Gr 9 Up—The Forum was originally a place to share sorrows, where Phoebe and others could try to make sense of the injustices in their lives, but the Mastermind made it into something else entirely. Now there is a plan, one that could end countless lives if it is seen to completion. Told through interwoven narratives, this title follows April, Gavin, Phoebe, Lincoln, and several others over the course of one monumental day. This timely and thought-provoking novel delves into the difficult subject of school shootings, getting at the heart of why and how such acts of violence occur. Combs succeeds in creating well-developed characters with story lines that tie together seamlessly by the end. Narrators Lauren Ezzo and Todd Haberkorn use unique voices for the characters, allowing listeners to easily differentiate among the wide cast of speakers.
VERDICT A good pick for mature young adults who may be alarmed but intrigued by the prevalence of school shootings in today's world. ["Although beautifully and intricately written, this reflection on growing up in the age of terrorism and on the Internet reads hollow": SLJ 8/16 review of the Candlewick book.]
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