This story is confronting and realistic, highlighting important issues of ongoing racism and prejudice towards Aboriginal youth and the challenges of the youth justice system. The plot is effectively constructed to build a nuanced and rounded sense of character for Jamie. The car chase scene is written with dramatic effect – Jamie and his friends are swept up in a series of questionable decisions leading to a wild, dangerous pursuit by police in a stolen car, with Justin Bieber blaring – but the fun quickly turns into fear, with devastating consequences.
Flashbacks develop the reader’s understanding of Jamie’s home life and family dynamics. In addition, free verse poetry artfully expresses his complex feelings in juvenile detention, showing his growth and transformation. He learns to process his reality and express himself honestly, forging a sense of hope for the future as he nurtures his creative talent. This book is a powerful and compelling read, with great potential as a classroom novel for the middle to upper end of the readership.