I'm The King of the Castle by Susan Hill

*Trigger warning: Book mentions bullying and suicide*

Susan Hill's I'm the King of the Castle is not for everyone. It explores bullying to the most horrific extent as we dive into the relationship between newly-made stepbrothers Edmund Hooper and Charles Kingshaw. Edmund makes clear from the very beginning that Charles is unwanted there and goes to every length possible to isolate and torment Charles. It's hard to believe that such young children are capable of doing and committing such actions. Even so, what is told in this book is not far-fetched, unlikely, or impossible. It is actually all too real as it shows how neglect, selfishness, insensitivity, and ignorance can make even the worst things come true. This book is dark to put it simply but I think it starts a conversation that oftentimes is avoided.