Smack

Summary:

Two teens fall in love with each other and heroin. Tar has reasons for running away from home that run deep and sour, whereas Gemma, with her middle-class roots firmly on show, has a deep-rooted lust for adventure. Their first hit brings bliss, the next despair. (Summary and book cover courtesy of goodreads.com)

Review:

"Smack" is a compulsive book that digs into a realistic story behind addiction, love, friendship and the toxic realizations that come with heroin.  I read it for the first time as a kid and it was definitely the most effective anti-drug campaign for me.  What made it effective is that it potrays how easily it is to get sucked into the slippery slope of addiction.  Though the drugs are a significant portion of the story, it’s the friendship that is the main focus.  The drugs just contribute to the overall chaos and challenges.

This is not a comfortable book.  Your stomach will be in knots and preconceived notions on junkies will be both challenged and confirmed.  I’d highly recommend this book to everyone because it will teach you empathy for people you never thought you could relate to.

Warning: Contains large amounts of drug use and sexual content.

Rating: 5 stars!

Who should read it? People who aren’t afraid to give look at some hard truths and gain insight on addiction.