I got the chance to meet Patrick Ness this past week, and he was so nice to all his readers. Plus, to hear some of the motivations behind his books was wonderful–he’s definitely made it to the top of my list of young adult authors. I’ve loved every single one of his books. His last book is no exception.
This week, my playlist is dedicated to the main character of his latest book, Release, Adam Thorn. Adam Thorn feels a lot of things–but one of the biggest ones is how alone he feels. The book tugs at your heart strings, like all Patrick Ness books.
Without further ado, here is my tribute to Adam Thorn.
“Somebody That I Used to Know” by Elliott Smith
Throughout much of the story, Adam struggles getting over a boy he loved, Endo. A boy who didn’t love him back in the same way.
“Screaming Infidelities” by Dashboard Confessional
In the beginning of the book, Adam goes on a run, which always helps him to deal with his feelings and emotions. I imagine the music he listened to would be a little angsty.
“Mix Tape” by Brand New
I chose this for the same reason as the last song–running angst music.
“This is Gospel” by Panic! At the Disco
Adam feels lost throughout most of the book, and as bad thing after bad thing keeps happening, he struggles getting out of the hole he’s fallen into.
“Down by the Water” by The Decemberists
A lot of the book takes place near the river, near a lake, the theme of water reflecting the idea of release.
“Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac
Though he’s only 17, Adam feels that he’s felt true heartbreak–and he believes that it shouldn’t be any less real just because of his age.
“Youth” by Daughter
Being a (mostly) closeted gay teen, Adam’s love life hasn’t quite been easy. Especially with a super religious family breathing down his neck.
“Rory” by Foxing
Lost love, lost connection, feeling alone. All feelings that Adam feels throughout the course of his worst day ever.
“Not Today” by Twenty One Pilots
Despite it all, Adam is able to make it through the day, with hope for the future.
“Heroes” by David Bowie
In the end, Adam learns that he can be the hero of his own story. I think this song just fits this story, kind of like it fits Perks of Being a Wallflower.