Powerhouse author Ellen Hopkins presents her newest novel in verse, PEOPLE KILL PEOPLE. With her startling prose and unique writing style, Hopkins tells the story of six teenagers whose lives collide in the politically divided city of Tucson, Arizona. Their toils and troubles will lead to violence that will leave someone dead at the hand of a gun. But as Hopkins so poignantly states, “People kill people. Guns just make it easier.”

"Hopkins’ spectacular writing offers insightful commentary on the human condition, allowing the reader to reflect on their past decisions and ultimately learn from them."

While I have heard many wonderful reviews of Ellen Hopkins’ prior novels, I never had an opportunity to read one myself until now. I think that PEOPLE KILL PEOPLE was the perfect place to start. Recently, I have jumped at the opportunity to read books written in verse, as it is a diversion from the very traditional narrative storytelling seen in most young adult novels. This novel is not as verse heavy as Hopkins’ previous works, but it is still marvelously written nonetheless.

Throughout the novel, the reader is taken into the perspective of the six characters and is allowed to live vicariously through them, getting a deep exposure to their innermost thoughts and feelings. This distinct form of prose conveys the violent streak that lies not only in the six main characters, but in all humans alike. Humans are impulsive, emotional, irrational, even brash. When we act on these feelings, we often make inaccurate judgements that reflect poorly on ourselves. Despite the fact that this behavior lies within our human nature, we often ignore it or let it bottle up until it becomes explosive. Hopkins' spectacular writing offers insightful commentary on the human condition, allowing the reader to reflect on their past decisions and ultimately learn from them.

After reading PEOPLE KILL PEOPLE, I was left completely speechless. This book is one that I will be recommending for years and years to come. I believe that this is one book readers should go into blind because, by the end, their eyes will truly be opened in ways unimaginable. I could not be more grateful I had the opportunity to read Hopkins’ latest release and I will definitely be reading more from her in the future.