Published: May 16th 2015 by Joanna Mazurkiewicz
Page Length: 241 pages
First of all I want to say that I appreciated the exploration of suicide in the book portrayed in an accurate and sensitive manner. Unfortunately, suicide is often stigmatised and a lot of shame is often felt by those who have attempted suicide, or have suicidal thoughts. I appreciate in the book the acceptance of past suicidal attempts by others, and an acknowledgement that times can be tough. However, in saying that I would have loved to see the book having a reference page at the end of resources, and agencies one can contact should they find themselves struggling with suicidal thoughts. I also appreciated the psychological link between the action/thoughts/perception of a parent on the child's own identity, and self belief. What ones parent does/says/behaves influences a child greatly, and can be used to form their own identity and self-worth and this was explored within the book.
I also loved how this book portrayed a love romance between two people with a large age difference. I also liked how this was explored in a consensual way between two adults rather than between one adult and one child (i.e. a teacher and student romance where the student is still a child). I personally believe that age is just a number and should not be a factor in developing a romantic relationship with another person; pending both people are consenting adults.
Overall I felt this book explored some deep issues in a tactful and sensitive way. 5/5 Kudos to the author :)
Let me know your thoughts on the book.
Love Mis(sy)Understood x
