Book Review: The Rules of Survival

The Rules of Survival by Nancy Werlin

SUMMARY: Narrated by 17-year-old Matt as a letter to his youngest sister, Emmy, The Rules of Survival is his effort to come to terms with the vicious treatment he and his two sisters suffered at the hands of Nikki, their beautiful and unpredictable mother. As much as he fears her manic highs and lows, his greater concern as he grows older is for the safety of his sisters. Compounding the problem are the adults in their lives--their father and their aunt--who recognize Nikki's instability but find it easier to look the other way. When Nikki's ex-boyfriend Murdoch befriends the children, they want to believe that a more normal future is possible, but are afraid of being disappointed by an adult yet again. The characters captivate readers from the beginning, and short, terse chapters move the plot along with an intensity that will appeal to seasoned Werlin fans and reluctant readers alike. Teens will empathize with these siblings and the secrets they keep in this psychological horror story. (from the School Library Journal review)

OPINION: This book was a National Book Award finalist, and it is easy to understand why. Without being graphic or melodramatic, the author manages to convey a picture of life with an abusive parent that is both perceptive and horrifying. Matt's mother, Nikki, is selfish and childish at best, manipulative and cruel at worst. In a frightening example, she pulls the car into lanes of oncoming traffic to force her kids to declare their love for her. If you are a fan of A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer or if you like suspenseful thrillers, this book's for you.