Drew Lerman, currently a freshman at Dartmouth, won the Push Novel Contest for this book while only a junior in high school. Those who read about Miami, the Magic City, will be captivated by Lerman's writing talents.
Henry suffers from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), though its origins aren't revealed immediately. At the moment he is struggling with the end of his relationship with longtime girlfriend Becca. He knows he loves her, but they aren't getting along; the more he tries to force it to work, the less it does.
Bill, a childhood friend of Henry's, hosts poker games where lots of guys gather for long nights. It is there that Henry gets to know Charlie, an expelled teen with strong opinions and illegal habits. Charlie is able to rationalize everything by showing how nothing really matters. Henry is ready for some advice and eagerly follows all that Charlie says and does --- for a while.
A night at a party brings Henry to Rachel, a girl who saved his life during a traumatic experience. They make out, even though Becca also is present at the party. Charlie is up to his own mischief that night, and soon the cards are falling from his bravado.
Slowly, Henry pieces together what PTSD is and what he is really feeling about people and events. He rediscovers Bill and real friendship at the same time that his relationship with Charlie changes for the worse. Henry is ready to own up to the fact that he has treated Rachel badly and decides to do something positive for her.
The guy perspective on a breakup is good to have and rarely seen in novels. Another great aspect of this book is that it doesn't tie everything up neatly. Henry recognizes that he and Becca may not have a future, though he knows he is in love with her. Both males and females will relate to those feelings.
Most readers will recognize in Charlie a worship friendship that is not good for the receiver, in this case Henry. Everyone has them at some point or another. While only Henry is surprised at Charlie's ultimate betrayal, readers will be rooting for Henry during his struggle with survival and identity.
--- Reviewed by Amy Alessio
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