NONFICTION

Second Chance

by Ryan TROUTMAN
281p. ebook available. Jozef Syndicate. Sept. 2016. pap. $15. ISBN 9781944155216.
COPY ISBN
Gr 9 Up—Troutman was just 16 years old when he was thrown from his friend's Camaro. He survived despite sustaining a traumatic brain injury. This memoir pays homage to the dedicated people who aided Troutman in relearning basic tasks like how to speak. While this work is neatly organized, starting with the accident and ending with his mid-20s, the lack of style in its delivery hinders its ability to appeal to a wider audience. The book's refreshingly positive perspective is stunted by its unnecessary repetition and slow pacing. However, Troutman is not heavy-handed, nor does he continually refer to the accident; instead he focuses on the perseverance needed for recuperation and the obstacles to recovery. Intermittent reflections offer bright moments and emphasize Troutman's positive outlook.
VERDICT Struggling teens seeking hope or the belief that a second chance is available will value this personal story of a teen who endured a life-altering injury.
Reviewed by Alicia Abdul, Albany High School Library, NY , Nov 01, 2016

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