Description
At fifteen, Ethan is on the fast track to nowhere. In and out of group homes and constantly in trouble, Ethan is fighting to find a sense of who he is. After breaking into an amusement park and being savaged by a police dog, he is befriended by a paramedic. Offered a choice of court or going on a ride-along in an ambulance, Ethan takes what he thinks is the easy way out. On Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, Ethan comes face to face with the horrific truth from his past and must learn to deal with where he came from—and where he is going.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 12 to 18
- Grade:
- 8 to 12
- Reading age:
- 12 to 18
Awards
- Short-listed, YALSA Quick Picks
- Commended, CCBC Best Books
Editorial Reviews
"Heavy topics of drug abuse, prostitution, and murder make this a gritty and gripping story."
— The Horn Book Guide
"While a story of tough kids in a tough situation, this is also a story of hope and an unlikely friendship."
— KLIATT
"Any teens who are fans of gritty, realistic fiction will enjoy this short novel."
— Resource Links
"The characters are believable and compelling. The plot moves at a fast pace. Moreover, the graphic descriptions of ambulance calls make this book an excellent suggestion for male reluctant readers."
— South Western Ohio Young Adult Materials Review Group
"[A] captivating main character and excellently-paced plot. Highly Recommended."
— CM Magazine
