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528
Novel • Fiction
2000s
2009
YA
14-18 years
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
66,461 ratings
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Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
66,461 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Nick Levil
A high school junior and boyfriend of Valerie who becomes central to a catastrophic event. He struggles with bullying and personal issues.
Jenny Leftman
Valerie's mother, who grapples with maintaining her family image amid marital issues and external pressures.
Ted Leftman
Valerie’s father, a lawyer who is entangled in a failing marriage and exhibits selfish tendencies.
Frankie Leftman
Valerie’s younger brother, who is popular and has a different social circle from his sister.
Jessica Campbell
A popular classmate of Valerie who undergoes personal growth and transformation after a significant event.
Morris Kline
A well-loved chemistry teacher and track coach at Garvin High, known for his dedication to his students.
Jack Angerson
The principal of Garvin High, who is concerned with maintaining the school’s proper image and implementing strict policies.
Stacey Brinks
Valerie’s best friend prior to a major event, they share common interests and history.
Duce
A friend within Valerie’s social circle, known for his protective nature and loyalty.
Christy Bruter
A classmate who is both a sports team captain and a past tormentor of Valerie.
Dr. Rex Hieler
Valerie’s outpatient therapist, providing guidance and support during her recovery process.
Dr. Dentley
The in-patient psychiatrist working with Valerie, whose approach is more traditional and less personalized.
Mrs. Tate
The school guidance counselor at Garvin High who strives to help students despite feeling overwhelmed.
Mrs. Tennille
An authoritarian teacher at Garvin High known for her strictness and frequent clashes with Valerie.
Jeremy Watson
An influential figure in Nick’s life, contributing to his destructive behavior.
Angela Dash
The reporter covering the Garvin High incident, representing media perspectives on tragic events.
Bea
An art teacher who helps Valerie explore creative expression as a form of therapy.
528
Novel • Fiction
2000s
2009
YA
14-18 years
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