"Give a Boy a Gun" is a young adult novel written by Todd Strasser. The novel tells the story of two high school friends, Brendan and Gary, who become disillusioned with their lives and decide to plan a school shooting.
The story begins with Brendan and Gary as best friends who are both struggling to fit in at school. Brendan is constantly bullied and feels like an outcast, while Gary is struggling with his own problems at home. Despite their differences, the two boys bond over their shared love of video games and their desire to escape their difficult realities.
As the story progresses, Brendan and Gary become more and more isolated from their peers and begin to fantasize about taking revenge on those who have wronged them. They begin to plan a school shooting, gathering weapons and practicing their plan.
As the day of the shooting approaches, Brendan and Gary's friendship is tested as they grapple with the moral implications of their actions. Brendan begins to have doubts about the shooting and wonders if there is another way to solve their problems. However, Gary is determined to go through with the plan, convinced that it is the only way to make a statement and be remembered.
In the end, Brendan must make a choice: will he go through with the shooting or find another way to deal with his problems? The novel ends with Brendan standing in front of the school, holding a gun, as he struggles to make a decision.
"Give a Boy a Gun" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that tackles difficult themes such as bullying, gun violence, and the complexities of male friendships. It encourages readers to consider the consequences of their actions and the importance of seeking help when faced with difficult problems.
