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Content snapshot
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Violence
Some
Self-harm depicted; no combat violence
Language
A lot
Strong profanity throughout; the teen voices are raw and authentic
Sexual Content
A lot
Sexual abuse is a backstory element for one character; teen sexual relationships are depicted; some explicit content
Substance Use
A lot
Drug and alcohol addiction as central character elements; depicted in detail
Emotional Intensity
Very heavy
Multiple suicide attempts are the premise; self-harm, severe depression, trauma, and suicidal ideation are examined with unflinching honesty throughout
What this book is about
Told in verse from three alternating perspectives, Impulse follows Conner, Vanessa, and Tony—three teenagers who ended up in a psychiatric facility after attempting suicide—as they navigate their treatment and uncover the roots of their pain. Ellen Hopkins's unflinching YA novel deals with suicide attempts, self-harm, sexual abuse, addiction, and mental illness with her trademark honesty and compassion.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
Suicide attempts are the premise
Self-harm depicted in detail
Sexual abuse backstory
Strong drug/alcohol content
For mature teens and adults only
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