Sticks and Stones is a dark fictional satire about school bullying and gun violence in America.

Thanks to Reedsy Discovery for this review copy!

Sticks and Stones is a dark, incisive, and biting satirical novel that delves into the harrowing realities of school bullying and gun violence in America. Through its often uncomfortable narrative, the book paints a vivid picture of the toxic environments that can emerge in schools and the devastating consequences that follow when these issues are left unchecked. It also describes a chilling portrayal of the lengths to which individuals can be pushed.

Set against the backdrop of a fictional American high school, the story follows a group of students and faculty as they navigate a toxic environment rife with intimidation, cruelty, and a pervasive sense of danger. Through a blend of sharp wit and grim realism, the author exposes the systemic issues that allow such behaviors to fester, making a powerful commentary on the societal and institutional failures that contribute to these problems.

The characters are exaggerated, vividly drawn, and easily recognizable. each embodying different facets of the issue. From the bullies who thrive on fear to the victims struggling to be heard, as well as the ineffectual adults who fail to protect them, a complex array of perspectives challenges readers to confront their views on these pressing issues. The satire is both scathing and reflective, offering moments of dark humor while never losing sight of the gravity of the subject matter. Regardless of their satirical makeup, the characters are deeply relatable, representing various archetypes found in American schools.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its ability to provoke thought and discussion. It invites readers to consider the broader implications of the problems depicted. The pacing of the novel is relentless, with tension building as the narrative unfolds. The author’s ability to tell the story from various perspectives creates a multi-faceted portrayal of the issues at hand. The narrative style balances bleakness with moments of sharp, dark humor.

The story does not shy away from the harsh realities of modern-day school environments. The vicious cycle of bullying is both raw and unflinchingly honest, capturing the emotional and psychological torment that victims endure. The destructive potential of social media is placed front and center, illustrating the havoc that can be wreaked by a simple photo or thoughtfully crafted sentence.

However, the book’s sharp satire might not be for everyone. The thinly disguised caricatures (arrogant Republicans, left-leaning Democrats, bullied high school senior with access to guns) create an in-your-face attitude. (This distracted me from the plot at times, as I mulled over the thoughts and actions of the President, his toadies, the fresh-faced teacher, etc.)

Sticks and Stones is a powerful exploration of America’s darker aspects of school life. This dark satire is not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to confront its harsh truths, it is a profoundly necessary work. Its unflinching portrayal of violence and the psychological toll of bullying can be difficult to digest. Yet, it is precisely this raw honesty that makes it such a compelling read. It is a novel that stays with you long after the final page, provoking thought and discussion. The author’s goal is to illuminate the urgent need for change in how we address bullying and gun violence in society.

Caveat: triggers include violent thoughts and actions, bullying, ethnic slurs, and mild sexuality.

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