This Is Where It Ends by Marieke Nijkamp

This Is Where It Ends by Marieke Nijkamp takes place over the course of fifty-four minutes during a high school assembly that suddenly turns into a crisis. The story is told from multiple students’ perspectives, each revealing different relationships, secrets, and emotions as events unfold. As chaos spreads, the characters are forced to confront fear, guilt, love, and courage in real time. The novel focuses on how one moment can permanently change many lives and how students respond differently under pressure.

This book was intense and emotionally heavy, but also very powerful. I liked how the story was told from different points of view because it helped show how the same moment can feel completely different to each person. The short chapters made it fast-paced and hard to put down, even though the topic itself is difficult. Some parts were upsetting, but they felt meaningful rather than dramatic for no reason. I think this book is best for readers who like realistic fiction and stories that explore.

Reviewed by Anonymous, Grade 11

Glendale Central Library