Wow. That's all I can think to say. The book couldn't have ended with a better line, changing the entire rest of the novel for you on the spot. I also appreciate the way that the book is written, almost like Phillip's file. It consists of memos, conversations, and diary entries that give you the whole story of Philip's actions, the story that he himself can't even fully get. Philip Malloy is a bright kid, but he obviously has some sort of a disdain for literature. So, whil singing along to the national anthem one morning, his english teacher, Miss Narwin, sends him to the principal's office. Philip swears she has a grudge against him, and things elevate from there. Was Philip simply trying to be patriotic? Or was he intentionally pushing Ms. Narwin' buttons? Or was the case something completely different, something so simple, yet something to hide...

I absolutely love this book. I read it all in one day because I couldnt but it done. I highly recommend it.

The way it's written is sort of cunfusing, plus the ending will make you completely wish you hadn't read it.

this book really shows you independence. and how 2 take up 4 urself.

my class and i just got done reading this novel today actually (i read a head i couldn't stand the suspense (: it is very age a appropriate this was by far the best book i have ever read the ending is also grate i would recommend this book for any ela teacher in the us i think the kids would love this book i did (:

Just spent an hour on a panel discussing this book. Avi was present and the 7th and 8th graders in attendance really understood the characters and their challenges. We discussed how there are many views of the "truth". Many were upset at the treatment of Ms. Narwin although Avi said the students usually side with Phillip.

Younger kids will probably not get the meaning of this book. How even stretching or not telling the whole truth can have devestating consequences. It's also a book about accepting responsibility for your own actions. I really enjoyed this book. I think it is a must read for middle school and up students. A good reminder for adults, too!