Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Teen sibs fall under spell of drugs come to life.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
As ROXY begins, the mystical beings who preside over the Party bet that they can choose two mortals and tempt them into drug addiction. They select Ivy and Isaac, two older teens with bright futures ahead of them. When Isaac fractures his ankle and Ivy needs help concentrating on her studies, Roxy and Addison are there to urge them to try some chemical relief.
Is It Any Good?
"High-concept" thrillers are often rewarding, and this allegorical tale of love and addiction pulls off its narrative challenges with flair. The Shustermans are known for their intricate use of theme, and Roxy gives them plenty of room to explore drug use from a variety of angles. Ivy and Isaac are compelling characters, well rounded and believable, and so are Roxy and Addison, in their own ways. Roxy is something different, not for every reader but rewarding for those who want to be challenged,
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Roxy gives personalities to various drugs, from the laid-back friendliness of alcohol to the dangerous energy of crystal meth.
Why has there been an epidemic of painkiller abuse across the nation? Who is responsible -- doctors. patients, pharmaceutical companies, politicians, parents?
Are addicts "bad" people? Is addiction a disease?
Book Details
- Authors :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , School ( High School )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : November 9, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 18
- Number of pages : 484
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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