Language: R (91 swears, 4 ‘f'); Mature Content: G; Violence: R (gruesome ways to kill someone mentioned, detailed murder scenes committed by characters, rape mentioned, capital punishment)
BUYING ADVISORY: HS - OPTIONAL
APPEALS TO: MANY
Eternity is 18yo and on death row for aiding the murder of some extended family members and is desperate to be chosen to compete in a reality show in hopes of winning her freedom. Getting cast on the show could win her clemency from her sentence and give her the opportunity to live the life she always dreamed of outside of prison bars. The only catch, she must convince America to vote off the other 9 competing death row inmates and guarantee her freedom.
The story is told in both present and past tense, helping the reader truly understand Eternity's heart and life. The novel is full of powerful narratives that plague Eternity's mind and soul. Readers will cheer for, cry for, and become endeared to this main character and her plea to be given a chance to prove she is worth something. Every reality TV binge watcher will love this deeply human teen novel. Henry does a masterful job getting the reader inside of Eternity's head and heart. The self-talk doesn't excuse Eternity's actions, yet the truth about race and socioeconomic status is such a defining reality. I did think that the violence was a bit to bear with the age suggestion being 12-17, but I am protective of what my children read. The real world really is a tough place for a lot of people! I really enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down. The concept of a reality show freeing a death row inmate was a unique and controversial idea for sure.
Eternity is a black girl from Dallas.
S. Lewis
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