Pistes d'exploration

Events are told through a variety of text types from the point of view of different characters. Discuss the unique points of view of the different characters.

In small groups, discuss the way the text presents stereotypes in both its adolescent and adult characters. Consider whether the stereotypes are being confirmed or disputed by the text. Use text references to back up your ideas.

Include the book in a text set for literature circles that revolve around a topic or issue stemming from the story such as school life and mental health.

Mots-clés

Realistic , diversity , friendship , lockdown , mental health , multimodal , multiple narrators , photography , romantic relationships , school life , school shootings , suspense , tragedy , violence

Commentaire descriptif

Alice, Hogan, Isabelle and Xander huddle in the boys’ washroom during a school shooting. Tight language conveys mystery and suspense through the divergent perspectives of the four teens and Alice’s autistic brother Noah. Through lulls during the crisis, each character’s back story emerges, for a compelling combination of character development and fast-paced plotting. Bringing added layers of context and interest are Isabelle’s texting, Noah’s pictograms, Xander’s unintentionally witty “Social Autopsies” and his candid photographs, such as a snapshot of Hogan: “It’s me all right. Smoking on the school steps, alone in a blur of kids coming and going.” Unfashionable waif Alice is a gifted observer: “Gran is right. Like the saying goes: ‘Don’t judge a book by the chapter you walk into.’ But I seem to do it all the time with people.” Intimidating “Hulk” Hogan is haunted by his brother’s accidental death. Isabelle’s picture-perfect façade is beginning to unravel when she snaps “Thank you, Captain Obvious.” Meanwhile, the socially challenged Xander attempts to stay calm “You’re welcome … I’ve been working on my listening skills” and may know something about the shooter’s plans for them all. This funny, dramatic and wise tale offers an action-filled finish, while eliciting compassion for all its flawed characters—including the shooter. “‘I know you’re not a hateful person,’ Gran says, her voice softer now. ‘You’re still scared. Understandably so.’”