I need these characters injected into my bloodstream. I love, love, LOVE that each character has their own voice. Gibsie, the man that you are. Oh my… I have to admit, this was just kind of a “let me see what the fuss” is kind of read…I’ve actually never heard about it until recently. Anyway, being in my 30s haaaaa, I haven’t really read anything YA in a good minute but oh man I’m so glad I picked up this book. Helps a bit that the book actually came out around the time I was their age anyway (that’s how I’m justifying things, leave me be lads) I’m already on Saving 13…Chloe Walsh, you officially have me wrapped around your creative little finger. I am crying. I am laughing. I am falling in love and rooting for these kids so, so bad. I’m trying my best to get my internal reading voice into a fine Cork accent…we’re having a great time over here (before you ask no, the accent isn’t going too great but we’re trying here girls). While this story definitely deals with a good amount of trauma, I’m just so happy to go along with these characters on their day-to-day. Shannon, Johnny, Joey, Aofie, Gibsie, Claire-Bear, MAMMY K…can you all just keep me in your pockets and bring me everywhere you are? That’s where I want to be, that’s all I’m asking. Shannon, you have such a road ahead of you and I’m honoured that we’re allowed to trod along and see how you grow. When you’re scared, I’m scared. When you’re happy, I’m beaming. When you momentarily find some confidence, I’m cheering so loud. When you go back into your shell…you know what, fck it, I’m still cheering for you. Johnny……bulldozer. But you know what, that’s who you are. That’s what’s needed. Maybe not the situation, maybe not everyone involved, but it’s what Shannon needs. And as we well know, that’s all you really care about so, gold star to you. Gibsie…dude give me a call in like 5 years. The crush that I’m building over here is insane. I love my shy boys but you have a very special place in my heart, uuuuuugh.