Candy

“[A] provocative, suspenseful work . . . the story plays skillfully to teens’ curiosity about the mechanics of addiction and its manic, lurid subculture.” —BooklistWhen Joe meets Candy, it seems like a regular boy-meets-girl scenario. They chat over coffee, she gives him her number, and he writes her a song. But then Joe is drawn into Candy’s world—a world of drugs, violence, and desperation. As the dark truth about Candy’s life emerges, Joe finds himself facing real danger at every twist and turn. Soon Joe’s conflicting emotions begin to mirror Candy’s, and he understands that falling in love just might be worth the struggle. This intoxicating tale of heartache, danger, and hope will enthrall teen readers.“A story as sharp as the title is sweet, with something dark lurking inside and no cozy answers . . . Some words of warning: Candy may hook you too.” —The Guardian“Versatile English author Brooks infuses his latest tale with a romantic—even mythic—grandeur sure to enthrall his fans . . . This story’s gritty street smarts will keep thrill-seekers more than entertained, while Joe’s orphic rescue mission into the netherworld of addiction gives more thoughtful readers plenty to ponder.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)“Brooks’s plotting is masterful, and the action twists and builds to a frenzied and violent climax.” —School Library Journal“Brooks is one of the best young adult writers around. Get this book. Word-of-mouth will do the rest” —The Irish Times