Tricks, by Ellen Hopkins

The book follows the lives of five teenages Eden, Seth, Whitney, Ginger, and Cody. Eden is sixteen years old and lives in a very sheltered enviroment due to her father being the local pastor. Seth is seventeen years old and is trying to figure out his sexuallity. Whitney is fifteen years old and fighting for the spotlight that shines over her sister. Ginger is sixteen years old and lives with her five sibling. Cody is dealing with having to take over the role of his previously deceased dad. Although they all seem different on the surface, dig a little deeper into their journeys and you will find they all lead to one miserable fate; tricks.

Tricks is one of my favorite books for a number of reasons. One reason is how connected you feel to the characters as you read the book, which puts you in the center of whatever is going on, whether it be bad or good. Another reason I love this book is because        Ellen Hopkins does not hold back, she gives you all the dirty details without hesitation or beating around the bush. Its an in your face type of read. If you decide to read this book you will find yourself in disbelief at what happens to these five teenagers. I think this book is perfect for showing teens exacly what not to do in certain situations. The book has parts that will make you cry as well as situations that you can't help but laugh at. I suggest this book to anyone who's looking for an emotion almost thrilling read. I gaurantee you won't be able to put it down.

-Reviewed by Jaz, grade 12.
Montrose Library