this is where it ends is a book written by Marieke Nijkamp and is based on the fictional lives of Tómas, Claire, Sylv, and Autumn. Or more specifically, how they all relate in some way or another to a school shooter who’s only motive is to get revenge on those who wronged him. Thematic concepts are mainly highlighting those of hopefulness, gratitude within tragedy, and persistence in light of calamity.
When the book was over, least to say I had mixed reactions. It pulled me in from the very beginning with setting the stage, beginning of events, and the whirlwind of anticipation and emotions that took place. But as the book continued, events and overall passion started to dissipate. The events that should have kept me on the edge of my seat wanting to read more, didn’t warrant the same effect on me that they should have. Therefore, when I finished reading, I was left ultimately thinking “That’s it?”. However, I shouldn’t be too harsh because school shootings are real life events that can harm and drastically change the lives of those not only in the school but even simply relating to it. Consequently, narrating, let alone writing about those events can prove extremely difficult and often full of emotion and hardship which the author demonstrates with grace.
When I was asked to rate this book, although it’s not a 5 / 5 or landing on the Golden Potatoes page, the book had a very solid beginning and did include some great plot twists. The ending however, left much more to be desired therefore I give it a 3 / 5.
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