Writing As A Public Service

In "Flirtin with the Monster," a series of critical essays about the works of Ellen Hopkins, particularly her bestselling books, "Crank" and "Glass," there is a sentiment that is often repeated from the independent contributors. Many felt that Hopkins was courageous in airing a personal tragedy that almost destroyed her family in order to provide information that would serve as a deterrent for other youngsters who are being tempted by drugs, in particular methamphetamine.

In her piece entitled, "The Secret's Out," Terri Clark lauds Hopkins for bringing raw honesty to a problem that many teens and parents are not aware of. By describing the debilitating impact of a meth addiction in vivid and graphic detail, Hopkins' works can serve as a wake-up call to child and parent alike. Also praising Hopkins for bringing realism to a real problem is Judge John Tatro who cites...