Review: Impactful
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 22, 2014
For a short story, this has a powerful impact, and could make a big difference in lives, if they would read and understand it.  Re-reading reviews, it is apparent that many have missed the point I believe the author was making.  It is an ugly story, and it's focus is on teens, but those teens and those attitudes can carry into their adult lives.Many people knew people like this in high school - the "kings' and their worshippers, who are willing to do anything to be accepted, and part of the gang.  We see it in 'Bug', who has been let down by his parents, but protected by his older brother.  He admires him, and wants to be just like him, until he finally sees who his brother really is, and what impact his actions have.  And through the epilogue, we learn the lifelong effects and results.  It is the kind of life lesson we wish we could teach to every teen out there, wanting to 'fit in'.Rough language and actions, but it is a rough story.  It is hard for me to say I recommend it for teens, but the essence of the story is something they need to learn.  They need to know that their actions have consequences, and may affect their whole lives.