ARC Review : A List of Cages by Robin Roe

Title : A List of Cages
Author : Robin Roe
Genre : YA contemporary
Release Date : January 10th, 2017
Publisher : Disney Hyperion

GOODREADS | PURCHASE

When Adam Blake lands the best elective ever in his senior year, serving as an aide to the school psychologist, he thinks he's got it made. Sure, it means a lot of sitting around, which isn't easy for a guy with ADHD, but he can't complain, since he gets to spend the period texting all his friends. Then the doctor asks him to track down the troubled freshman who keeps dodging her, and Adam discovers that the boy is Julian--the foster brother he hasn't seen in five years.

Adam is ecstatic to be reunited. At first, Julian seems like the boy he once knew. He's still kind hearted. He still writes stories and loves picture books meant for little kids. But as they spend more time together, Adam realizes that Julian is keeping secrets, like where he hides during the middle of the day, and what's really going on inside his house. Adam is determined to help him, but his involvement could cost both boys their lives.

*I got an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange of honest review. Thank you Disney Hyperion for the eARC!

When I got an email notification saying that I've been approved for this book, honestly I'm really surprised. Firstly, because Disney Hyperion usually decline my request, and secondly, because I didn't even request this book. I admit, prior to the approved email, I never even heard about this book, so I know nothing. But I decide to give it a try because of the glowing reviews on Goodreads, and it gave me a new perspective on life.

A List of Cages basically tells about the friendship between Adam--a senior with ADHD--and Julian--a freshman with dyslexia. Adam and Julian used to be foster brothers for while, after Julian's parents died in accident. But Julian soon is taken by his uncle and they lost contact, until one day, they met again at high school. I have to be honest that I didn't know much about both ADHD and dyslexia. I rarely read books that deals with it--the last time probably is Percy Jackson series, which I read a few years ago. But I think, based on my not-really-complete knowledge, it's pretty accurate, Roe's description are vivid that I felt as if I'm the one in there. Also, this book is told in both Adam and Julian's POVs, so we get to feel whatever they're feeling at the moment.

One thing that I didn't expect--though I probably should've known if I actually read the summary and not skimming it--is this book also deals with child abuse. Again, I rarely read book about child abuse--usually they're only there as backstory--and guys, it's terrifying. I've read plenty of news about child abuse, but they aren't as clear as when you read it as a novel. When I read it, I feel Julian's pain and how he endures it all this year. Not just at home, he's also getting bullied a lot at school. Julian is a really strong character since if it were me, I don't think I can make it.

Aside from Adam and Julian, I also love the secondary characters, most of which is Adam's friends. They're all supportive and welcoming toward Julian. They truly care for Julian, and I'm glad that he has someone who could look after him.

In conclusion, A List of Cages gives me a new perspective on life. I know not everyone has a loving, cheerful family, but before reading this, I don't know that it could be that terrifying. I really recommend this book, but just remember, it deals with child abuse and its descriptions are pretty vivid, so if you're not comfortable, you can skip it.