[Subdue]A list of Cages by Robin Roe, 4 stars

[NancyJ]

I love this book for the friendship tag. I was hesitant to read another book about high schoolers, but I am so glad I took a chance on this one. It's not perfect, but it was very powerful for me. Julian is an orphan who lived with Adam's family after his parents died in a car accident. An uncle later came forward to take Julian, and he broke off all communication with Adam's mother, who cared about him. Years later Adam is a senior helping the school counselor. He is asked to reach out to a Freshman who has been avoiding appointments. Surprise, it's Julian.

The book alternates between Julian's and Adam's points of view, and this was very effective. Adam seemed too perfect at first (he was the happiest ADHD kid that I've ever seen), but gradually the author adds layers and dimensions. Both boys became more interesting as the book went on. (Some of the adult characters did not.) The book had enough complexity and feel good moments to make up for the depressing parts.

The concept behind the title is really interesting and I wish there was more about it. I'm going to review the last couple chapters to examine it more closely.

Trigger Warning - Emotional and physical child abuse by the uncle.