Of course these people are worse off. I know that. But what I can’t understand is how the hell that’s supposed to make me feel better.
TW: Suicidal Ideation and Planning, Abusive Parents,
Of the four Sidestreets I’ve read, this has the most action, mystery, and suspense.
At first, I was concerned the simplistic writing and style would work against the book, because depression is commonly reduced and made fun of as “just being sad.” Thankfully, I was wrong. The portrayal is well-done and I didn’t have any issues with that aspect. I actually liked how well the procrastination and sleeplessness was included.
I am worried that it didn’t deal with his abusive parents head on enough and gives off the impression that a life-alternating event is the solution. Unfortunately, habits and patterns aren’t so easily stopped and erased. It requires follow up and through.
I am glad it doesn’t pretend everything is solved and Emerson is working on opening up. It’s important for everyone to have a support group and express themselves. Hopefully, this will help against all the toxic masculinity.
A follow up, where things improve with counseling but maybe Emerson or Max need some medication to help out would be good too. Or maybe have a bi-polar MC in a different book that gets on medication that helps.
Dark Side also has a subplot of a girl in an abusive relationship, which is dealt with better than Riot School’s jealous jerk. However, it isn’t enough. I’d like to see an installment dealing with this specific issue where they don’t end up in another relationship. Maybe even some group therapy with same-sex couples and male victims of domestic violence and abuse. TW: Drinking, Accidental Death, Street Racing,
Dead to Me is another entry in the Sidestreets series this time taking on alcohol, risky behaviors, and grief. I really like how we got past the anger and into other emotions before it ended. The last part of the book is all about the fall out and consequences, giving us the most closure. Except...
It’s another cliffhanger, like Rez Runaway, but I’m not feeling this one. It’d be good to know for sure. Having it on the page would be a good reinforcement. Even just the one word: Mi hijo.
I also want to know what happened with the grandson...
This one was the most felt the most like an after school special. Things were a bit too convenient and without the follow up with the grandson subplot there’s nothing else going for it.
I am surprised sex didn’t make an appearance in Logan’s avert-feelings repetoire TBH. That’d add another dimension to the story if done right as well.
Reddit acts like a community bulletin board where people post all kinds of stuff, including questions relating to just about anything.^^^^^^ Okay, but it’s also a cesspool of racist bullshit. I’m trying to think of a better website to use instead, but I can’t. >. Just beware kids....