Tap Out

There are very few books that reel me in on the first page. However, this story and its characters hooked me from the very beginning and never let go. Not only was this a gritty look at some of the undesirable parts of the American culture that are often purposefully ignored; it was also a time honored story of conflict and decisions. Good versus evil, right versus wrong and all the gray and indifferent places in between. Unfortunately for Tony the main character in this book, the decisions he faces are more pressured and life altering because of his socioeconomic status. The author also creates the supporting characters so colorfully that the reader feels a vested interest for each one as Tony's story unfolds. I will admit that the read was difficult at times. I shut down at 3am with only a chapter to go only to wake up 15 minutes later and finish the book. My recommendation for this book would be any teenager or young adult that would ever dare to complain about their existence in a white collar neighborhood to elicit some empathy towards their less fortunate peers. It would also be a suggested read for those less fortunate peers to elicit hope to find a way out. Great Job Eric keep up the good work!

i really enjoyed this book. The challenges the young men face in this story are very real. it was well written and kept me entertained. i only ordered the book because the author is from the same area as myself and i saw an interview on TV. i felt i should review it so others can enjoy.

Eric Devine's TAP OUT is a searing, unforgettable read. When I compare TAP OUT to S.E. Hinton's groundbreaking THE OUTSIDERS, I do not do so lightly. This book is absolutely amazing.Tony Antioch is a 17 year old facing decisions that no person of any age should have to make. Trapped by circumstances wholly outside of his control, Tony is representative of countless real-life young adults dealing with unimaginable horrors. This book should be required reading for anyone working with impoverished, disenfranchised youth. Even though it's fiction, it will give insight into what many of our students are dealing with. In reading TAP OUT, I was reminded of a speech given by one of the original Freedom Writers, when he explained that so many school days when he didn't have his homework, it was because he had been up all night taking care of his mother after she was beaten nearly to death by his father. As a teacher, I hope that TAP OUT will open some hearts to what others endure on a daily basis; as a reader, I found TAP OUT to be a heart-pounding piece of extraordinary fiction! Looking forward to more from Eric Devine.

I would recommend this for ALL parents, teachers,social workers -- heck, even parole officers-- anyone who works with challenging young men. As a former challenging young man, I was keenly aware that the adults around me had no idea what was going through my brain. Devine, however, does.If you have a child who is a relctuant reader, he will read this. It is "gritty," as others have said, but it rings true and does not stoop to preconceived ideas of youthful thinking. It stands up and says You Are Not Alone. After reading, I bought one for each of my nephews and one for my classroom's indie reading shelf.

This book is a must read for anyone who ever felt they had no choices in life. This book willMake readers realize there are always choices to be made. The last chapter brings this sharply into focus. It will leave you breathless. Well done Mr Devine! I cant wait for your next book.

Devine is a talented author that takes you inside the world of those on the fringes. This book hit me like a ton of bricks. I recommend this to everyone that wants to understand "how the other half lives". I just can't stop thinking about this book!

I let my 12 year old daughter read this. Maybe I don't get the mother of the year award, but the message in it is important. Thanks for shipping on time. I read it myself. Good book.

This book is not for young adults; it's not adults; it's for the trash bin. It's like the foul author came up with a story just so he could say a bunch of curse words. The fact it is 4 stars reflects the depraved state of our culture and probably the author. May God help him and our youth!