Book Review | Help Me! by Donna M. Zadunajsky

A novella about a boy named Mick and his struggles with life. His parent’s divorce and a friend’s suicide make his world unbearable. Each “cut” has a deeper meaning. A cry for help. 

“I spin my dad’s Ruger SP101 revolver on the wood floor of my bedroom. Sometimes, just to see what it feels like, I place the tip of the gun against my temple, but I never once pull the trigger. NO!” 

“I’m more into the slice of the blade against my skin and the blood running down my arm.” 

“It relieves so much pressure.”

“And I can breathe again…” 

Review

*This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review*

This was a hard book to read, but at the same time it was impossible for me to put down. It deals with some incredibly tough subjects, including suicide, self harm, bullying and grief.

I'll admit right off the bat. This kind of story, packed full of emotion, and tackling tough issues, is the kind of thing that appeals to me. When I read something, I like to feel something.

This book definitely wins on that front. The story is told in two parts. The same events from two different views, and I really liked what this added to the story. Not only a sense of suspense, waiting to find out what was happening with Mick's story, but also showing how different people, have different ways of looking at the same situation, and how bullying and it's results, touch so many people. Not only the ones being bullied, but other people in their lives too.

This book is thought provoking on many levels. It brought tears to my eyes, and I felt it dealt with really difficult topics, in a sensitive way. It was well handled.

On a more negative side. There were moments that frustrated me. I wanted to scream, do more, help him. It made me think about how people may know about someone who's suffering, but they don't speak up, for whatever reason. It made me want to cry, because I know how true it is. People don't take things seriously enough, or they're worried about what will happen if they do speak out, but it frustrated me seeing nothing done to help this boy, who desperately needed help.

As far as the book goes, I did really enjoy it, and I think it's the kind of book that a lot of people could benefit from reading. Creating more of an awareness, of what bullying can do to people, and how many young people really do suffer.

Rating

8/10