As the heartbreaking climax unfolds, readers learn about the sexual and emotional trauma the teen has endured. One recipient, his teacher Herr Silverman, picks up on his suicidal signals and offers the listening ear Leonard so desperately needs. As he gives gifts to the four people who mean something to him, he reveals some of his anguish. His anger, emotional pain, and brokenness build until he feels there is nothing left to do but end his life and the cause of his misery. Leonard has had no one to confide in-his washed-up rock-musician dad is on the lam and his self-absorbed, oblivious mother forgets that she has a son. Something happened when they were 12, something bad. But they used to be friends, best friends. Leonard is a loner, an outcast, a misfit. He plans to kill Asher Beal and then commit suicide. Leonard Peacock has big plans for his 18th birthday. May there be more Herr Silvermans willing to take personal risks to save the Leonard Peacocks.- Lisa Crandall, formerly at the Capital Area District Library, Holt, MI The masterful writing takes readers inside Leonard’s tormented mind, enabling a compassionate response to him and to others dealing with trauma. Quick’s use of flashbacks, internal dialogue, and interpersonal communication is brilliant, and the suspense about what happened between Leonard and Asher builds tangibly. Leonard knows he needs help and readers will hope he gets it. Fortunately, there is no bloodshed, just the shedding of many overdue tears.
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