Viral

by Alex Van Tol

Overview

Mike has fallen deeply in love with his best friend, Lindsay. And he's pretty sure she feels the same way…until a simple misunderstanding destroys Lindsay's trust. Devastated and feeling betrayed, Lindsay leaves town for the summer. In the fall, she returns to school a different person and she's suddenly tight with the "in" crowd.

When Lindsay gets intoxicated at a party and ends up in a compromising situation, she has no idea that someone is filming the whole thing on his phone. When the footage goes viral around their school, Mike has to dig deep within himself to find the courage to help Lindsay in her time of greatest need.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781459827400
Publisher:	Orca Book Publishers
Publication date:	09/22/2020
Series:	Orca Soundings Series
Pages:	128
Product dimensions:	5.00(w) x 7.50(h) x 0.32(d)
Age Range:	12 - 17 Years

About the Author

Alex Van Tol grew up reading a wide range of books, from Enid Blyton to Stephen King. She taught middle school for eight years, then made the switch to writing for a living. She has published numerous titles with Orca. Alex lives in Victoria, British Columbia, with her family. For more information, visit www.alexvantol.com.

Read an Excerpt

Suddenly I'm angry. Really angry. I bounce off the door frame and grab him again. He throws my hands off. With a solid crunch, he slams his shoulder into my chest and sends me flying.

Down the stairs.

Editorial Reviews

"A good title for reluctant readers, especially boys. This short, soap-opera like novel is timely, fast-paced and interesting...Today's teens will be able to relate to all the technology used by the characters...A good starting off place for discussion."

BookLinx

"Lots to like here—the story is easy to follow and full of ripped from the headlines issues. I especially liked Mike's willingness to ask his mom for advice and for her non-judgmental, love and logic responses."

Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children's Media

"Any reader will be able to relate to this story through its fast paced storyline and interesting plot, and it will not only captivate reluctant readers, but all readers across all spectrums. Van Tol's use of technology within the story aids the plot and adds to the horror within the novel, as Mike's peers misuse technology to destroy another. I was captivated by this novel, and the ending was phenomenal! I highly recommend this for all reluctant readers, but advise everyone to read it as the interest level and moral themes are for everyone. Five stars."

Bookvacations.wordpress.com

"Packed with violent drama, this entry in Orca's Soundings line of books for reluctant readers is intense...Many teens will be drawn to the contemporary high-school story about enemies, friends, and lovers that explores headline issues."

Booklist

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The Horn Book Guide

Mike Mullens and Lindsay have been best friends since childhood. Once in high school the two friends begin to form stronger feelings for one another but are unable to express them. Fighting the feeling of shyness, Mike attempts to tell Lindsay just how he feels during a party. Instead, a misunderstanding takes place that leaves Lindsay unable to trust her lifelong friend. As the new school year begins Mike is introduced to a new Lindsay who chases after boys and parties with the wrong crowd. As Lindsay spirals out of control Mike stays close to his friend allowing him to help pick up the pieces after a party of drinking and a drug that leads to a video of Lindsay being raped which causes life changing results. Readers are introduced to the reality of underage drinking and effects of drugs while being shown what it really means to be a true friend. Reviewer: BriAnne Baxley, MLIS

Children's Literature - BriAnne Baxley MLIS