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Content snapshot
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Violence
A lot
Violence connected to the meth drug world; child neglect and abuse are depicted
Language
A lot
Strong language throughout
Sexual Content
A lot
A romantic/sexual relationship between an adult and a child is the novel's central relationship — depicted sympathetically, which is the source of its controversy
Substance Use
Very heavy
Meth production and use are central to the world of the novel; extensive depiction of drug culture
Emotional Intensity
Very heavy
Child neglect, abuse, and an adult-child romantic relationship create extreme psychological content; the novel's framing of this relationship is deeply controversial
What this book is about
Bryn Greenwood's controversial novel follows Wavy, a child raised in a meth-producing household with neglectful and abusive parents, and her relationship with Kellen, an adult man associated with her father's drug operation. The novel depicts this relationship as protective and ultimately romantic. It has been widely challenged and banned, and is deeply controversial for portraying an adult-child relationship sympathetically. The meth culture is depicted in extensive detail. The critical debate around this novel is significant: many readers find it beautifully written; many others find the premise unacceptable. Not for most readers.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Adult-child romantic relationship depicted sympathetically — central controversy
Extensive meth culture
Child neglect and abuse
Reader Verification
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