Ariel Crashes a Train

A deeply affecting novel in verse about a young person trying to find their way while struggling with OCD and violent intrusive thoughts. I think this is a book that could really really help someone if they get it at the right time, so for that I applaud it. I loved the relationship Ariel forms with Ruth and Rex, and the way they create space for each other. I thought Ariel's relationship with her sister was so important. I do wish there was a little more resolution about her parents, but overall I appreciated the ending (which is really more like a beginning for Ariel). I sincerely hope this book finds the people who need it.

I think this was a very realistic portrayal of OCD: not every person with OCD has issues around cleanliness and intrusive thoughts aren't just like weird thoughts that pop into your head for a laugh, but can be really distressing and destablizing. To that end, this could be triggering for some folks!