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Impulse summary
Brief summary
Impulse by Ellen Hopkins is a gripping novel that delves into the lives of three teenagers struggling with their own personal demons. It explores themes of mental illness, addiction, and the power of human connection.
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Impulse
Summary of key ideas
Struggles and Recovery
In Impulse by Ellen Hopkins, we are introduced to three teenagers, Vanessa, Tony, and Conner, who are admitted to a psychiatric hospital after attempting suicide. The story is told in verse, allowing us to delve deep into the minds of these characters and understand their struggles.
Vanessa, a beautiful and intelligent girl, is haunted by her traumatic past. She has been sexually abused by her father, and her mother, who is aware of the abuse, chooses to ignore it. Vanessa's self-harm is her way of coping with the pain and anger she feels towards her parents.
Tony, on the other hand, is a drug addict. His addiction stems from his troubled childhood, where he was neglected by his parents. Tony's drug use is his way of escaping reality and numbing the pain he feels. However, his overdose attempt lands him in the psychiatric hospital, forcing him to confront his issues.
Confronting Inner Demons
Conner, the third protagonist, is a popular and seemingly perfect high school student. However, he is secretly battling depression. His suicide attempt is triggered by his inability to cope with the pressure to live up to his parents' expectations. Conner's journey in the hospital is about accepting his mental illness and seeking help.
As the story progresses, the three characters form a bond, finding solace in each other's company. They attend therapy sessions, confront their inner demons, and slowly start to heal. Vanessa learns to forgive herself, Tony acknowledges his addiction, and Conner accepts his depression.
Challenges and Progress
Despite their progress, the road to recovery is not easy. Vanessa struggles with her feelings for Tony, who is also attracted to her. Their relationship is complicated by Tony's addiction and Vanessa's fear of intimacy due to her past trauma. Conner, too, faces setbacks when his parents refuse to acknowledge his mental illness.
However, the trio continues to support each other. They participate in group therapy, share their stories, and offer each other strength and understanding. Their journey is a testament to the healing power of friendship and the importance of seeking help for mental health issues.
Hope and New Beginnings
As the novel nears its end, we witness the characters' growth. Vanessa finds the courage to report her father's abuse, Tony acknowledges his addiction and commits to sobriety, and Conner gains the confidence to stand up to his parents and seek professional help for his depression.
In the final chapters of Impulse, the three protagonists are discharged from the hospital. They leave with a newfound sense of hope and determination to live their lives to the fullest. While their journey is far from over, they are now equipped with the tools to face their challenges and embrace their futures.
In conclusion, Impulse is a powerful exploration of mental health, trauma, and the road to recovery. Through the intertwined stories of Vanessa, Tony, and Conner, Ellen Hopkins delivers a poignant message about the importance of seeking help, the healing power of friendship, and the possibility of a brighter future, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
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What is Impulse about?
Impulse by Ellen Hopkins delves into the lives of three troubled teenagers who end up in a psychiatric facility after attempting suicide. Through poetic verse, Hopkins explores their inner struggles, their bond with one another, and their journey towards healing and self-discovery. A raw and powerful read that sheds light on mental health and the importance of seeking help.
Impulse Review
Impulse (2007) by Ellen Hopkins is a thought-provoking novel that explores the lives of three teenagers grappling with their own inner demons. Here's why this book is worth adding to your reading list:
- The raw and honest portrayal of the characters' struggles with mental health issues offers a unique insight into the complexity of human emotions.
- Through multiple perspectives and a compelling narrative style, the book delves deep into the dark and turbulent aspects of adolescence, captivating readers from start to finish.
- With its gripping and fast-paced storyline, the book keeps readers on the edge of their seats, ensuring that boredom is the last thing on their minds.
Who should read Impulse?
- Teenagers and young adults dealing with mental health issues
- Those who want to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of suicide and self-harm
- Readers who enjoy emotionally raw and thought-provoking novels
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Impulse FAQs
What is the main message of Impulse?
The main message of Impulse is that three troubled teens find solace and understanding in a psychiatric hospital.
How long does it take to read Impulse?
The reading time for Impulse varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Impulse a good book? Is it worth reading?
Impulse is a compelling read that explores the struggles of its characters with sensitivity and depth. It's definitely worth picking up.
Who is the author of Impulse?
The author of Impulse is Ellen Hopkins.
What to read after Impulse?
If you're wondering what to read next after Impulse, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright