Kristin Butcher... has novel ideas

Quill & Quire

... will heighten social consciousness about issues such as homosexuality, prejudice, and suicide ... (Jill Bryant)

CM Magazine

Shaw's emotional pain is clearly developed, and the descriptions of Tess and Jai are excellent ... The clear theme of the pain of prejudice for the victims, be it on the basis of race or sexual orientation, will appeal to today's activist teens. Highly Recommended. (Joan Marshall)

Southwestern Ohio YA Materials Review Group

... characters are well-developed and the plot is believable and sophisticated, making it a great choice for older reluctant readers. (Bonnie K. Mathies)

PSLA New Page

This book shows a wonderful relationship with the boy’s mother as they work together to understand and still honor the father’s memory. (Jeannie Bellavance)

Canadian Book Review Annual

The author draws on such potent subjects as suicide, prejudice, homosexuality, creativity, friendship, and recovery to create a forceful and relevant narrative. Highly Recommended. (Deborah Dowson)

Focus on Women

... carefully balances a difficult topic with an interesting plot to stimulate targeted readers and keep their interest. (Cherie Thiessen)

BC Bookworld

Shaw's dad was no Ernest Hemingway, but Ernest Hemingway was perhaps a little bit like his dad. Human. Scared. It all depends on how you want to look at things. (Louise Donnelly)

Resource Links

... "more than just a quick read" ... Pick it up -- you'll be glad that you did! (Connie Forst)

NMRLS

This is a high-low book that has a strong mystery hook (why did Dylan Sebring kill himself?) with a light romance subplot, a simple yet varied vocabulary, and characters that talk realistically enough to keep the attention of teens while remaining clean enough for classroom use. Highly recommended for middle school and up. (Beth Gallaway)

Children's Literature

This well written, engaging, high interest book (large print and short length) realistically conveys the emotions of a high school boy. (Fran Kaiser)

School Library Journal

... portrays true, if sometimes raw, emotions, and Shaw's character growth is impressive and believable. (Sharon Morrison)