In the coastal town of Cork, Ireland, high school student Johnny Cronin is a popular rugby star and a talented athlete with a clear path to professional sports. His life changes when he becomes the protector of Shannon Lynch, a new student who has suffered years of severe physical bullying and domestic abuse. Shannon hides her bruises and keeps herself isolated until an accidental encounter on the rugby pitch brings her into Johnny’s orbit. Johnny chooses to shield Shannon from her tormentors, navigating his own pressure to perform while Shannon begins to confront her family secrets and the trauma of her past.
Young adult readers interested in the intersection of sports culture and heavy emotional narratives find this book useful for its depiction of recovery from violence. It provides a detailed look at the social hierarchies within an Irish secondary school and the logistical challenges of escaping an abusive home environment. Readers walk away with a specific understanding of how supportive relationships can aid in healing from long-term distress and the level of discipline required to maintain a high-ranking athletic career amidst personal turmoil.
Insights from Binding 13
“I see you, Shannon Lynch.”
Johnny watching Shannon hide her bruises is the hardest part. It shows how love starts with just seeing someone clearly for the first time.
“You’re safe now. I’ve got you.”
Safety isn't a place. It is just a boy with a rugby ball standing between a girl and her father.
“Believe in your own voice.”
Shannon carries so much silence in her bones. Watching her finally find her voice feels like a victory for every quiet kid.
“I was existing, not living.”
Johnny is the king of the school but he feels totally empty inside. It turns out the person who has everything can still be starving for real connection.
- Published
- 2018
- Publisher
- Sourcebooks
- ISBN
- 9781728299945
- Language
- EN
