Silent to the Bone is a mysterious and intringing novel. I loved this book as it is both thought provoking and relatable as we uncover what happened to Branwell's sister, Nikki, and why Branwell went silent. Connor does not lose hope in Branwell and must get creative in communicating with Branwell. The use of inner dialogue is extremely powerful as it allows readers to truly connect with Connor and his struggle to unmask the truth. ( )

The novel, Silent to the Bone, is a compelling and mysterious novel. From beginning to end, you are on the edge of your seat in hopes to find the answer of what really happened to Branwell's sister who is now in a coma. His best friend Connor, digs deeper and knows that the story given was not actually one of full truth. He manages to find ways to talk to Branwell even though he wouldn't speak and had limited visitation in a behavioral center. The truth is alluded but not confirmed, making this novel one that is subjective yet interesting. This is recommended for fifth grade and above because of its sexual content. ( )

I enjoyed Silent to The Bone. It was a nonfiction mystery for young adults that involved a boy who becomes a voiceless character halfway through an emergency phone call to the authorities. He ends up in a juvenile detention center and his friend Connor spent the book trying to figure out his mystery. This is a very well written book that captivates the reader. This book does not have any illustrations, so the writing puts the images in the readers head. There are less words on each page compared to adult chapter books and it seems like the font is larger. ( )

This novel shows the struggle of mental illness and great changes in life. The story follows a young boy who has gone through many dramatic challenges such as a new marriage and the fear of loss of a sibling. Though the text this boys friend tries to be a safe place, someone who he can talk to. This book is well written. The story is engaging and keeps you on your seat, waiting for Branwell to finally speak. Through the use of dialogue you feel connected to each character. The background of each minor role is explained well and you truly relate to these people. The story is told from the point of view of Connor, Branwell's best friend. You can feel the struggle and hardship the encounters hold and as the reader you hope for a good outcome. There are no illustrations but the text allows you to imagine each character and setting vividly, "The Ancestors had sent him home dressed in a navy blue blazer, a white shirt with a button down collar, and a necktie." Overall the book conveys a deep message of struggle and compassion. The confusion people have about mental illness is also very apparent. There is a great understanding of the struggle of each individual through the ongoing situation. Each reader will relate to at least on character. ( )

I enjoyed this book for so many reasons. It is told in first person in the point of view of a boy named Connor. The writing is so engaging. I found my heart pounding at some points. I enjoyed the use of voice. I was constantly trying to figure out the ending, making predictions. I definitely think it pushes readers to think critically. I think the main idea of the book is you don't always know what is going on behind closed doors. In this case, the closed doors represent Branwell's head.