Written by Sophia Coggeshall, Marshfield, Massachusetts
Gripped Part 2: Blindsided by Stacy A. Padula provides the reader with a realistic, uncensored look into what it is like to deal with the lasting effects of drugs, specifically through the storylines of characters such as Taylor Dunkin, a recovering addict and drug dealer, and his relationship with his younger brother Marc, as well as through the storyline of their younger cousin Chris Dunkin, who is introduced to drugs at a very young age. The novel is a must read for today’s generation of teenagers who will be, if not already, exposed to the same issues that the characters in the novel are faced with.
Blindsided continues the captivating story told in the first book of the series of a group of high schoolers who become intertwined in the dangerous world of substance abuse. The novel highlights the inherent issues that result from drug usage by revealing the negative effects that drugs cause for various characters’ personal relationships and overall mental health. This second book of the series not only addresses how each of the characters first became involved in drugs, but it also details how they cope with the effects of their addiction.
About Gripped Part 2: Blindsided
“Gripped Part 2: Blindsided guides the reader through a thrilling narrative, expertly utilizing flashbacks to demonstrate a complete picture of just how devastating and far-reaching substance abuse can be, as it impacts not just individuals, but entire families and communities. It is an essential young adult book for kids and parents alike.” – E. Harvey, Emerson College
“One of the main benefits of reading Gripped Part 2: Blindsided, as well as the entire Grippedseries, is that it not only shows the horrors of substance abuse, but also reveals the buildup to it. Blindsided depicts not just the worst days, but the first days. Through the story, teens are able to learn about decisions and behaviors that can lead to drug abuse. Throughout the story, the social lives of the different characters intertwine with each other, creating drama, conflict, and new friendships, which makes Blindsided a fascinating read.” – M. Farinacci, St. Sebastian’s School
Fourteen-year-old Chris Dunkin is known for being the life of the party and everyone’s favorite friend. Despite his amicable nature, he carries around deep-seated pain from his childhood that he frequently numbs with alcohol and drugs.
After hosting a party, Chris awakes with a strange vibe running through his body and no recollection of the previous night. When he learns the horrifying truth of what his night entailed, the trajectory of his life is changed forever.
ABOUT SOPHIA COGGESHALL
INTERN OF THE MONTH: NOVEMBER 2019
Sophia is a senior at Marshfield High School in Marshfield, Massachusetts. She is a competitive Irish Step dancer who has competed several times at the Regional, National, and World Championships, and she also plays on the Varsity Field Hockey team for her high school. With a great passion for math and science in the classroom, she looks forward to studying engineering in college.
Additional Articles by Sophia:
Sophia Coggeshall Reviews “Gripped Part 1” By Stacy A. Padula
Gripped on Gripped: Why Teens Will Love This New Book Series
Sophia Coggeshall Breaks Down the Gripped Characters
Marshfield Senior Recommends Teens Read New Novel About Addiction
New Teen Book Series’ Dynamic Characters Will Leave You Gripped
Books by Stacy A. Padula 
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