Every Last Word

Sam, one of the popular girls, hides that she has OCD which can consume her thoughts. She is questioning her values and friendships when she meets Caroline, who introduces her to a secret poetry group where she meets a boy she used to bully, they develop a relationship, and Sam begins to feel more 'normal' and in control. This novel for grades 11-12 deals with very real teenage issues, including bullying, body image, and friendship. Suitable for lit circles, creative writing, and independent study, the novel realistically and sensitively portrays mental illness and being different, and challenges students to consider situations and what their own choices might be.