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366 Days
Sixteen year old Garrett Powell is agraphobic, androphobic and haptephobic. Ryan Thompson, the new kid, just wants to be his friend and then-hopefully-something more. Kellie Powell wants her big brother back. And Erin Donaldson is just, well, Erin. Not for readers under sixteen. Warnings for strong language.
400 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 8, 2013
Kiyoshi Tanaka's "366 Days" is unlike anything in this genre I've ever read. It is, in the end, a story about the curative power of love - but also an affirmation of the possibility of selfless love.
Garrett Powell seems to be another angry teenager; pissed off at his parents, hating school, resentful of his therapist. Ryan Thompson, on the other hand, is happy-go-lucky, popular, and filled with the joy of being alive. The entire book is played out over the course of a year and a day, the point of view alternating between Garrett and Ryan.
You'd think that they'd hardly be likely to fall for each other, wouldn't you? But this is, after all, a romance. Possibly the darkest teen/YA romance I've ever encountered. Because once Garrett and Ryan begin to interact, we begin to learn the source of Garrett's anger, and it is a horrific secret that will make you shudder.
The development of Garrett and Ryan's friendship becomes a test of the ability of unstinting spiritual generosity to overcome even the most savage emotional wounds. There are moments, I confess, when the rather long book seemed like it was about to start to drag - and then it didn't. Tanaka has crafted an epic personal journey out of the thousand little incidents of two teenagers' lives. It is by turns frustrating, terrifying, heart-warming, amusing, and ultimately so full of love that it overwhelms the reader with hope.
The cast of supporting characters - Erin, Kellie, Marianne, Mary, Derek - are like a carefully choreographed Greek chorus - each of them touched by the story's central drama, each of them necessary to understand the wider implications of the two boys' shifting relationship. "366 Days" makes the unimaginable into a searing story of redemptive compassion. It will haunt you.
Garrett Powell seems to be another angry teenager; pissed off at his parents, hating school, resentful of his therapist. Ryan Thompson, on the other hand, is happy-go-lucky, popular, and filled with the joy of being alive. The entire book is played out over the course of a year and a day, the point of view alternating between Garrett and Ryan.
You'd think that they'd hardly be likely to fall for each other, wouldn't you? But this is, after all, a romance. Possibly the darkest teen/YA romance I've ever encountered. Because once Garrett and Ryan begin to interact, we begin to learn the source of Garrett's anger, and it is a horrific secret that will make you shudder.
The development of Garrett and Ryan's friendship becomes a test of the ability of unstinting spiritual generosity to overcome even the most savage emotional wounds. There are moments, I confess, when the rather long book seemed like it was about to start to drag - and then it didn't. Tanaka has crafted an epic personal journey out of the thousand little incidents of two teenagers' lives. It is by turns frustrating, terrifying, heart-warming, amusing, and ultimately so full of love that it overwhelms the reader with hope.
The cast of supporting characters - Erin, Kellie, Marianne, Mary, Derek - are like a carefully choreographed Greek chorus - each of them touched by the story's central drama, each of them necessary to understand the wider implications of the two boys' shifting relationship. "366 Days" makes the unimaginable into a searing story of redemptive compassion. It will haunt you.
September 16, 2014
The book had a compelling plot and some factors which I've never read before . I also wanted to like the book. I really did, but the writing itself was a bit juvenile .
The story could have used some editing too because it took a few chapters with very little substance before Ryan and Garrett even came close to being friends. This was pretty much the same for the rest of the book. So all in all, it was a promising plot but the execution was a bit poor in my humble opinion.
I would imagine this would appeal to YA readers though.
December 5, 2015
I simply loved this book. Ryan and Garrett are just precious together <3333
August 31, 2013
All I can say right now is damn... its over. I so did not want this book to end. :( This book grabbed me, tugged at my heart and screamed in my face. I am still reeling from it. The author did a remarkable job of relaying the story using two points of view. And in doing so came off as appearing as two separate people telling the story. This simple yet effective story telling way held my interest completely. I feel as though I know the two main character intimately and now I feel lost that I wont be reading anymore about them.
I felt the book was well written and the author was knowledgeable about his subjects of abuse and self injury. She portrayed each character very well for the roles they held in the story.
I cheered Garrett every step of the during his path to healing/recovery. Kudos to Ryan for allowing Garrett to progress at his own speed. This book showcased the fact that sexual abuse is not easily gotten over. The aftermath is just as horrific as the abuse was. Its hard to trust anyone.
I was frustrated by the fact that it seemed everyone was relying on a teenager to help a teenager. It even stated it in several conversations in the book. That being said, I was amazed at some of the things that Ryan said to Garrett to ease some of his panic attacks and also Ryans ways of telling telling Garrett not to worry about what others think of him.
Though it was a hard read, I would recommend it to anyone dealing with the aftermath of sexual abuse.
Im coming back to add one additional comment. For this book especially, do not judge the book by its cover..... (lesson learned!)
I felt the book was well written and the author was knowledgeable about his subjects of abuse and self injury. She portrayed each character very well for the roles they held in the story.
I cheered Garrett every step of the during his path to healing/recovery. Kudos to Ryan for allowing Garrett to progress at his own speed. This book showcased the fact that sexual abuse is not easily gotten over. The aftermath is just as horrific as the abuse was. Its hard to trust anyone.
I was frustrated by the fact that it seemed everyone was relying on a teenager to help a teenager. It even stated it in several conversations in the book. That being said, I was amazed at some of the things that Ryan said to Garrett to ease some of his panic attacks and also Ryans ways of telling telling Garrett not to worry about what others think of him.
Though it was a hard read, I would recommend it to anyone dealing with the aftermath of sexual abuse.
Im coming back to add one additional comment. For this book especially, do not judge the book by its cover..... (lesson learned!)
July 22, 2018
If I could give this book MORE than 5 stars, I would give it TEN. This book was AMAZING. I could not put it down in spite of the very intense and emotional topic. If you read books to be entertained and feel happy, then this book is not for you even though there are some happy parts. I read books about things that happen in real life, that may be unpleasant or difficult to think about, and don't always have a happy ending. The characters are so real and their emotions and lives are played out in a scary but excellent story. Poor Garrett is so damaged, angry and sad, too. I just wanted to scoop him up and hug him myself as the story unfolded. Ryan is so positive and full of life and is the perfect compliment to Garrett. The emotions and love between them is truly amazing and I could really feel it so much the more I read. Well-worth reading but be warned this is a very sensitive topic and not for everyone. I will think about this book for a very long time. Absolutely one of the best books I have ever read. **Third Time I have read it and still one of the very best books that I have EVER read***
April 5, 2013
I liked the no holds barred swearing and discussion of traumatic events as teenagers would talk like this. The gay central relationship felt a bit fantasical and idealized but it was still very enjoyable to read. Having had post traumatic stress disorder myself I found the portal of Garrets condition realistic and gritty.
I wish the story went on a little longer that's all maybe 666 days would have been good =). Please write a sequel!
I wish the story went on a little longer that's all maybe 666 days would have been good =). Please write a sequel!
April 27, 2015
I need a sequel. BADLY.
February 11, 2020
A stunning book that is at times funny and cute, then sweet and romantic, and then devastatingly gut wrenching, touching on one of the most dreadful of sins. Several times I had to lay the book down and walk away, to catch my breath. At first Garret seems like the usual angry teenager, angry at everything and everyone, but we soon learn the terrible truth of his living nightmare. Along comes Ryan, a happy relaxed teenager, and slowly but surely he worms his way into Garret miserable life, and finds a sliver of hope in this badly broken boy. I found the ending a little disappointing and sudden, a small epilogue for in two years time would've been lovely, just to see that they made it as planned and things had continued to improve for them both.
February 15, 2013
I found this book almost beyond words. It's tragic, moving, romantic, horrifying, and beautiful. The caution in the blurb should be taken seriously. There's a lot of the "F" word, and several descriptions that are graphic.
As to who should or shouldn't read it, I can't answer without engaging in spoilers.
The characters are well written, with distinct voices and perspectives. The secondary characters are generally also well developed.
As to the ending, some have commented that it felt rushed. I think the only thing rushed about it is the pull to know more, to continue the narrative at least through November 4th. That said, sometimes you read a book and want a happy ending, sometimes you just want the happiest ending possible given the characters and plot. When I finished this book, I felt happy for Garrett and Ryan. That was enough.
As to who should or shouldn't read it, I can't answer without engaging in spoilers.
The characters are well written, with distinct voices and perspectives. The secondary characters are generally also well developed.
As to the ending, some have commented that it felt rushed. I think the only thing rushed about it is the pull to know more, to continue the narrative at least through November 4th. That said, sometimes you read a book and want a happy ending, sometimes you just want the happiest ending possible given the characters and plot. When I finished this book, I felt happy for Garrett and Ryan. That was enough.
June 28, 2013
I downloaded 366 Days to my Kindle after reading a mention in a review for another book that I read recently. It also did not hurt that the book was 400 pages, as I love longer reads on my Kindle. The main characters are Garrett and Ryan, two high-school sophmores who are not exactly in the closet, but are not exactly "out" either. That was also fun to read in this book, because so many books that feature teen characters focus a large portion of the storytelling on the coming-out process, but not here (because there is a much more complex [dark] story). The book does have a happy ending, but before they get there, one character will have to face his demons. All the characters in the book were likable, except one, and that would be a spoiler (though the character makes an appearance in name only). Its a very good book if you like to read difficult subject matter and break away from the norm.
February 22, 2013
I loved it! I have always had a soft spot for hurt/comfort as well as some drama now and then. This story hits all my buttons, in a good way ; the fluff is sweet and develops over time (there's not so much of it at the beginning), the corniness that appears as the situation develops is endearing and clearly purposely done in response to the character's personality and past. All in all, a heart-warming reading, which I find myself enjoying again and again without tiring of it. All the angst and drama (and be assured that there is plenty of each), as well as the lively depiction of the characters (they feel very close to the reader and alive) helps to maintain a nice rhythm to the story. Maybe the pov-switching can confuse some people though, even if it's clearly indicated each time ; personally, I was not bothered by it. I even thought it added even further dynamism to the telling.
March 17, 2015
This was a much different type of book than I usually read. Not only is it structured much differently -- chronologically rather than the typical chapter/scene; but it is also from the first person / present tense point of view. It should have been a book that I should have hated. That said, it was not... I really fell in love with Ryan and Garrett. Their story was tender... it was angry... it was broken. There was so much about it that tore at my heart; but in the end, it was full on hope and healing and forgiveness.
October 28, 2012
Totally worth reading. The story of Garret and Ryan is adorable. Garret is severely traumatized after being abused by his own brother, what lead him to panic attacks and to his phobias. Ryan is a lovely boy that falls Iin love without even knowing Garret's name. Very touching to follow Garret's progress and the development of their relationship. Wonderful book!!!
May 6, 2013
This book was a tough read. The immediacy of the diary style was very involving, but made already painful experiences that much harder to read about. I adored all the characters m, which does not happen often with me, especially when most of them are teens.
February 16, 2019
I don't want to do this. But my therapist told me I had to either star a journal or find a friend.
It was both disturbing and cute. Even too much sometimes. And it took me quite long to bring back all the memories of how things work when you're 16-17 years old and sincerely ready to spend every second of your time with your significant other. But as soon as I let it go, the book became mostly cute. Basically 366 Days is a story of how one person is all the other person need to solve all the problems.
It was both disturbing and cute. Even too much sometimes. And it took me quite long to bring back all the memories of how things work when you're 16-17 years old and sincerely ready to spend every second of your time with your significant other. But as soon as I let it go, the book became mostly cute. Basically 366 Days is a story of how one person is all the other person need to solve all the problems.
February 7, 2020
Absolutely beautiful
Hands down the best YA gay romance I’ve ever read. Ryan was beyond expectations. I seriously can’t imagine a 16/17-year-old boy being that patient, that kind, that understanding, or that loving, but I want to believe it could be true. The way he loved Sunshine was indescribable. What Sunshine went through, what he had to endure—he deserved having a Ryan in his life, being all his. Their love was beautiful.
Hands down the best YA gay romance I’ve ever read. Ryan was beyond expectations. I seriously can’t imagine a 16/17-year-old boy being that patient, that kind, that understanding, or that loving, but I want to believe it could be true. The way he loved Sunshine was indescribable. What Sunshine went through, what he had to endure—he deserved having a Ryan in his life, being all his. Their love was beautiful.
August 29, 2017
What A Great Read
This is an amazing story, well told. There was nothing I didn't like about it, other than some mis-used and mis-spelled words. There is definitely the potential for a follow-up, which I hope is on the author's agenda.
This is an amazing story, well told. There was nothing I didn't like about it, other than some mis-used and mis-spelled words. There is definitely the potential for a follow-up, which I hope is on the author's agenda.
July 7, 2019
It's a quite unique love story. I enjoyed the reading. It's a bit disappointing that their wedding wasn't included in the story. I wish I could read it and see their happy lives go on. I think the author was a bit too much emphasis on Garrett's fears though. But all to all, it's worth reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2022
Too many nosey characters, couldn't finish
August 19, 2022
Recommended if you are or were a 16 year old wearing a hoodie on an 80+ degree day while listening to MSI. -2 stars if not.
June 3, 2014
Seré honesta, este libro me aburrió y creo que terminé leyéndolo por inercia.
Comenzó bien, aunque la voz de los dos personajes no era que digamos muy interesante y habían cosas que me parecían incongruentes con la personalidad de ellos, pero bueno. Creo que lo peor es la extensión del libro, ya que es una historia que perfectamente podría haberse contado en 200 páginas o menos, pero no las 510 páginas que tiene. Y como suele pasar cuando no hay un buen editor detrás, la historia se alarga como un chicle rancio.
Otra cosa que me molestó es que casi todos los capítulos (o días) comienzan igual: cuando alguien llama a nuestro narrador. O sea "Ryan!" o "Garret?". Y eso de verdad molesta, sobre todo si comienzas a fijarte constantemente en ese detalle como yo.
Pero en fin, al menos terminé de leerlo, eso ya tiene su plus.
Comenzó bien, aunque la voz de los dos personajes no era que digamos muy interesante y habían cosas que me parecían incongruentes con la personalidad de ellos, pero bueno. Creo que lo peor es la extensión del libro, ya que es una historia que perfectamente podría haberse contado en 200 páginas o menos, pero no las 510 páginas que tiene. Y como suele pasar cuando no hay un buen editor detrás, la historia se alarga como un chicle rancio.
Otra cosa que me molestó es que casi todos los capítulos (o días) comienzan igual: cuando alguien llama a nuestro narrador. O sea "Ryan!" o "Garret?". Y eso de verdad molesta, sobre todo si comienzas a fijarte constantemente en ese detalle como yo.
Pero en fin, al menos terminé de leerlo, eso ya tiene su plus.
October 5, 2012
Main character Garrett was from age 11 till age 15 sexually abused from his older brother Victor. Result of it is that Garrett is now very closed down, doesn't allow anyone to touch him and don’t talk much.
New kid in school named Ryan is from starting point very interesting about Garrett and would do anything to get to know him. I did like both main characters.
Problem factors are:
- Story is to dramatic in long run
- MC are 16-17years old which is in my eyes still a kids which should not be dating at all,
- Story is too long,
- Erin character is annoying
- Story got boring at the end.
New kid in school named Ryan is from starting point very interesting about Garrett and would do anything to get to know him. I did like both main characters.
Problem factors are:
- Story is to dramatic in long run
- MC are 16-17years old which is in my eyes still a kids which should not be dating at all,
- Story is too long,
- Erin character is annoying
- Story got boring at the end.
December 21, 2012
I read this book a few days ago and I'm still reeling from it. It is a powerful story of a young man who was a victim of un unspeakable tragedy. But more than that it is a story about hope and trust and patience and faith. Garrett, with the help of some pretty special friends and a boyfriend who won't give up on him, battles his demons and you as a reader get to take this journey with him. One of the best books I've read.
August 25, 2015
This was a very sweet and heartbreaking book. I really liked it. Even thru the downs it was good. I would love to have a book two - maybe meet Victor and get to see Garret take the next steps in his relationship.
January 1, 2015
I've read this book several times since buying it a couple of years ago. It's one of my favorite "re-reads." Many other reviewers have explained the plot, so I won't rehash it. But I agree with many of them... I want a sequel to this book more than just about any other book I've ever read.
February 14, 2016
This was good if you read it without the normal expectations you have for a real, published book. This felt like a really long Wattpad-level book, though one you'd find on the better side of the site. It was pretty juvenile and some parts felt a little unrealistic, but it wasn't an unpleasant read.
September 28, 2012
LOVED this book I found on Amazon. It was worth reading.
April 11, 2015
3.5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews