This book about two teens in a juvenile detention center didn't work for me. I absolutely believe more fiction needs to be written about the situations that teens face when incarcerated but this isn't it. I liked that it showed the power of books and writing, but the romance situation was so implausible that I skimmed the last half of the book.

I work for a nonprofit that seeks to end youth incarceration (it’s incredibly harmful and doesn’t have the impact you would expect. Rehabilitation and restorative justice work WAY better at stopping the cycle of recidivism.) and I was so excited about a book set in a JDC. But I am quitting it at 18% bc there’s going to be a (straight) romance. That is literally not possible in a JDC. Queer romances, sure, but boys and girls are completely separate. It’s simply not a possibility. And I can tell already the romance will be the focus. Also, Adriana is annoying as a main character. I’d rather follow Pip’s story. Cannot believe I am DNFing a Shusterman…

As an in depth look at America's juvenile justice system, this was amazing. As a story, I sadly didn't like it that much.

Neal and his cowriters have obviously done a lot of research into juvenile detention and its dehumanising effects on people; the regimented lifestyle and the necessity for cliques comes across really clearly, and there were times I had to put it down and remind myself that I could leave the room any time I wanted. Hopefully it will spark some conversations, or at least a closer look at who's in charge in these centres and what the end result actually is.

However, as a story, I didn't like it that much; I thought it dragged and I couldn't empathise much with either of our leads. We just didn't click. It is very well written though and I know some readers are going to absolutely love it.

A mixed bag for me, but I think it's going to do well overall.

3.5⭐️ rounded up

I was expecting this to be more like the other books by Neal Shusterman I have read. It was pretty different but I really enjoyed it.

I loved the background info about all of the kids I. The juvenile detention center, and what their daily lives looked like. I liked how the ‘main event’ (no spoilers!) was presented but wish the last part of the book was a little longer, it left me wanting more! Not a bad problem to have I suppose.

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children’s Books for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

Break to You broke my expectations - in a good way.

I had picked this one up hoping it could be a new option for my 8th grade book clubs - drawn to the idea of shedding light on the experience of kids in the juvenile justice system. And this book is for sure perfect for that, but what I didn’t expect was how fun a story it would be as well.

I was really expecting a heavy reality drama that would beat readers over the head with sad details of the lives of incarcerated young people. And don’t get me wrong, there are definitely sad details - so many layers of what goes on in the lives of teenagers and the realities they cope with sometimes leading them to make bad decisions, sometimes leading them to impossible circumstances. This book accomplished what the authors described as their goal: to show “that there is more to life than the walls that surround us, more to incarcerated kids than the crimes and circumstances that put them in detention, and more we can all do to bring about positive change in the juvenile justice system.” But they achieved this goal subtly. The book doesn’t wallow in the sad details. They aren’t the whole plot of the book. Instead, the authors have the harsh reality stuff embedded within a romantic, at times action-filled, adventure with plenty of surprises and edge-of-your-seat suspense that sweeps you away until you aren’t thinking about what you are learning while in the process of being entertained.

The book was a little bit Holes, a little bit Ocean’s 11, and little bit Dash and Lily’s Secret Book of Dares. It’s got a cast of memorable characters, some likeable, some absolutely not. At times the character types felt a little tropey, but tropes work for a reason so it’s forgivable. It had heartfelt moments, heart racing moments, heart breaking moments, and at least one moment where I’m pretty sure my heart straight up stopped. It’s got a faced-paced and clever writing style, interlaced with poetry and room for imagination. It had me captivated, it helped me understand a bit about kids in the juvenile justice system, and now I’m excited to share it with kids in my classes come fall.

Told in alternating voices this is a great story. So many different perspectives and voices. Great story great characters. Great feeling of hope when it is over.

This reminded me of Punching the Air and Boot Camp, though the setting of Compass was quite different, many of the social dynamics and trauma experienced by children was similar. I did not enjoy the ending "twist" with Jon's situation (don't want to spoil), as it read more like the motive of a psychological thriller antagonist. This is definitely a unique love story, and while imperfect, I would welcome this text in my classroom library.

Thank you to HarperCollins Children's Books for the opportunity to read an arc of Break to You! Break to You releases on July 2nd.

I picked this book up because it was Neal Shusterman, even though I’m usually not so crazy about his coauthored works. I always consider his books for our school-wide reading event. I erroneously assumed that the novel was Science Fiction because of the cover without reading the summary first. Overall, this book just ended up being alright once I got into it. The 400 pages flew by, but this had very little of Shusterman’s syntax.

If you’re a librarian trying to figure out how to catalog this book in your genrefied collection, I hypothesize that this one will circulate better in Realistic Fiction instead of Romance. There is a love story, but it’s not a romance. This book would be a good recommendation to students who haven’t enjoyed a story since reading Holes or The Outsiders, but they have to get through Adriana’s point of view first.

The story opens up with us meeting our MFC Adriana who has just recently been sent to Compass a juvenile detention center where she’ll be for the next 7 months. Upon entering the facility she brings her journal which helps her release most inner feelings when they begin to consume her.

At some point she loses this journal in the detention library where upon her next visit she can’t find it. It’s at this point we meet Jon who has invaded Adriana’s thoughts, feelings, and inner most secret which are often written in poem.

The dual POV switches us to Jon who has been in Compass longer than anyone there. The boys often had switch times from the girls to avoid contact with each other but despite all that Jon and Adriana become star crossed lovers sharing their inner selves through the notebook.

The walls become stifling and soon they both devise to plan to met.

Although slow at first I enjoyed the environment that the authors built to put you in the space of what its may sometimes feel like for those in juvenile detention and how oppressive it may feel. The characters evolved throughout the story and we get a satisfying end.

5. Neal Shusterman has no business being this good. I want to hate him, because I’ve had to buy eight copies of Scythe, since my students love to steal it. Even though this one is set solidly in the real world, it’s still an outstanding adventure with characters that I love, as well as some that are seriously hate-able. I’m so glad Shusterman picked juvenile detention as the setting for this. It’s a place most prefer to forget but this book reminds us that love can be found in unlikely places, Sometimes, what is supposed to be chicken can wind up being lobster—unexpectedly delightful—just like this book. Read it. Perfect for classroom use. Twists keep the action moving until the last page.

I am a HUGE Shusterman fan, so when I saw this coming out I jumped on it immediately. But I was disappointed in this one. It really didn’t feel like his voice was in the story at all. I suppose that is what happens when you have three minds working together to author a novel. I think this is a much needed look into the teen experience of a juvenile detention center. I wish it has dived in deeper though. I feel like I didn’t really get to know all of the characters as well as I would have liked to. And I’ll admit- I found it hard to root for Adriana. I much preferred reading about Jon. The focus was much more on a budding romance than anything else, and I would have appreciated more depth. Something else that stood out to me in this one were the glaring inconsistencies. I know this is an ARC and that a final copy may have these things adjusted (I hope!), but they were noticeable. I did like how the story wrapped up and the ending was satisfying. Overall I think this may appeal more to younger YA readers.

Break to You

By: Neal Shusterman, Debra Young, and Michelle Knowlden

Harper Collins Publishers

Adrianna has been placed into a juvenile detention center, Compass. She has a strained at best relationship with her father and stepmother and acts as though she wants to be cut off from all who love her. The only way she can express her feelings is in her cherished and carefully protected journal. Even though careful, Adrianna loses track of her journal in the school library and was surprised when she found it again someone else has written in her journal going by the name of “J”.

Jon (“J”) has been at Compass for a long time with no real hope of getting out soon. Being able to share his feelings with what feels like a true friend, perhaps even love, seems too good to be true. Will he ever be able to meet “A” in real life? Will he ever get out of Compass?

I can see the appeal of this book for a young reader who might be separated from a friend, love or loved one. The question of being able to get away from circumstance and to a place and time where one is free to make decisions and choices that aren’t dictated by an authoritative figure might seem to be miles away and it would be beneficial to seem this situation played out by a character in a book. I liked the varied format of the book but still found parts of the story to lag.

3.0 Stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Publishers for allowing me to read “Break to You” in exchange for an honest review.

Told through alternating points of view of two teens in juvenile detention, it gives a glimpse into their lives- and the adults who control them. Heart-pounding disbelief. Must read.

In this captivating read, the author masterfully weaves a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through a blend of richly developed characters and a meticulously crafted plot, the book offers a unique exploration of its central themes, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the story's depth and complexity. The narrative is paced perfectly, balancing moments of intense action with thoughtful reflection, ensuring that readers are hooked from the first page to the last. The author's ability to evoke emotion and create a vivid, immersive world is truly remarkable, making this book a must-read for anyone looking for an exceptional literary experience.

Beyond its compelling storyline, the book stands out for its insightful commentary on the human condition, weaving philosophical questions into the fabric of its narrative. The author's skillful use of language not only enriches the text but also elevates the reader's experience, offering new perspectives on familiar themes. Whether it's the intricate dynamics of relationships, the exploration of identity, or the confrontation with ethical dilemmas, this book tackles complex issues with sensitivity and intelligence. It's a testament to the power of storytelling to illuminate the nuances of life, making it a valuable addition to any book lover's collection. Regardless of genre, this is a work that resonates on multiple levels, affirming the enduring impact of well-crafted literature.

As his Margaret A Edward’s award indicates, Neal Shusterman’s books make readers think about themselves, issues of society and how they fit into them. Break to You will prompt thoughts about day to day choices and their long term implications, what constitutes love, rehabilitation and restoration, and the condition of the juvenile detention system. Adriana and Jon have been placed into Compass, a detention facility that claims to be unique and to foster personal responsibility in its residents, at different times and for different reasons. Each young person must learn to cope with the hierarchies and systems within Compass without losing their sense of self or possibly their life. Adriana pores out her thoughts in a journal that is discovered in its library shelf hiding place by Jon and the two begin a back and forth exchange of thoughts that is life-changing for both. Despite their completion separation by gender, the honesty shared between them has led to much deeper feelings than they imagined possible and a plan is hatched to meet face to face that requires cooperation between many who might ordinarily not work together well. Shusterman and his two co-authors include powerful poetry and ballad formats to deepen the emotional impact of the couple’s words and the trio skillfully creates a community that functions despite its total dysfunction. Guards and other employees are portrayed as a mix of capable, kind, cruel and sometimes as devious as the juveniles they are charged with protecting and reintegrating into society. Those incarcerated are also a mixed bag of seemingly hardened criminals as well as those who are repentant and desirous of change. In just a few short chapters, I found myself invested in the futures of many of them and my stomach churned as I anticipated the possible outcomes for the couple and their cohorts. Twists abound and, in the end, loose ends are tied up, but not necessarily in the fairy tale way we wish life would allow. Profanity is not as extreme as one would expect in a juvenile detention unit, however, about 3/4 through there are 3 F-bombs dropped in fairly quick succession. No use of God’s name in vain, no sexual activity between inmates and while there is violence simmering or exploding almost always, it is never graphic or gore-filled. Highly recommended for grades 8 and up.

A great book to be read by young adults, as it touches upon topics that would open their eyes to the justice system, responsibilities and relationships. I find myself to be very intrigued and I couldn't stop reading. Will consider picking up books by the authors!

Book:
BREAK TO YOU by Neil Shusterman, Michelle Knowlden, and Debra Young (thank you Netgalley and Harper Collins Children's Books for the arc---July 2)

Review
5⭐
I'm at a loss for words. If you look at my page, you see mysteries and thrillers, but I love a sappy, lovey-dovey story. BREAK TO YOU is just that. BREAK TO YOU is unlike anything I've read. I was entranced in the relationship between Adriana and Jon, and even though they knew each other only though journaling, I was rooting for them. And I loved when everyone else was rooting for them, minus a few characters.
BREAK TO YOU pulled at my heart strings. As I was reading the last few chapters, I couldn't help but tear up when I learned what came of not only Jon but Adriana, Silas, Monessa, Jolene, etc. BREAK TO YOU was just a beautiful story, and it's definitely worth checking out in July.

What I Liked About It:
*the emotions
*the story itself

I generally love anything Shusterman, and I loved this book as well. The unusual setting and storyline hooked me immediately. Rarely do you find well-rounded main characters, especially those that are represented as intelligent and well-read.

I would have liked to have found out what happened to the remaining characters in the book. A lot of unanswered questions at the end about the remaining characters I loved to hate.

This book needs to be on the radar of anyone who loves YA literature. Adriana and Jon’s story is one of justice and injustice, trust and betrayal, and, above all, finding hope in the midst of despair.

The first half and the last quarter of this book are really good. The section where the characters are just saying they are in love with each other is not quite as good and the pacing slows down in this part.