Hothouse

Hothouse, a novel by Chris Lynch (2010), is the story of Russell, a teenage boy whose firefighter father is killed in the line of duty. His father’s death brings him recognition he could possibly imagined. Suddenly everywhere he goes people are calling his father a hero, and calling him hero too. His money is no good anywhere, as people are willing to pay for anything and everything for him. After the investigation, however, the truth of his father’s past comes into view, and Russell must face down a new reality as the town turns against him. The book contains scenes of teenagers using profanity and drinking, adults using and abusing drugs, and some graphic descriptions of two firemen burning alive. This book would be a great option for students to read.