12 September 2022

I was not sure what to expect when I opened this book. It turned out to be a rather disturbing tale that looks at school bullying, gun laws in America and one fat kid who decided he has had enough. When you reach for this book you can expect an intriguing read that will keep you wondering.

The author tells the story from various characters’ points of view, allowing you to see the story unfold from different angles. This allows you to feel involved as various opinions are voiced and you are left amazed by some characters’ thought processes. The Velocity of Blood touches on some very serious issues which the author wraps into a creative tale that makes for an entertaining read.

Jack Tolleson is just another teenage boy, doing his best to keep his head down and get through each day. He is tall and overweight which makes him a target for the popular kids. Things start slowly, but before too long Jack is completely isolated. When his tears finally dry up, he is left with only anger. Jack’s anger leaves him determined to ensure that they never forget his name. No matter what, he will be remembered.

This book digs deep, I found my heart breaking for Jack. No one deserves what he had to endure. The bullies were creative and at times I was left with a guilty smile on my face. Nothing can justify what Jack ended up doing, but you are left almost understanding his actions, and that is scary.

The characters in this book were realistic and it was easy to understand the role each one played. Jack steals your heart, despite what he ends up doing. Jack’s mother, sharing her pain after the shooting makes you think twice about forming opinions about people.

As for Nick and Chris, the podcast presenters – this is why I do not listen to podcasts – is that what they are like? These two guys just irritated me. They are riding a wave but at the same time, they really do not seem to have a clue.  I did not like them at all. The author did an awesome job with these two.

Naturally, Mr Orange was the star of this book. I loved the cat and his consistent appearance which added a loving touch to the story.

This is a book that will leave you considering various issues. It’s a creative look at gun laws and the effects of bullying. While highlighting our need for an easy explanation. We want things wrapped up nice and neat, allowing us to understand why something happened. If anything, The Velocity of Blood shows that not all crimes can be predicted, not all criminals can be placed in categories and not every tragedy can be prevented.

You are embarking on a deeply moving, thought-provoking read when you reach for this book. I would recommend this one to parents with teens who enjoy a psychological thriller. Once you finish this book, you will want to take a closer look at your teen and what is going on in their lives, if not their heads.