Scott By R.j. Scott, V.l. Locey -

: Hayne uses his art to process grief, and Scott slowly becomes the "light and color" that helps rebuild Hayne's world.

: Scott's parents serve as major antagonists, presenting a highly emotional barrier to his self-worth.

: The massive shift in Scott's parents' behavior and his own internal acceptance mostly happen off-screen toward the end, leaving some readers wanting more on-page development. Scott by R.J. Scott, V.L. Locey

Reviewers and readers generally praise the book for its heavy emotional pull, though some point out structural flaws: 🌟 What Readers Loved

: A hockey player for the Owatonna Eagles whose life is spiraling. Crushed by the death of his brother and facing abusive, dismissive parents who blame him for the tragedy, he turns to steroids to improve his game and win his father's approval. When his drug use is exposed, he faces expulsion from the team and is kicked out of his home. : Hayne uses his art to process grief,

: A shy, sensitive senior and talented artist who isolates himself in the back of classes. He is processing his own deep grief over the loss of a childhood friend.

The two meet during mandatory grief counseling. With Scott homeless and desperate to meet his probation terms (which include random drug testing and counseling), Hayne offers him a place to stay in his attic art studio. 🔥 Key Themes & Tropes Reviewers and readers generally praise the book for

The story follows two deeply wounded college students finding solace in one another: