Breathing Underwater
Alex Flinn
Breathing underwater is a suprisingly good book. The story is about 16 year old Nick. On the surface he has everything anyone could ever want. He's good looking, popular, rich and smart. Underneath the surface Nick's father is abusive, unfortunately for Nick he has inherited not only his fathers looks but also his abusive personality. The story picks up when Nick is in court, his ex-girlfriend Cat has just filed for a restraining order. As Nick's story continues, we follow him through the process of admitting he has a problem and how he begins to deal with. This all takes place parallel with the events that lead up to Cat's leaving him and getting a restraining order.
I was honestly surprised at exactly how good this book was. I was expecting a decent but not great read. Instead I got a deep, revealing and meaningful look into the mind of a fictional abuser. I found it incredibly hard to put the book down. I can honestly say: "READ THIS!"
Breathing underwater also teaches us the most common signs of an abusive relationship. The book taught me warning signs, some I did already know others I didn't. Basically if your boyfriend/girlfriend acts anything like Nick, RUN for it and DON'T look back! Seriously though, read this book. I promise you won't regret it!
