Waiting on Wednesday (16) - Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. On Wednesdays, bloggers showcase the books they are eagerly awaiting.

Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick

Hits Shelves on August 13, 2013

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Synopsis
In addition to the P-38, there are four gifts, one for each of my friends. I want to say good-bye to them properly. I want to give them each something to remember me by. To let them know I really cared about them and I'm sorry I couldn't be more than I was—that I couldn't stick around—and that what's going to happen today isn't their fault.

Today is Leonard Peacock's birthday. It is also the day he hides a gun in his backpack. Because today is the day he will kill his former best friend, and then himself, with his grandfather's P-38 pistol.

But first he must say good-bye to the four people who matter most to him: his Humphrey Bogart-obsessed next-door neighbor, Walt; his classmate Baback, a violin virtuoso; Lauren, the Christian homeschooler he has a crush on; and Herr Silverman, who teaches the high school's class on the Holocaust. Speaking to each in turn, Leonard slowly reveals his secrets as the hours tick by and the moment of truth approaches.

In this riveting book, acclaimed author Matthew Quick unflinchingly examines the impossible choices that must be made—and the light in us all that never goes out. (Goodreads)

Why I'm Waiting
Lately, I've been reading more and more YA contemporary. Or at least, I've been trying to. This book sounds like a gripping, intense read, and I'm anxious to hear the backstory. What drove Peacock to this? What demons has he been struggling with? And why is he no longer friends with his best friend? In light of recent shootings, this book is more relevant than ever. I'm eager to learn more about Leonard's psychological health and his past.

What are you waiting for this week?