colorado Blue Spruce Young Adult Book Award (Nominee) ( )

Cormier tackles medical ethics in this book, set in a research facility for people with terminal illnesses. Considering that nearly every character in this story is dying, it's not as depressing as it could be. This is due to the protagonist, Barney, and his strength of spirit. The ending is so tragically beautiful it brought tears to my eyes. ( )

Not an easy book to read even by Cormier's standards, but well worth persevering, ( )