The Rules of Survival by Nancy Werlin

Description

“The Rules of Survival” is a young adult novel written by Nancy Werlin. Published in 2006, the book tackles themes of abuse, resilience, and the power of sibling bonds.

The story follows the perspective of Matthew, a teenager who is the oldest of three siblings: Callie, Emmy, and Nicholas. They live with their mentally unstable and abusive mother, Nikki. Matthew becomes the narrator of the story, chronicling the challenges and turmoil his family faces as they navigate their tumultuous home life.

In “The Rules of Survival,” Matthew strives to protect his siblings from their mother’s erratic behavior and violent outbursts. He develops a set of rules for survival, attempting to shield them from harm while desperately seeking a way to escape their toxic environment.

As the siblings endure the ups and downs of living with their abusive mother, they find solace and support in their sibling bond. Matthew tries to keep his siblings safe while also grappling with his own emotions and conflicting desires for normalcy and freedom.

Nancy Werlin portrays the devastating effects of abuse on the characters’ lives and mental well-being, offering a realistic and empathetic exploration of a difficult subject matter. The novel delves into the complexities of family dynamics, the lasting impact of trauma, and the resilience and strength that can arise from such challenging circumstances.

“The Rules of Survival” has been praised for its raw and honest portrayal of abuse and its exploration of the characters’ emotional journeys. It sheds light on the importance of support systems, inner strength, and the possibility of breaking free from cycles of abuse.

While addressing heavy and sensitive themes, Nancy Werlin’s writing provides readers with a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that emphasizes the power of love, determination, and the pursuit of a better life.