The Five Stages of Andrew Brawley Paperback – January 19, 2016

When I first read the synopsis, I wasn’t entirely sure about reading this novel, but seeing the great reviews, and after some umming and erring, I finally picked it up. ‘The Five Stages of Andrew Brawley’ was a dark horse and has become one of my favorite GLBTQIA+ reads.At first I found this frustrating – like, how could a kid go unnoticed living in a hospital? I wondered if he was imagining things and this was some sort of dream. Then I wondered if he was actually suffering some sort of mental illness… but as it turned out ‘The Five Stages of Andrew Brawley’ was much grittier. And real. Well, as the title alludes to – these are our protagonist’s journey through the five stages of grief.Interspersed between chapters were parts of Drew’s comic book ‘Patient K, – which was a symbolic telling of Drew’s innermost psyche – dark, entertaining and poignant.His friendships with the staff and patients is endearing, as is Drew himself. He is a loving, gentle soul who carries the weight of some major tragedy (or sin) along with him. He haunts the corridors of Roanoke General like a ghost – the only survivor left of his family.Once you get past the half way mark the story really starts to open up – much like a tree spreading its roots in many different directions. It was a true marvel to read – Shaun David Hutchinson is a genius. His writing style is colorful, edgy and magnificent. I could not describe how jealous I was at how he expressed Drew’s thoughts in words. I became an instant fan!Highly recommend you add this title to your collection :)

This was a good story. It was darker than I usually like, but, I found myself continuing to read. At times I found myself questioning the plausibility of the situation and circumstances to such a degree that it pulled me away from the focus of the story. However, the characters are what keep things on track. They are written with a voice that enables you to focus on loving them, rooting for them and pushing them towards their happy ever after. I can feel the authors efforts and hard work in writing this story, his love and care for the characters translate well to the page. Overall, my opinion is that it is an interesting story with wonderful characters, and although it teeters on the dark side and may not be for everyone, I enjoyed it. Many thanks to the author and his team for sharing this story.

I am pleased there is finally a LGBT ya book that doesn't center on lgbt rights but of life! I just finished this book. The beginning was a little slow, but after about 50 pages, I couldn't put it down and finished it at 3 am. And don't let the typical LGBT ya genre fool you because that is hardly the centerpiece of this book. Everyone can identify with happens to Andrew and can identify with any of the other characters. This book is a must read for therapists that work with suicidal individuals because it is potentially a therapeutic book. But please don't read that as a limitation. This book will resonate with anyone who has even a modicum of empathy.

I loveee Shaun David Hutchinson's books. His book "We Are the Ants" is probably one of my favorite books of all time. But, we're not here to talk about that one (but go read that one too). "The Five Stages of Andrew Brawley" is an amazing book. I loved going through Andrew's journey with him as he has to come to terms with the death of his family and the relationship between him, his friends, and Rusty is so amazing. I cried a little when a certain character (not going to say who) passed away. I also love how there are little comic book pages spread throughout of the comic that Andrew is drawing. 11/10 Recommend.

The book has a great storyline and well-fleshed our characters, but I think the book stalled in parts that needed a push, and vice-versa. Andrew, the main character, is an interesting person to follow. The supporting characters all have unique stories of their own but I think, sometimes, some visions fail to reach others and for me, this was one of them.

This book was very good. I love books that you become invested and really care what happens. All of the characters are great and I truly enjoyed all of them. The main Character, Andrew, was a typical teen who has been through a terrible accident and has to deal with the fall out. Some of his decision were questionable but he is only a teenager and he is very kind and caring. I would recommend to everyone to read this novel.

This is an emotional roller coaster of a book. Classed as a YA book, I have bought copies for adult friends who loved it as well. The book will make you laugh and bring you to tears as you travel the hospital halls with Andrew Bradley. The twists and turns of the plot are unexpected and often mind-bending. The book may change your mind about many contemporary issues! You will finish this book amazed.

Loved this book. Couldn't put it down. Very touching

This is one of the most unique YA books I've read. Beautifully written and full of rounded, relatable characters; hope, love; loss; dying and suicide ideology...and comics. Highly recommend.

Very nice coming of age story. Loved the writing style and insight into the characters. Suited to young adult.

Really good. Definitely worth a read.

Este libro trató de ser demasiadas cosas en unas cuantas páginas y al final lo único que logró ser fue un desastre.