Madness

After a failed suicide attempt, 17-year-old Brooke Danvers spent six weeks at an inpatient facility, now followed by therapy sessions. Her parents have removed every potential danger from their Michigan home and put strict rules in place to keep Brooke safe, yet she remains “determined to die.” Brooke’s origami cranes and her best friend, Duckie, are calming influences, but it’s a new student and fellow senior, Derek, who helps her see a positive side to life. Derek, however, has his own painful history, and as their relationship intensifies, Brooke’s therapist advises her that “sooner or later, you’re going to have to learn to live for yourself.” Love and hope counterbalance the many dark moments in Brewer’s insightful portrayal of teens’ mental struggles. Although the plot becomes predictable, the characters are richly drawn; readers will yearn for them to find the peace they desperately need. An author’s note that includes resources for readers with depression or suicidal thoughts appears before the story, a small decision that establishes a sense of trust and safety from the outset. Ages 14–up. Agent: Michael Bourret, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. [em](Sept.) [/em]