Smack

Rating:
Summary: A Masterpiece. Groundbreaking, and sadly beautiful.
Review: To say that "Smack" is the best contemporary Young Adult novel ever written would be to undermine its potential to affect ANYONE who reads it (Not to mention its literary excellence on the world stage). I say groundbreaking not because of the heroin theme -- that is only one element of an incredibly complex book -- but because the story, characters, and details have not been toned-down, as they are in so many YA books. I'm aware that this book has been criticized for just this reason, but I ask you: Are 14 year-olds as toned-down as some authors would make them out? I haven't seen any book (regardless of genre) which so flawlessly portrays young and modern characters' relationships with each other. Take for instace, the intensity of the four main characters lifestyle. Tar, Gemma, Lily, and Rob are all living together, sharing smack and everything else. The fact that they all have the same weakness makes for a relentlessly tempting situation. Burgess will make you claustrophopic with his accurate portrayal of such a close group. Burgess also does a brilliant job describing sexual relations between youths of varying ages, backgounds, and mentalities. The book is absoulutely enthralling, not "too long" as one professional reviewer thought. Burgess writes what is necessary in order to make his well-developed characters come to life. I really can't say all I want to about this book here, but take my word for it: This book will not disappoint you. Bravo to Mr. Burgess!

Rating:
Summary: Completely addictive
Review: Even though I'm young(12), I was immideatly sucked into this book! The way of writing in first person really caught me as different and shocking. Kind of like seeing things through the other's eyes. I understood everything that was going on and would definetly recommend this to anyone that hates to put books down!

Rating:
Summary: A very real account of life and drug-abuse on the streets.
Review: This book begins with the two 14-year-old main characters, Tar and Gemma. Tar, who is very timid and depressed, lives with his alchoholic parents who emotionally and physically abuse him severely. He decides to run away to Bristol where he meets a shop owner who feels bad for him and introduces him to a couple who let him live in their squat and who take care of him. Shortly after, Gemma,who is fed up with her overprotective parents decides to go to Bristol and live with Tar. After a couple of nights, Gemma meets Lily, an exotic girl whom she really admires. Gemma convinces Tar that they should move in with Lily and her boyfriend, Rob. Lily and Rob are heroin addicts who introduce the drug to Gemma and Tar. Gemma, being the fun-loving person who will try just about anything jumps at the opportunity. Tar, on the other hand who has never even smoked a cigarette, is reluctant at first but gives in to Gemma's persuasion. Before you know it, they are all addicts and will do anything to keep up their nasty habit from lying, stealing, prostitution, etc. Towards the end of the book, the shop owner from the beginning sees Tar on the street and he looks so bad, it takes him quite a while to even recognize him. Each chapter of the book is told from one character's point of view. The characters are so real that the reader cannot help but become attached. Several times, I was so angry with Gemma's stupidity and immaturity I wanted to scream and at most times I felt so bad for Tar I wanted to cry. The characters are so clear in my head that I don't think I will ever forget this book. Although, the book has a somewhat hopeful ending, the reader is still left with an empty feeling. I try to convince anyone who will listen to me to read it! I found it very interesting that in the author's notes in the beginning of the book, he says the characters are based on actual people and at the end of the book, the author tells us he has lived in squats. There is no doubt that the author knows first hand about the subject he has written about. I give this book ***** plus!!!

Rating:
Summary: It is a book that tells about life of troubled teens
Review: I thought this book was awesome. It was about a two teenagers that have probelms and run away.It talks about the use and effect of harmful drugs. The book`s characters are so great. The author describes them wonderfully. Just when you are getting bored something happens and wow!I really liked how not just one person was telling the story , but you got to hear what other people tought of the situation. You really get the feel of what their life was about. They told you about what drugs feel likr and what they can do to people. I think that a lot of teenagers should read this book!

Rating:
Summary: True-life a real page turner
Review: Smack is the first book I have read in a long time that actually describes addiction for what it truly is - ugly. It does not sugarcoat the reality or convince others that heroin is "fun". Overall, a masterpiece sure to live on for generations to come.

Rating:
Summary: have a few hours to spare!
Review: you won't be able to put this book down. a very easy read, i was done in a couple of days and i'm normally a very slow reader. burgess uses the first person perspective (which i always love) not only for the main character, but for everyone involved, alternating the narrating voice with each chapter. through this fresh way of writing, the reader is pulled in to the story. you'll find you're actually rooting for these kids. the catchy cover will make you pick it up and before you know it, you'll be into the second chapter. i think my copy is already on it's sixth reader. read this book. everyone loves it!

Rating:
Summary: heartbreaking
Review: this book was so good i read it in a few days, i couldnt put it down and neither will you. if you like drama and realistic looks into our often ugly world, you will love this book. wonderful writing. this story is painful.. it is not sugar-coated, so be prepared. i would recommend it to teens as well as college-age on up.

Rating:
Summary: A Thrilling, Absorbing Read
Review: This was a unique reading experience; I felt like I was actually going through what the characters went through. It's very well written, and I cried for Tar. Gemma turns out okay in the end; in fact, I think she's learned from her mistakes. At the beginning she was such a brat. But poor Tar changes so much. I would recommend this book to both teenagers and adults. A suggestion wouldbe that this book be used in some high schools. It's very realistic descriptionof the perils of heroin abuse could helpsome kids deal, and others could maybe be prevented from following in Tar and Gemma's footsteps.

Rating:
Summary: A great read
Review: this book was won of the most thrilling books I have ever read and it is a must read for anyone

Rating:
Summary: Amazing
Review: I always have a hard time finding a book that I like and that I never get bored with. "Smack" fulfilled every aspect that a good book has. The book was Amazing! Buy it.