Saturday, February 17, 2007

"Impulse" by Ellen Hopkins


Wow! I can say that I'm feeling a little numb after reading this poignant young adult novel. If you've ever wanted to peek inside the minds of teenagers who've tried to commit suicide, or to even try to understand the reasons why--this is the book for you. Ms. Hopkins captured the "troubled minds" of several teenagers after they've been admitted to the Aspen Springs Treatment Center near Reno.
Connor comes from a background most of us can only dream of having, but he still tried to blow a hole through his heart with a shotgun due to severe depression. Tony lived the life of a street-rat and turned tricks with anyone to "survive" on his drug-filled diet, when he tried to OD on them. Vanessa is a beautiful girl who is numb to her emotions and cuts herself to try and feel "real." Bouncing between extreme highs and even lower lows, Vanessa cuts so deeply one time she almost severs her hand from her body, but she is still numb to her feelings.
As you read about their time in the treatment center, you will soon begin to understand each character's thoughts and emotions as they begin to decipher why they each tried to kill themselves.
While not for the squeamish, this book definitely hits home for those people who either suffer with the same issues, or know someone that does. Two thumbs up!

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