I Am The Swarm by Hayley Chewins

Another wonderful novel in verse! I am simply in awe of this book. The women in Nell’s family have always been magic, going back as far as anyone can remember. Their powers appear when they turn fifteen, and it often feels like a curse. Nell’s mother’s age is constantly shifting, meaning she’s often not old enough to care for Nell properly. Nell’s sister has music in her blood, and she’ll do anything to release it, including hurting herself. Nell has just turned fifteen, and her magic is her feelings manifesting as insects. At first, it seems harmless. Pretty ladybugs that appear with joy. But then there’s more. Glossy beetles that crawl along Nell’s spine with shame when her piano teacher’s roving eyes land on her. Moths that flit about when she’s feeling hopeless. And worst of all is her rage. Her anger that appears as huge wasps. Nell decides that she must bury her bad feelings as deep down as possible. She stops eating, and the hunger briefly drives away the wasps and beetles. But it’s a temporary fix. As R.M. Romero, author of The Ghosts Of Rose Hill, says “I Am The Swarm examines girlhood, family, and adolescence in a vivid, honest, and wholly original light.”
Before reading, keep in mind that this book includes several potentially triggering topics included but not limited too self harm, eating disorders, and sexual harassment toward a minor from an adult. Visit the author’s website for a full list of content warnings.