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Title: Breathing Underwater
Author: Alex Flinn
type of book: YA Fiction
call number: YA/FIC
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This book is strong in character and story.
Summary:
Nick's father is a rich investment banker. Nick has a best friend, Tom and a
girlfriend, Caitlin. Nick becomes controlling and eventually hits Caitlin. His friends see
this and turn him in. He is "Mr. Rich" and very popular, but most of his friends
desert him. He is forced into counseling classes and must keep a journal.
Mario, the group abuse counselor becomes a mentor to him.
I would recommend this book!
Why?
This book deals with a hot and serious issue among teen couples
today: relationship abuse. However, what is wonderful about this book is that
it shows both the devastation on young girls in an abusive relationship and the
affect on a teen boy. I liked how the responsible party is forced to face the
consequences, as well as learn why he thinks he must hit and control, and how to
deal with his problem and learn how to control it, by changing himself.
It is an easy and enjoyable read, told from Nick's point of view. All of the
characters are believable and interesting and demonstrate how different
people are affected by someone who thinks it is okay to hit someone for control.
The book is truthful and accurate. I think both teen girls and boys who have
or have been in an abusive - or even a normal - dating relationship
should find reading this book a worthwhile experience.
Related links:
Alex Flinn Young-Adult Writer
Employee Initials: KS
Review Date: February 2003
Read other reviews by this staff member.
