27/08/2024
“Do you feel safe?”
Crossing the Line by Tia Fisher is a powerful and eye-opening verse novel about gang activity and violence among teenagers. The book’s protagonist, Erik, is a troubled teen whose life starts falling apart when his dad dies. His mom has a new boyfriend, gets pregnant with twins, is abandoned, and they are running out of money. Slowly, he starts getting involved with the gang for what seems like quick, easy cash. To Erik, the gang is like his family when his real one is collapsing. But when Erik wants to get away, is it too late? Crossing the Line explores themes of trust, poverty, and violence through moving language and intricate writing.