We had to read this book as part of a Human Sexuality course in college, and I have to say I've never been so utterly frustrated by a YA book before. I'm not even sure I can classify it as a "good" book -- "good" books to me are ones where you can identify with the protagonist/main character, not books where you constantly find yourself wanting to strangle said main character because he keeps refusing to own up to his actions. I've read reviews that say this perfectly described boys the reviewers attended high school with, and I have to add to that, including "most boys of the current generation that I've had the misfortune to run across" -- no one takes responsibility for what they do anymore, it's always someone else's fault, etc etc. I suppose Inexcusable is a good book in the sense that it brings out these strong feelings, but... I dunno, it wasn't my cup of tea then and it's not now, either. Nor was I a big fan of how the chapters tossed back and forth between the night of Keir's partying and his senior year in general -- a bit too confusing for this reader.

Share/Like this Review?

Reviewed by Cana Rensberger for TeensReadToo.com

Keir is a good guy. He's about to graduate from high school and follow his older sisters to college. The reader will admire the closeness of his family: the father, a widower who has raised his three children alone; the son who adores his older sisters. Yes, Keir is a good guy.

When an opposing football player is gravely injured as a result of Keir's perfect tackle, we believe Keir. It's not his fault. He's a good guy. Right?

The reader will wonder, along with Keir, if it was really possible that he's been a part of the vandalism of a local monument. And surely Keir, a spring soccer player himself, would never have contributed to the football teams' severe hazing of his teammates after the soccer banquet.

When his sister's aren't able to attend his graduation, the reader empathizes with his feelings of betrayal. We understand his need to let loose on the night of his graduation and feel concern as he faces troubling choices. We feel hopeful when Gigi, the girl of his dreams, leans on him when her boyfriend stands her up. Just like Keir's sisters.

The evening becomes a kaleidoscope of emotions, which result in risky behavior, a three-hour limo ride across the state line, a visit to his college, and a night with Gigi. Keir's a good boy. He would never commit the inexcusable...would he?

I read this book all the way through in one sitting. It was riveting. INEXCUSABLE by Chris Lynch is a glimpse into a boy walking a blurred line into manhood. This is a must read for any young man who has ever been, or ever expects to be, in love.

Share/Like this Review?

Or Unforgettable could be another title. This book takes you deep into the character's head from page one to end. You see how distorted his vision is of what 'happened' between him and the girl involved - a remarkable book for more mature audiences.

Share/Like this Review?