Impulse

The poetic novel "Impulse" by Ellen Hopkins is about three teenagers - Tony, Vanessa, and Connor - who attempt suicide, but fate has interfered with their plans and saved them. Now, they are put in a psych hospital, trying to find a quick way out and also kicking their habits. I have previously read "Crank" and "Glass" by the same author, and loved it! So I decided to step away from that series and see what else Ellen Hopkins wrote.

The novel follows the story of three teenagers: homosexual Tony, bipolar Vanessa, and rich Conner. Tony's painful childhood forces him to turn his problems to pills. Vanessa's pain can be taken away from her, thanks to a blade. Conner, who has everything in life, gives into pressure and decides to do one thing he thinks is rational: pull the trigger. Although, fate interferes with their plans, and saves them from dying. Fate also brings them together by bringing them to a psych hospital in Reno, Nevada. As the story progresses, you hear about their painful pasts while they try to find a way out quickly. Also, an event happens that will change their lives forever.

The book was powerful and emotional, which made it enjoyable to read! I think it really teaches teenagers, my age and older, that suicide can hurt you and affect others around you. Although, some parts of the book made it a little uncomfortable to read because of the material that Ellen Hopkins mentioned in it, such as details about cutting and so on. Other than that, it was a very smooth read and I think if you enjoyed "Crank" or "Glass", you definitely will enjoy "Impulse". Even if you haven't read any of the books by Ellen Hopkins, the book is definitely amazing! Although, if you feel uncomfortable with suggestive language or material that are mentioned, I recommend that you don't read it. It's another amazing novel by an amazing and unique author!