This book gave me a pain in my gut; invaded my thoughts; stirred up old, awful memories from school; disturbed my sleep; and made me cry. I had to set it aside for a few days during the process of reading it to keep from getting even more swamped.
But it's an important book, and I think everyone should read it. I'd recommend that parents read it first, then introduce it to their children aged 13 and up. Teachers definitely need to read it, as well.
It took me a while to get accustomed to the dual first-person POVs, but the style was appropriate for the story. I also very much appreciated the fact that both a girl's and a boy's POV were represented.
There's been a lot of talk, on a national level, about bullying the last couple of years; but people generally miss the point that a lot of what goes on is subtle. It can be the accumulation of 100 marginally unkind remarks, snubs, and unwanted touches. This book captures all the overt and subtle aspects of the hell that is adolescence. I survived--thanks to involved parents, a core group of loyal friends, and a love of books and music. But it was no thanks to the teachers and other adult staff at school. I have no recollection of anyone ever intervening with our own version of Bryce (the sexual predator character in this book). I don't recall anyone sitting us down and discussing the everyday sniping that's so hurtful. This book is also about the impact small actions--or even lack of action--can make on another person's life. Actions and attitudes have consequences, and we need to be reminded of that.