Tara's sister died a year ago, on the day that Tara didn't answer her phone when Hannah called. And Hannah stepped in front of a bus. Now Tara lives with the guilt of wondering if things would be different if she had been there when Hannah needed her most. Competing in slam poetry competitions is the only way Tara can keep her sister's memory alive and deal with all the unanswered questions. But at some point, Tara is going to have to let Hannah rest in peace, and she will need to find a way to move on.
"Tate makes this book entertaining and accessible for its intended reader. It's short and punchy and has a compelling protagonist. Tara is easy to relate to and sympathize with, and she is written in a believable way...Fallout has something of value to offer to most teen readers. Tate does an admirable job of dealing with the topic of childhood suicide and its devastating effects on family members. It is refreshing that this is not at all a story about a depressed teenager, but the story of a survivor. It deals very well with the subject of guilt and also with the emotional turmoil which suicide creates...Both the poetry and the poetry scene provide a lively and effective story which readers will enjoy. Recommended."
– CM Magazine
"Tate captures Tara's grief and guilt about her sister's suicide...The lengthy passages of slam poetry make this novel an intriguing read. The novel will appeal particularly to those readers who have experienced grief because of a death in their family."
– Resource Links
"A novel that uses the beauty of poetry to tell a sad but familiar story...A well-organized, clearly written book that will [be] relat[able] to young adult readers...Recommended."
– Tri State YA Book Review Committee
"An excellent addition to a hi-lo collection because readers will find the subject matter realistic and gripping."
– Southwestern Ohio Young Adult Materials Review Group
"Detailed descriptions of the competitive slam poetry world are vivid and engaging."
– The Horn Book Guide
TriState Young Adult Book Review Committee Book of Note | 2012 | Commended
CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens | 2012 | Commended
