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Hate List summary
Brief summary
Hate List by Jennifer Brown tells the gripping story of a high school girl named Valerie who grapples with guilt and grief after her boyfriend carries out a school shooting. It explores themes of bullying, forgiveness, and the power of empathy.
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Hate List
Summary of key ideas
The Genesis of Hate
In Hate List by Jennifer Brown, we are introduced to Valerie Leftman, a high school student who is grappling with the aftermath of a school shooting. The story begins with Valerie's return to school after a summer of seclusion, following the tragic event where her boyfriend, Nick Levil, opened fire in the school cafeteria. Valerie, who was shot while trying to stop Nick, is now dealing with the guilt and confusion of being both a victim and an accomplice.
As the narrative unfolds, we learn that Valerie and Nick had created a 'hate list' together, a notebook filled with the names of people and things they despised. This list, initially a form of harmless venting, had turned into a deadly tool for Nick, who used it to select his targets during the shooting. Valerie, who had no idea about Nick's sinister intentions, is now left to grapple with the fact that she had unknowingly contributed to the tragedy.
Dealing with the Aftermath
Throughout Hate List, we witness Valerie's struggle to come to terms with her role in the shooting. She is ostracized by her peers, labeled as an accomplice, and faces the wrath of the victims' families. Her own family is fractured, with her mother unable to cope with the situation and her younger brother, who was also injured in the shooting, struggling with his own trauma.
Valerie's only solace comes from her sessions with Dr. Hieler, the school counselor, who encourages her to express her feelings through a journal. Through these journal entries, we gain insight into Valerie's complex emotions, her deep love for Nick, and her overwhelming guilt. She grapples with the question of whether she could have prevented the tragedy and whether she should have seen the warning signs in Nick's behavior.
Seeking Redemption
As the story progresses, Valerie begins to confront her past and seek redemption. She starts by reaching out to the families of the victims, attempting to apologize and explain her innocence. She also forms an unexpected friendship with a girl named Jessica, who was shot during the incident and is now wheelchair-bound. Through their bond, Valerie gains a new perspective on the tragedy and begins to heal.
Simultaneously, Valerie faces the challenge of testifying against Nick, who survived the shooting and is now standing trial. Her conflicting emotions towards Nick, the boy she once loved and the perpetrator of the horrific act, add another layer of complexity to her journey of redemption.
Embracing Forgiveness and Moving Forward
In the final part of Hate List, we witness Valerie's pivotal moment of acceptance and forgiveness. She realizes that while she cannot change the past, she can choose how to move forward. She decides to honor the victims by living a meaningful life and advocating for mental health awareness and gun control.
Valerie's journey in Hate List is a poignant exploration of guilt, grief, and the complexities of human emotions. By the end of the novel, she emerges as a resilient and compassionate young woman, determined to make a positive impact despite the tragic events that have shaped her. The story ends with a sense of hope, as Valerie takes her first steps towards a new beginning.
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What is Hate List about?
Hate List (2009) by Jennifer Brown is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the aftermath of a school shooting. When high school student Valerie is implicated in a tragedy that she never intended to happen, she grapples with grief, guilt, and the complexities of her relationship with the shooter. As she navigates the repercussions of the event, Valerie learns about forgiveness, healing, and the power of empathy.
Hate List Review
Hate List (2009) by Jennifer Brown is an intriguing novel that explores the aftermath of a school shooting. Here are three reasons why this book is a must-read:
- The story delves deep into the complex emotions and psychological impact of the event, offering a thought-provoking exploration of grief, guilt, and forgiveness.
- The inclusion of journal entries, news articles, and police interviews adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, creating a compelling reading experience.
- Through the main character's journey of self-discovery and redemption, the book challenges readers to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the power of empathy and understanding.
Who should read Hate List?
- Readers interested in exploring the complex issues of school violence and its aftermath
- Those who appreciate thought-provoking and emotionally impactful stories
- Individuals who want to gain empathy and understanding for the experiences of others
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Hate List FAQs
What is the main message of Hate List?
The main message of Hate List is a powerful exploration of the consequences of bullying and the importance of empathy.
How long does it take to read Hate List?
The reading time for Hate List varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours to read. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Hate List a good book? Is it worth reading?
Hate List is a moving and thought-provoking book that addresses important social issues. It's definitely worth reading for its impactful storytelling and engaging characters.
Who is the author of Hate List?
The author of Hate List is Jennifer Brown.
What to read after Hate List?
If you're wondering what to read next after Hate List, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright