"Every sentence in this gorgeous little novel feels perfect and necessary. This focused, humane book is a joy." -- The New York Times Book Review "Part character study, part reckoning, this is a painful, magical gem of a novel that, even when it perplexes, will rip the hearts right out of its readers." -- Booklist (starred review) "Literary, illuminating, and stunningly told." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "A frank, riveting portrayal of a gay teenager's sexual awakening." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review) "Ness manages to pack all this drama into a coherent and compulsively readable story line peopled with credible, rounded characters among the teens and the adults." -- School Library Journal (starred review) "This book's self-awareness lends its events a dreamlike feel. Though it functions as an accessible, standalone coming-of-age story, awareness of its influences makes for a layered reading experience.

" -- The Horn Book "Patrick Ness is an insanely beautiful writer." -- John Green "Release is beautiful, enchanting, exquisitely written; the novel builds to an adrenaline-surged ending that only Patrick Ness can deliver. This is an incredible work of intertwined, mirrored stories that left me slack-jawed and in awe of one of the true master storytellers of our time." -- Andrew Smith, Michael L. Printz Honor-winning author of Grasshopper Jungle and Winger "Hilarious, gripping, and viciously insightful throughout. The novel's main points are continuously, beautifully conveyed: family consists of people chosen as much as those related by blood; and while all meaningful and positive relationships are difficult and messy, their maintenance is essential for fulfillment." -- Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) "This compelling coming-of-age story will resonate with readers of all ages, and will remind everyone that the sun always rises again tomorrow." -- Brightly "I was gripped by Adam's journey to self-belief, told pacily, beautifully.

" -- London Times.