This book deals with teenage alcoholism in a non-patronising way. The chances are that, despite what you call it, alcohol will figure either directly or indirectly in your life in a significant way and no more so than as a teenager. Roxborogh's new novel Compulsion looks at the world of teen protagonist Simon. Simon and his world are both changing and he is casting around for ways to deal with events. Things are radically different at home and his comfortable friendship with Kelly is becoming prickly as Simon attempts to cope with feelings for her that she does not appear t return.
School seems nothing more than a waste of time.
Simon carried around a weight of sadness but couldn't figure out where it came form or how he could get rid of it. His usual motivations for life had gone the way of the out-going tide. Into this turbulent time comes alcohol and Simon's first experience is unexpectedly pleasant and rewarding. Unfortunately things soon began to spiral out of control as Simon's drinking takes over almost every aspect of his life - school, relationships and personal pride. It was about three weeks later that Simon discovered that he wasn't the only one using his sipper bottle for liquid stronger water.