Passion, then obsession.
While this book uses a familiar trope (teacher and student affair), this book stands out with its unusual structure (instead of chapters, Nelson uses sections with poetic titles) and fluid prose. There are times when almost esoteric vocabulary causes confusion, and when metaphors fall flat (an apartment is described as a pepperoni pizza), but for the most part Teach Me works.
I say it works because the characters, while somewhat fantastical, are relatable. The outrage and devastation of heartbreak and betrayal is palpable in this story. Nelson manages to have us root for a character who is downright shocking at times. Still, we feel her pain, and right with her, we clamour for justice.
Was justice served? Hard to say. I don't think so, but after pain comes healing. Whether or not these characters fully heal (or any of us do) is up for discussion.
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