Hate List by Jennifer Brown

During the past quarter I’ve read several books. The one that I believe will last another century and continue to be read is Hate List by Jennifer Brown. The novel tells the story of Valerie Leftman and her return to school for her senior year after a school shooting. A shooting which had been orchestrated by her boyfriend, Nick. She goes through scrutiny and judgement from some while others work to try and understand her. Although the plot isn’t something that you will experience through your day to day life there are many key points that young readers can relate with. Valerie has to learn to except her role in the shooting and deal with the consequences. This is an example to readers that even though you may not think it you play a large role in the lives of others. This books plot of violence and social issues is a topic that will be dealt with through the years. The message shows how one can overcome and prevent tragedies by acknowledging the power that one possesses. Along with themes of how you should treat others the book illustrates the idea of forgiveness for yourself and how to deal with tough situations. Both ideas can be applied to many different aspects of the reader’s own life. Overall the book was really good. As I read it I was unable to put it down. I was  recommended this book by a friend and from there I recommended the book to someone else. Of the people that I know that have read the book it has not only been a book that they enjoy reading but a book that they enjoy conversing about.