Controlled

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk ME, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: December 12, 2014

Review

Rachel's cousin Misty comes to live with her, completely disrupting her plans for junior year. The two don't know each other, and could not be more different. Where Rachel is focused and serious about her studies, Misty has only known the chaos of a drug addicted mother (now deceased), and lives only for the present. She rebels against the rules of her new home, is eventually sent to Rondo, the alternative high school, before being sent to a psychiatric hospital.

Having two very different characters offers broader possibilities of identity for readers. Told from Rachel's point of view, we see her begin to expand her perspective and begin caring about Misty. Teen drinking and sexual experimentation are briefly mentioned. There is minimal character development. The adults are flat, not recognizing Misty's need to grieve the loss of her mother, and unable to reach her in any way before sending her to the hospital. The definition of Borderline Personality Disorder is vague enough that many teens may self-diagnose inaccurately. The passage of time is unclear and the pacing unbelievable, as Misty admits cutting herself to Rachel on her second day. Short chapters and an easy reading level will help weaker teen readers stay engaged. A brief author note about Borderline Personality Disorder does not explain "dialectical behavior therapy" which Misty undergoes.

Part of the Alternative series, about students at Rondo Alternative High School.

Overall Book Score: good