Obviously, this is a very difficult review to write, because I didn't enjoy this book, nor do I necessarily recommend it, but I think it's incredibly important and stunningly written.

Louise O'Neill tackles an extremely difficult subject, and uses first person narration to fully immerse the reader in Emma's thoughts and feelings. I think it's also really important that O'Neill wrote characters who are not inherently likeable. Emma is vain, petty, and selfish. Her mother is self-centered, rigid, and mean. Her father is cold, weak, and frankly, a bit of an idiot. These characters are frustrating, but they're also raw and real. Even her own family and friends don't rally around Emma after her assault. She feels and is very much alone. This choice makes the story even more harrowing.

Louise O'Neill's writing is visceral, and pulls the reader in to the deepest thoughts of Emma.

Overall, this is a frustrating story. Something terrible happens and O'Neill outlines the terrible aftermath.

I think that this is a really important story for young people to read. I think it's important to read a first-person narrative of an imperfect young woman who victimized in the most atrocious way. It's important for young people to learn that no one, ever, is asking for it.