Impulse, Ellen Hopkins

Impulse. The one-word title is striking and sudden, like a gasp in the winter, filling your lungs with a chilling sensation of wonder and curiosity. In the story, there are three stories, three paths, three characters. The characters and their stories are all different, but their pain is a common denominator, between them and anyone who is human. This novel tells the gutsy story, not long ago thought taboo. Of what really goes on in the minds of adolescents. Tony is a drug addicted lad with a childhood like Maury has never seen. His troubles with his sexuality and his past make him an easily related to, vulnerable character we can all find solace in. Vanessa is an attractive girl with a pretty smile, who knows how pretty the smile of the blade is. Her father is in the armed forces, and her mother was a schizophrenic, suffering from hallucinations and double personalities varying like the flick of a switch. Conner, is a stereotyped pretty boy with a wealthy family who seems to have the perfect life. Looking closer, there's such an array of problems, dating back to when he was a toddler, his attempt at suicide is easily rationalized.
The three meet at 'Aspen Springs', a psychiatric hospital for those who have attempted suicide. Tony, by overdose, Vanessa by blade, Conner by gun. They all receive a second chance, and upon meeting seek to save each other. The book is told in prose-poetry, metaphors and similes grace the page with vicious impact. The book is 666 pages, though don't be fooled, it could be read in a day. The twists and turns, and reality of the book shake you right where you stand. The story is hypnotic and the outcome is horrifyingly enticing. This book is so tasteful and honest, it's scary. Hopkins's writing is dark and comic. Raw and true, the novel will capture you and by its nooks and crannies of brilliant, thundering genius you will be forever changed. Don't fight your impulse to get your hands on this book, and witness the magic that is Ellen Hopkins. After reading 'Impulse', i had a revelation, contemplating how deeply our childhood affects who we are. Each hero/heroine was pained because of something that happened or didn't happen in the past, and how it made them who they are. Cause and Effect, i suppose. Impulses have consequences, and no blade, bottle, or bullet can cure you of loneliness.