No Going Back

by Patrick Flores-Scott

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

"Powerful…. The excellent pacing and heart-wrenching exploration of redemption will sweep readers up." —Kirkus Reviews

"[A] page-turning, highly readable story." —Booklist

"Time-stamped chapters add urgency, intensity, and excitement as the thrilling plot progresses, making for a page-turning story about forgiveness and personal evolution." —Publishers Weekly

"The fast pace of the book will keep readers engaged as they bounce between the present and the past …. the energy of Antonio’s story will sweep interested readers along, and they will sympathize with his desire to become the person he knows he can be throughout this novel focused on friendship, loyalty and redemption." —Bookpage

In this tour de force about one teen’s quest for redemption from the award-winning author of American Road Trip, Antonio is determined to make amends to the people he hurt most—even if it means breaking the terms of his early release from juvenile detention.

It’s Friday morning, and seventeen-year-old Antonio Sullivan is on the verge of earning his early release from Zephyr Woods Youth Detention Center. Having been incarcerated for the last year and a half for a crime he didn’t directly commit, he’s now dedicating himself to his education and his sobriety program. What’s more, Antonio is driven by a deep need to make amends to the two people he hurt the his mom and his lifelong best friend, Maya. The conditions of his early release are clear—Antonio can’t have any contact with his father or miss his first meeting with his parole officer Monday morning. But a lot can happen between Friday and Monday, especially when the odds are against you.

Told through time-stamped chapters that race at a fever pitch over the course of a weekend, this absorbing coming-of-age novel explores what it means to right past wrongs in the face of adversity.

Genres: Young Adult, Realistic Fiction, Contemporary, Fiction, Coming Of Age, Abuse, Young Adult Contemporary

344 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 2, 2024

About the author

Patrick Flores-Scott is the acclaimed author of the award-winning novels Jumped In and American Road Trip, which was named a YALSA Best Fiction Book, a TAYSHAS Reading List Selection, an SLJ National Hispanic Heritage Month pick, and a Teen Vogue Best Gift Book, and was licensed to WEBTOON for graphic digital serialization. Patrick taught public school in Seattle, Washington, for many years and has written for theater and the slam poetry stage. He lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with his family and invites you to visit him online at patrickfloresscott.com.

Reviews

[Amina · Rating 3 out of 5]

✰ 3 stars ✰

“As you read my story, you will judge me too. That’s all right. It’s human nature to judge. In judging me, however, please keep these words in mind:

On our journey to growing and developing into the ideal whole persons we hope to become, we are all just stumbling forward in the dark, searching to find our way the very best we can.”

With these closing remarks, seventeen-year-old Antonio ends his plea to the readers - to not judge without hearing his whole story of how he finds himself in hot waters again, within only forty-eight hours after being recently incarcerated from his year and half stint in Zephyr Woods Youth Detention Center in Des Moines, Washington.​ 😔 That as he delivers in poignant detailed verse, the events that led to him being in his present situation, while also shedding light on his own troubled past​ - from his own family struggles that affected him personally to that life-changing moment where he was involved in a crime of which he was wrongfully if not indirectly accused of, there's No Going Back to the way he was before, if he wants to have a shot at the life he wants to live.​ 😥

“But that stuff isn’t who I am now. You’ve got your junk. But that junk isn’t who you are. You and me… we’re just two people trying our best.”

Time and time again, I wanted to berate Antonio so badly for the thoughtless if not reckless choices he made; watching him knowingly defy the rules required of him to follow, because his heart was the rash guide of his decision-making. And yet, I still understood why he felt the need to act the way that he did. 🥺​ The closure that he needed to wrap up - not only loose ends that affected his sole judgment, but also to get a reconcilitary feeling of acknowledgment from those that he himself walked away from​ 'It’s time for a new strategy. A new plan for a new day.'. Be it a best friend or a parent or a friend - those feelings cut deep. Those unresolved emotions of either feeling unloved or unworthy in the eyes of his mother or his best friend - the sting of betrayal from a so-called best friend or the kindness of a father he didn't ever have or never thought he could have - were portrayed in a writing style that defined his personality, too.​ Raw, gritty, and honest - tinged with the longing of not only forgiveness, but acceptance. 💔💔

And that's what made me hope and want Antonio to find a way out of the mistakes that led him down this unfortunate road. You can't change the past, but you can change the future; and that, underneath all his bravado and determination to adhere to the rules that he was meant to follow, is also that compelling need to wrong the right. The writing captured how surreal it feels to finally be on the other side - not to have fear or doubt of crossing a line or having the luxury of even the simplest of things. 'I haven’t opened a door in forever. It’s like I need permission, or like I’m afraid of what might happen if I do.' 😞​

It makes it even sadder to see that even as he gets trapped, nay, coerced into the wrongdoings of his past - he knew that this was his only chance for escape - for survival. It's like that Godfather quote - 'Just when I thought I was out - they pull me back in.' On a smaller scale, of course, but when there are still people lurking in the shadows who are out to collect, I could understand why Antonio behaved the way he did. How, despite how much he wanted to stay on the straight path, he had to do the impossible for it to become possible - to stay loyal and faithful to those that once mattered to him, in order for him to forgive himself and be free of those he felt tied down to.​ 😥

“What if you know that making amends to a certain person would change everything—like, it would get you over a hump in your life—but that person doesn’t even want to see you? How do you stop that from messing with your mind?”

I think writing it in verse was a smart idea for Patrick Flores-Scott's Young Adult debut. It suited the fast pace in which the trajectory of events unfolded, while also nicely evening out the shift of the past and present. Antonio has lived a rough life - embittered by parental abuse, neglect and alcoholic consumption that not only negatively affected his most precious relationships, but caused him to behave in manners less becoming of a young man. 😟​ And to see how he realized how bad of a character he was before was nicely done; but, at the same time, my heart ached to see how much pain and suffering he has endured at the hands of others - especially his father.​

I didn't know what to make of the future scenes with him, but they were hard - hard to read, hard to witness, and I can't even begin to imagine how unpleasant, if not, difficult it would be for a person in Antonio's position. I'm not sure if the cover really does it justice, since I didn't really think that his relationship with his best friend, Maya, was the focal point of the story, but it was a part of his life that I liked how it played out. His relationship with his mother - her Venga, mijo was a heartbreaking one; a difficult challenge for how he feels torn over the breach of trust he's displaying now, while still hurting over how she treated him before he was sent away. 'She looked desperate, wanting, loving, hating, losing, lost, gone.' ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹​ It has been a rough road for both of them and I wanted him to have a chance at happiness - not to ruin the stability of a promising future she was offering him.

“How did you end up here? I asked.
My story has too many twists and turns to recount now.
But that’s life. You’re up one day. Down the next.
The point is, what kind of person will you choose to be when you choose to rise again?”

But, I guess it really comes down to is that was all that he did in that limited time worth it? Were the two days of freedom to right the wrong he had done before worth the troubles of a few days of misguided actions - one that could possibly guarantee him a life without fear of looking over his shoulder and shouldering a guilty conscience? That while the ending - an improbable and gripping encounter was one where I had to suspend disbelief at how conveniently certain aggravating and dangerous ends were resolved, I think leaving the court's decision over Antonio's case unanswered was a wise, if not sensible choice.​ 👍🏻👍🏻 That no matter what is eventually decided, there is no going back to who Antonio was before he got out from prison two days ago. That out of the wildest stuff that happened to me this weekend, he is finally free of all the doubts, the blame, the guilt that he carried within him when he walked into his sentence a year and a half ago. Walking back in, based on everything that has transpired may not be in his hands, but at least, he knows in his heart that he is content with the person that he is now. And for him, that is truly the most important thing - the only thing that matters.​ 🙏🏻🙏🏻

“I know I did what I needed to do. I said the
goodbyes I needed to say. I forgave the people I needed to forgive.
And in my mind, and in my heart, I am free.”

[Estee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked reading this book. It was easy to get into Antonio's head and even though there was some poems, they added to the story.

This book takes place over 3 days and follows Antonio's release back into the 'real world' and how he deals with the people and situations that landed him in juvenile detention. While it is a difficult and frustrating weekend, Antonio is extremely lucky to have solid people in his corner that understand him and support him.

Thank you to Little, Brown Books and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book.

[H. Woodward · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5. I really, really like the characters in this book. A lot, I think they fairly represent the impact that addiction and incarceration have on families and communities. I think it’s important, too, to point out that Antonio has a team, that is rooting for him every step of the way. Most teens do have that team, they just don’t feel like they do in the worst moments. But, I do think it’s a little crazy this whole, huge ‘adventure’ Antonio has in just one weekend. I know a lot can happen in a weekend, but it’s wild. Changing your life takes time, and fixing relationships that are broken takes time. It’s all more than the work of a weekend, you know? I know students will love the mixing of prose and poetry, as well as the time-stamped chapters. This book will definitely have readers, I just have mixed feelings about it as an adult.

[Chrissy Paperback Treasures · Rating 5 out of 5]

Antonio has just been released from Zephyr Woods where he has spent the last year and a half for what he feels he is a crime he is only a little at fault for. Somehow he wound up with the majority of the punishment, but he's come to terms, he learned some important things from some amazing people at Zephyr Woods and now its his time to make amends, and to reunite with the one person who he has always been able to count on. Nothing goes as planned and instead of facing all the reasons he was put away to begin with, Antonio runs, just like he always has, but this time, maybe he is running towards something bigger than anyone ever could have imagined, instead of away.

I have read some really incredible YA Lit-Fic in the last two years. After months of reading murdery stuff, I was ready for something with feeling. Boy did I get it in picking No Going Back. I honestly don't think that Netgalley's description fully prepared me for Flores-Scott's writing.

The story begins with Antonio, or Tonio as his friends and family call him, preparing to re-enter society after his time in Zephyr Woods. You are filled with hope for his future as he tells his mentors what comes next and what his plans are. The chapters swap between current Antonio and past Antonio. The writing for the chapters that show glimpses into Antonio's life leading up to his incarceration is a bit jarring at first. It's not only the tense that changes, but the cadence. The past is written solely in verse. It won't take long for you to get used to the flow and sink into the story again though.

There came a point where I did have to put the book down and walk away from it for a bit. As a mother with teenagers, I wanted to hug this boy so hard but also lock him up again for all of the self harm he was doing. Self harm isn't always physical folks. Often times it can be done with destructive behaviors. Antonio became a ticking time bomb and the explosion was going to be this life he had so carefully begun to piece back together. I put the book down so that I could take a breath, I needed one just as bad as Antonio. You know a book is good when you are held so tight in it's fist that your emotions become entwined with the main characters.

No Going Back is intense, emotional, and at times difficult to read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for this tale of forgiveness, redemption, and healing. If you loved the lyrical writing styles of Clap When You Land or What Happened to Ruthy Ramirez, you will love No Going Back.

[Nicole Austin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

"No Going Back" by Patrick Flores-Scott is an emotionally resonant coming-of-age story that explores themes of forgiveness and redemption. The book follows the main character, Antonio, as he struggles to navigate life after serving time in a youth detention center for a crime he committed. The book is filled with action, and the plot is very fast-paced, making this book excellent at grabbing readers’ attention, especially more reluctant readers. I think this book would do really well in high school English classrooms/libraries, especially for readers who enjoy books with action as well as poetry, which I thought was an unlikely but unique mix that worked really well throughout the book.

As stated, I really enjoyed the book’s unique structure, which includes a mix of prose and poetry and time-stamped chapters, as this structure really helps add depth and complexity to the storytelling. I was extremely engaged throughout the book due to not only the plot but also the structure. I also really enjoyed reading the poetry as I thought it was well-written and fit perfectly within the book. It took me a bit to get settled into this structure and for the plot to get going, but once I was invested, I found that I couldn’t stop reading.

Some of the plot developments were a bit unrealistic, such as the ending with the boat ride and crab cage, but it works if you go into this book expecting over-the-top action, almost like it’s an action movie. And even though some of these points were unrealistic, I still had so much fun reading them and they worked with the plot. The characters in this book are richly developed and authentically portrayed. Antonio's internal conflict and external pressures create a compelling perspective that will resonate with readers of all ages. Antonio's journey of self-discovery and redemption is both inspiring and thought-provoking. I really enjoyed learning more about Antonio’s perspective and seeing him grow throughout the book.

Overall, "No Going Back" is a powerful and compelling read that tackles difficult subject matter with sensitivity and grace. With its action-packed sequences and relatable characters, this book is bound to engage every kind of reader.

[Justine Korson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this story.
SPOILERS TO FOLLOW

This book was a rollercoaster. I was torn between hating all of the character to loving them and the journey's they were going on. (I don't think I ever really hated Grace/Tommy though). There was a lot in here to be upset about, from all the dumb mistakes I felt Antonio was making, to how people have treated him in the past, etc. The ending with the boat ride and the crab cage was the most unrealistic part of the whole thing in my opinion. It was also one of the most interesting parts too though. I thought I would see more of Maya in the story, especially since the synopsis talked about how she was one of the people Antonio wanted to apologize to the most. She wasn't in the story much at all though and when she was, I didn't like her. Especially after learning how she supplied a lot of the alcohol that Antonio was drinking. Proud of her for setting her boundaries though and trying to enforce them to the best of her ability despite what Antonio was doing. An unexpected character I ended up liking by the end of the story was Gary Jr. He really was trying to be a good friend and apologize to Antonio and I really think he made up for it in the end though the boys still have a long way to go. The story kind of leaves off on a cliff hanger though and I'm not sure if that's because this advanced copy is meant to end like that or if the final copy has a longer final chapter. Either way it was a very inspiring coming of age story about grief and acceptance and forgiveness that I enjoyed.

[Madelyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

It feels like the author did so much work to get us to be inside Antonio’s head, making us feel for him and understand why he acts the way he does, building this super compelling narrative of humanity, forgiveness, and raw emotion, all for it to lead up to the most unrealistic, illogical, and unfitting ending on the boat. What? In what world would that ever happen. The glitter, the narrow escape?? Feels like we randomly got thrown into a James Bond story? It was so unnecessary and i think a tragic, cut-short ending (with some reworking of relationships and the pages they were left on as to preserve hope) really would have sent the message way stronger- but these teenage boys who are so in over their heads magically getting away from the bad guys just in the nick of time with a surprise appearance from an ally to help them- what a distraction from the entire rest of the story. There was so much opportunity to feel something.

The complexity of the characters was incredible, however, and made the first 90% of the book really real.

[J E R S O N · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story like this makes me nervous; I got two big thoughts against each other. While Antonio (my honest opinion is what some phrases in Spanish I didn't feel comfortable, sorry but those words were towards English speakers who wants learn a "bilingual dictionary" [please next time someone who's Hispanic American heritage deserve being approve an sensitive readers, specially someone who domain Spanish 😬] got important and grieving ups and downs by detention (F* you ICE, Tr🍊mp, etc). Between Maya and Zephyr we're meeting him around the pages dealing our painful and systematic oppressions, to be honest I felt so bad for it. Any verses parts been so shattered, nostalgic and even dark coming of age stealing by an system who attack to less fortunate guys.

Last time I read I discovered what it's a "trilogy" series book. Anyway, I love some parts and other I was confused what I've reading?. well, it's a interesting story if we're want to meet reality in marginalized guys in institution. Personally I recommend other authors

[Chris G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

After over a year, Antonio is getting out of a youth detention center where he’s been serving time for robbing a drug dealer who was working with Antonio’s dad. Gary, Jr. and Vaughn were also involved in the crime, but they both testified against Antonio and were not locked up. Antonio has 72 hours after his release and before his first parole meeting and he’s sure he won’t break any rules, but as soon as he gets home it’s clear how hard it is to avoid the folks who got you in trouble if they are a girl you like, your best friend, and your dad. A propulsive adventure that will leave you cringing at Antonio’s choices but completely understanding his reasons for making them. I loved the western Washington setting. EARC from Edelweiss.

[Katherine Higgs-Coulthard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patrick Flores Scott’s No Going Back is a beautiful bioluminescence illustrating that although we're all, like Tonio, just stumbling forward in the dark, when we recognize the core of who we are we have the power to light the path for others to find their own best selves. Flores Scott captures the complex dynamics of relationships--how the people in your life sometimes pull you in the wrong direction despite their best intentions, but like Claudio tells Tonio, we’re just people trying our best and if we keep trying, failing, trying again, we’ll figure it out. A powerful story of the push and pull between doing what’s right and being there for the people we love.

[Megan Olds · Rating 5 out of 5]

A complex novel detailing Antonio’s journey just after getting out of juvenile detention, with themes of forgiveness, addiction, manipulation, and accountability.

There are many characters that seem mature one second and questionable the next. I can’t say I thought Gary Jr. was ever a good idea for Antonio to get back in his life. *Spoiler alert: I’m so glad somebody thought to call the police about this book’s main incident, though! I was thinking that the whole time!*

Overall, I think there are a lot of poignant topics raised in this book, like how to heal over and over again even as everyone is imperfect. I also liked the writing style with the poetic interludes.

[Madelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got frustrated with Antonio halfway through and went to return the book. But something about it drew me back, and I'm glad for it.

Antonio is released from prison and has to stay on track. He tries to, he really, really does, but as much as he begs his past to stay buried, there is a lot he must reconcile in order to move on. This book chronicles his 4 day journey, making mistakes and amends.

Despite the mess Antonio gets himself into, Patrick Flores-Scott does a beautiful job of tying his story up in the end, leaving the choice of his freedom to the reader. I think Antonio was free in the people who loved him, and that's what counted in the end.

[Lovely Loveday]

No Going Back is a captivating and emotionally charged novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey. This fast-paced narrative delves into the profound experience of being misunderstood, skillfully portrayed through authentic and compelling prose. With its gripping storyline and heart-wrenching exploration of family dynamics, friendship, and the pursuit of redemption, this book will undoubtedly keep you engrossed until the final page. Thank you to the publisher and author for allowing me to share my thoughts on an ARC copy of this book.

[Kristen Johnson · Rating 2 out of 5]

The story was an easy read but the main character was hard to route for. I also really couldn't get past the inconsistency of the "text messages". Messages from the composer of the text sometimes showed up on the left side of the page (with the writing) rather than toward the right as it would display on a phone screen, while sometimes it was done correctly. It made some sections of the book confusing and I would have to go back to figure out who said what.

[Katherine Spruce · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book! And I think my students will enjoy it.

No matter how much someone may try to follow the rules and do what is right, sometimes was is truly good comes out of the mess of our lives.

I enjoyed the style in which the book was written, with the occasional poems providing background info. I also appreciated the sentiment of the way the story ended, but the end itself made me slightly roll my eyes.

[Kayla Lister · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really quick read, which I absolutely love. What I didn’t love was the ending. It was so quick and I wasn’t ready for it. I loved all the characters (except for Maya), and the story was very well written. If the ending wasn’t so sudden and didn’t leave me feeling like I needed more. I would have given it 5 stars.

[SC · Rating 3 out of 5]

3

Antonio was swearing up and down that he wanted to do right after he got released early from youth detention, but goes on to make bad decisions left and right. Yes it was for the better, but I was going crazy reading it. The book kept me on the edge of the seat and I personally loved what he did with the money.

[Sondra Soderborg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is powerful in tracking emotional turbulence and how pain can translate into bad decisions and impulsiveness. It moves fast. It has characters that you root for and who stick with you. It's exciting and meaningful.

[Sai theengineerisreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heartwarming YA novel that talks about the decisions and chances we have in life and how each of it affects not just our own path but also other people's orbit.

Quiet narration but the message was impactful!

[Tanisha Felder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterful characters

[PATTI · Rating 5 out of 5]

ahhh teenagers they always think they know best loved the story not the decisions that he made but it all worked out ish in the end thanks for the story

[Shelby Hunter · Rating 2 out of 5]

The storyline got on my nerves sometimes. However, the book ended up being a page turner for me. Decent book overall.

[JXR · Rating 4 out of 5]

very interesting YA work, would recommend. awesome vibes, felt like i was totally part of it. would recommend 4/5 stars tysm for the arc

[Addison · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5

[Shanley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this read! It was fast-paced and easy to get into. I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. This is a book I would recommend to reluctant male readers.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Antonio is just getting out of juvenile jail (not juvie, he has been convicted of a felony) after 2 years and he is determined to follow the fairly simple terms of his parole. However, he breaks about 7 of them in 48 hours. How does that happen?

Well, as Antonio learns, getting out doesn't solve your problems. There are pressures waiting for him - the internal pressure he feels to make amends, as well as pressures from friends and family members. What I love about this book is that despite bad circumstances, bad decisions, it doesn't FEEL bad. It doesn't feel like wallowing or despair, although there are plenty of tears. There is love, and care, and there are second chances.

There's also action! Wildlife! Poetry! Just so skillful all around.

And not for nothing - I used to do a monthly book group with a bunch of boys at a juvenile detention center, and those boys tended to be very picky. No Going Back ticks every damn box on my mental 'books for boys in lockup' list: realistically stupid crime, bad parent/impossible circumstances, drug slinging, violence, sensory detail, a girl, self-expression, poetry, supportive mentor, forgiveness, redemption.

[Niccibl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short and filled with action sequences, this book will be a great choice for a reluctant reader. While the story can be hard to follow in the beginning, I think readers will get hooked into Anthony’s story and root for his success—even as odds are stacked against him. The mix of poetry and prose is also a selling point for this novel.

[Courtney Mason · Rating 3 out of 5]

No Going Back is a fast paced YA read. It covers the span of one weekend and gave me a Ferris Bueller’s Day Off vibe. It has a great variety of characters and lots of emotion and intense action.