Another book from my library's display for Teen Dating Violence Awareness month. This one was different, in that it was told from the perspective of the abuser. In past books, I've had trouble reading a story told from the "bad guy's" point of view, but in this one I found myself sympathizing with him at certain times.

I like how the story is told through a journal writing exercise and how Nick ends up understanding more about himself and his life through the exercise. I really enjoyed the character Mario and how he related to the guys in his class. His story was a very sad one and I like that it was included in a book of this nature. And even though it crushed me, I think it was wise of the author to include what happened to Leo and his girlfriend. I think it's important to show all the bad sides of this situation and not just the ones where the person learns from what they've done.

The ending was a good one for me. I like how Nick chose to continue his life and the conversation with his father. I also like that there wasn't some big happy ending... more like sort of a normal moving on from this chapter in their lives.

I think more teens should get out there and read these kind of heavy-hitting books and I'm so impressed with the authors who are writing them.