Closer to Nowhere ~ Ellen Hopkins

If you’re like me, and already thinking about your Christmas wishlist, this book should definitely be on it.

Each page of Closer to Nowhere, drew me in more and more. Unexpected twists and turns were coupled with poignant character development, making it impossible to put down.  Because it is written in verse, this is a story students can fly through, and when paired with the right personality, this book will be a huge hit in your classroom.  It’s a must-read for teachers, too.

Hannah Lincoln’s picture perfect childhood is suddenly smashed to pieces when her (practically) orphaned cousin, Calvin, moves in and starts to go to school with her. Calvin is not like most middle schoolers. He has something called PTSD, and has outbursts that often result in him screaming or running away. He also plays pranks--lots of them--and Hannah is usually his target. 

Since Cal moved in, Hannah’s parents fight all the time, and her dad seems to spend more late nights and weekends working. Through it all, Hannah’s mom is endlessly patient with Cal, and Hannah can’t seem to understand why. But slowly, the facts about Calvin’s past life--when he lived with his mom and criminal father--start to emerge. 

Hannah feels torn, daily, between her resentment toward Cal and her sympathy for all he endured and still experiences. Does Cal deserve so many second chances? And will Hannah’s family survive much longer under the stress of having him at home? 

Buy it here!

Maturity: 2/4

This novel is ideal for age 12+. The majority of this novel is very appropriate for all middle schoolers, but there are several mature scenes/descriptions. Calvin’s descriptions of his past life include his parents’ drug and alcohol abuse, domestic violence, and a description of child abuse (Cal recalls being locked in a closet). An active shooter lockdown also takes place at the end of the book. However, all of these events are described through the eyes of a 12-year-old, and despite the mature content, I feel that many middle school students can handle it. 

Pages: 405

Lexile: N/A

This novel is written in verse, so it will be a quick read. However, it may not be a good choice for struggling readers. It switches back and forth between Hannah’s and Calvin’s perspectives, which may be confusing for some students. The nature of verse writing can also be challenging for struggling readers. It is highly engaging, though, so I would recommend it to reluctant readers! 

Happy Reading!

♥ Kara & Riley