Look, this book does what it sets out to do: it shows teen addiction in all its messy, uncomfortable reality. Amy Reed doesn't pull punches, which means you're getting a lot of drugs, sex, language, and some genuinely disturbing content along the way.
The problem is that 'unflinching' doesn't automatically equal 'good for teens.' Parent reviews are right to flag that the imagery can be jarring even for 15-year-olds without proper context. This isn't a book you hand to a curious 13-year-old—it's for older, more mature teens who are either dealing with addiction in their own lives or are emotionally equipped to process heavy content.
If your 16- or 17-year-old is ready for a raw look at rehab and recovery, this could spark important conversations. But if you're looking for a gentler entry point into discussing substance abuse, there are better options. This one's a tough read that requires a tough reader.