Common Sense Media Review
By Kate Pavao
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Realistic portrayal of a teen committed to killing herself.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 3 parent reviews
Based on 17 kid reviews
Kids say the book deeply resonates with readers who have experienced bullying and suicidal thoughts, providing a poignant exploration of mental health and the struggles faced by young people. However, it carries content that might be triggering for some, and while it offers educational insights on the seriousness of these issues, it also risks glorifying self-harm, leading to mixed feelings about its overall message.
- powerful storytelling
- relatable experiences
- educational value
- triggering content
- maturity required
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
When depressed Daelyn stumbles upon a mysterious website called \"Through-the-Light,\" she is given 23 days to decide if she really wants to kill herself. The site asks her questions that help her reflect on her decision (For example, \"Who will help you through the darkness?\"). The site also provides her a community where she can vent t her problems (and read what other suicidal users have to say). But as she is preparing herself to leave this world, she makes a surprising connection with an offbeat boy with a secret of his own. Suddenly, she has to rethink everything.
Is It Any Good?
Daelyn is a realistic character whom readers will empathize with. The author makes her tragic story come to life, even when using devices that could easily fall flat (like chat board discussions). Her relationship with Santana seems a little too well timed. But, ultimately, this book will certainly give readers a lot to contemplate, especially its open-ended conclusion.
This author is known for teen books that push the envelope on edgy subject matter. Of course, sadly, it could certainly resonate with some teens for the wrong reasons.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the website Daelyn visits. It tells users "self-termination is your right." Do you agree or disagree with this attitude? Should websites that support dangerous behaviors -- like suicide, anorexia, or cutting -- be allowed to operate?
Dealyn is a target of cyberbullying, something that happens to 43 percent of kids. Ask your teens if they've ever gotten -- or sent -- a hurtful message online. What happened? You may want to review Common Sense Media's article about protecting kids from cyberbullying.
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Coming of Age
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Hyperion Books for Children
- Publication date : January 5, 2010
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 17
- Number of pages : 224
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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