Johnny Benson hides in his room with his lizards. Although Day relies heavily on stereotypes, her first book tells a surprisingly original and powerful tale of dysfunctional families, isolated and vulnerable children, greed and death. Her sense of humor and attention to detail enrich the read, and carry the story to its twisting, suspenseful and satisfying end. But then she tacks on the epilogue, thumping us on the head as she commits reader abuse with social commentary and a heavy-handed lecture. Day needs more faith in her writing ability.
Readers get the message.
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