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67 pages 2 hours read

Hate List

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Jennifer Brown

Hate List

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

528

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

2000s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

In Jennifer Brown's debut novel Hate List, Valerie Leftman struggles with grief and guilt as she returns to Garvin High School months after her boyfriend, Nick Levil, committed a tragic school shooting, using their shared "hate list" to target classmates; the story unfolds through Valerie's flashbacks, exploring bullying, trauma, and the complexities of recovery. This book addresses themes such as gun violence, mental health, bullying, and trauma.

Dark

Emotional

Melancholic

Challenging

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

66,461 ratings

73%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jennifer Brown's Hate List is a thought-provoking YA novel that delves into the aftermath of a school shooting. The story is praised for its raw and realistic portrayal of grief, guilt, and healing, with well-drawn characters and a compelling narrative. However, some readers find the pacing uneven and the secondary characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's an impactful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Hate List?

A reader who would enjoy Hate List by Jennifer Brown is typically a young adult interested in contemporary fiction that tackles serious issues such as bullying, trauma, and redemption. Fans of Jay Asher’s Thirteen Reasons Why or Laurie Halse Anderson’s Speak would find this compelling narrative engaging and thought-provoking.

4.2

66,461 ratings

73%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Valerie Leftman

A 16-year-old girl who navigates the aftermath of a tragic event at her high school. She is the narrator, creatively expressing her emotions through art.

A high school junior and boyfriend of Valerie who becomes central to a catastrophic event. He struggles with bullying and personal issues.

Valerie's mother, who grapples with maintaining her family image amid marital issues and external pressures.

Valerie’s father, a lawyer who is entangled in a failing marriage and exhibits selfish tendencies.

Valerie’s younger brother, who is popular and has a different social circle from his sister.

A popular classmate of Valerie who undergoes personal growth and transformation after a significant event.

A well-loved chemistry teacher and track coach at Garvin High, known for his dedication to his students.

The principal of Garvin High, who is concerned with maintaining the school’s proper image and implementing strict policies.

Valerie’s best friend prior to a major event, they share common interests and history.

A friend within Valerie’s social circle, known for his protective nature and loyalty.

A classmate who is both a sports team captain and a past tormentor of Valerie.

Valerie’s outpatient therapist, providing guidance and support during her recovery process.

The in-patient psychiatrist working with Valerie, whose approach is more traditional and less personalized.

The school guidance counselor at Garvin High who strives to help students despite feeling overwhelmed.

An authoritarian teacher at Garvin High known for her strictness and frequent clashes with Valerie.

An influential figure in Nick’s life, contributing to his destructive behavior.

The reporter covering the Garvin High incident, representing media perspectives on tragic events.

An art teacher who helps Valerie explore creative expression as a form of therapy.

Book Details
Pages

528

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

2000s

Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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