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A review by wastingtime1994
That's Not What Happened by Kody Keplinger
challenging
dark
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This is, unsurprisingly, a difficult book to read. But more surprisingly, it’s a difficult book to finish.
The “big twist” is hyped up far too much in the beginning - to the point where I nearly forgot there was a plot to begin with. When it’s revealed halfway through, the entire book loses steam. I dragged myself to the end, and while I’m happy I did, it looked bleak for a moment.
The timeline can also be confusing, as it jumps between different years with little explanation or warning.
However, overall I would recommend it. It’s very reflective regarding the resilience of teenagers, the impacts of PTSD, the importance (or not?) of the truth, and the reality of religion in America. 3.5/5.0
The “big twist” is hyped up far too much in the beginning - to the point where I nearly forgot there was a plot to begin with. When it’s revealed halfway through, the entire book loses steam. I dragged myself to the end, and while I’m happy I did, it looked bleak for a moment.
The timeline can also be confusing, as it jumps between different years with little explanation or warning.
However, overall I would recommend it. It’s very reflective regarding the resilience of teenagers, the impacts of PTSD, the importance (or not?) of the truth, and the reality of religion in America. 3.5/5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Death, Gun violence, Panic attacks/disorders, Violence, Mass/school shootings, and Murder
Moderate: Gore, Mental illness, Vomit, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Suicide and Religious bigotry