|
 |
St. Michael's Scales
Neil Connelly Scholastic, Inc © 2002 |
St. Michael’s Scales is a book about a boy named Keegan who wants to kill himself. His mother is in a mental hospital, his oldest brother has run away, his two other brothers are in college and his dad doesn’t talk to him much. He also has a twin brother who died at birth. Keegan believes that he is the reason of his brother Michael’s death. His brother “talks” to him during the book telling him to kill himself, that it was supposed to be Keegan that died not Michael. So, on his 16th birthday, Keegan plans to kill himself. During the days leading up to his suicide, Keegan makes friends with people who never would have talked to him before. He joins the wrestling team, where at one point in time, he is able to block out his brother Michael. As the book comes down to his last day on Earth, Keegan must make a decision whether he wants to stay on earth or end his life. All in all it is a good book.
This book is a book that would suit kids from grades 9-12. It is a great book to read although it is very dark. It makes you think about life and why you are here. This book deals with very serious subjects that would go over someone’s head who is not in the High School. However, the book is fast moving and it keeps you at the edge of your seat. It is a very good book.
~ Vincent Calautti, grade 9, Boardman High School