“I only have have one question, scraping the inside of me. Answer it, and I will stumble back into her shadow, shut my mouth, never ask again. I've tried to ignore it, but it won't go away. It haunts my dreams, chases me through every single day, and I don't have the strength to turn around, face it down. So please tell me and I swear I'll never ask again. It's in your power to make it go away, and all you have to do is tell me why you love her more.”
This young adult novel weaves together the narratives of five distinct teenagers from various backgrounds, each driven by unique circumstances to enter the world of prostitution. The story delves into their personal struggles, the choices they make, and the harsh realities they face, ultimately revealing how their paths cross in unexpected ways. Through alternating perspectives, the book examines themes of survival, identity, and the search for connection amidst adversity. more
Ellen Hopkins is an American novelist known for her poetry-in-prose novels. Her works often tackle issues affecting teenagers, such as drug abuse, domestic violence, and self-harm. Hopkins' writing style is distinctive, appreciated for its direct and candid narrative. more
“Only when the tide goes out do you discover who's been swimming naked.”
“Tug looked nervously at his master. Horses aren't supposed to fly, he seemed to be saying.”
“The first rule is not to lose. The second rule is not to forget the first rule.”