This Truman nominee book was one that I didn't want to finish, but I couldn't turn away. Brewster, or Bruiser, is an empath. He takes on other people's emotions and other people's actual physical injuries. Luckily it only works with people he cares about. He is a loner with no friends when Bronte decides to befriend him and make him a boyfriend. Her twin brother Tennyson also becomes a friend.
The conflict revolves around Brewster, his abusive uncle, his younger brother Cody, and his secret. Awful things happen in his home life. His uncle is a sick, twisted individual who tries to keep Brewster isolated from all others while using him for his own ends.
Bronte tries to help him make friends and become a part of school life with unintended consequences. Her brother also helps Brewster, but finds himself using him for his own ends. The whole book has to come to a resolution for Brewster or he will not be able to survive.
The character could be compared to the Appalachian "sin eater" or even to a Christ figure taking on "sins" of others. There is much that could be discussed in a group in this book. It is not black and white or at all clear cut.
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