Genre: Realistic Fiction (Dark Modern Realistic Fiction - mystery, murder, prostitution, bullying, sexual abuse, suspense/thriller)
Subjects: YA fiction - high school, social issues, adolescence, friendships, social groups, kidnapping, sexual abuse
Audience: ages 14 and up
Period 8 is a class in high school where students can talk about the issues that they are experiencing - socially, in their families, and even morally. Paulie Baum is nothing if not honest. He finds himself in a situation where he "unintentionally" cheats on his girlfriend Hannah, tells her what he did, and she breaks up with him. He understands why and accepts responsibility for his actions. He made a poor choice, but he soon finds himself in the middle of a mystery when Mary (the girl he slept with) disappears. He begins to become suspicious of Arney, the class president who has spread too many lies and Paulie catches on that he is using everyone for his own hidden agenda. Paulie can't leave it alone and continues to ask questions. Mary reappears but her stay is only temporary as she soon disappears again. It is discovered that she is being held against her will in a prostitution ring that is led by Arney. Arney sets out to kill Paulie and Hannah and nearly succeeds.
Arney is caught, found guilty, and jailed but Mary is never found.
Crutcher has written this young adult novel in a believable voice with an alternating point of view to develop each character. The story flows quickly due to the large amount of dialogue, foreshadowing, and building of suspense. It is better for older teens as it contains sexual situations and quite a bit of profanity.
Teaching Resources:
Word from the Author
Author's Website
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