I really dislike the dual system presented, that not all kids would be given the option to go reform themselves with mentors over going to prison presents the justice system as incredibly unjust with preferential treatment going to certain groups. I also read in multiple locations (but didn't verify) that a lot of the traditions included were fictional practices. If you're going to present something as a cultural representation you think it would be accurate with reality?

Cole was a great character in that he felt very real, moody, dislikeable, angry. All the qualities that you do find in very trouble kids with poor home lives and a lot of baggage. I disliked that it was the bear attack that really changed him or started him down the path of change as well. As someone presenting this to kids, some of whom are troubled Iif I got to choose I would want a totally internal change guided by adult mentors. Which is way more relatable or achievable than "go out into a forest get attacked by a bear and survive".

I have pretty mixed opinions overall about the book for every bad there is a good and vice versa.

This was not a pleasure read it is a teaching read and that always takes away from the story a bit. As a teaching tool, it's pretty good because of how obvious the themes and character arcs are, but I still would rather teach Holes or some of the other grade 9 material.