How Does 'We Are The Ants' Explore Mental Health Themes?

The protagonist of 'We Are the Ants' is Henry Denton, a teenager who's grappling with some heavy stuff. Alien abductions are just the tip of the iceberg for him. He's been taken multiple times by these extraterrestrials who've presented him with a bizarre choice: press a button to save the world, or let it end. But Henry's real struggle isn't just about some cosmic decision - it's about dealing with intense grief after his boyfriend Jesse committed suicide. The guilt and pain from that loss colors everything in his life, making him question whether humanity is even worth saving. Henry's home life is equally messy. His older brother is constantly at war with their mother, his grandmother is slipping into dementia, and his absent father occasionally drifts back into their lives to stir up trouble. School's no better - he's bullied relentlessly, and his only friend seems determined to fix him when Henry isn't sure he wants to be fixed. The genius of this book is how it uses the sci-fi premise to explore very real teenage depression. Henry's alien encounters become this brilliant metaphor for how depression makes you feel completely isolated, like you're observing humanity from some distant planet. The most compelling part of Henry's character is his gradual realization that maybe life has meaning despite all the pain. Through his developing relationship with Diego, a new kid at school who's dealing with his own family issues, Henry starts to see glimmers of hope. It's not some dramatic transformation, but these quiet moments where he rediscovers small joys - sketching in his notebook, looking at Diego's artwork, even just sharing a cigarette with someone who understands. The book doesn't offer easy answers, which makes Henry's journey feel painfully real.

In 'Chocolate-Covered Ants', the antagonist isn’t a person but a system—specifically, the ruthless corporate giant 'SweetCo' that monopolizes the candy industry. They exploit small-town confectioners, using legal loopholes to steal recipes and sabotage businesses. The CEO, Leland Graves, acts as the face of this greed, but the real villainy lies in the faceless machinery of capitalism crushing dreams. The story’s tension comes from the protagonists battling an entity that feels unbeatable, where every victory is temporary and every loss devastating. What makes SweetCo terrifying is its realism. It mirrors real-world corporations that prioritize profit over people, draining communities dry. The protagonists aren’t just fighting for their chocolate shop; they’re fighting for autonomy in a world where small joys—like handmade candy—are commodified. The antagonist’s power isn’t supernatural; it’s bureaucratic, financial, and eerily familiar.

I've been following 'We Are the Ants' since its release, and it's impressive how it's been recognized in the literary world. The novel won the 2016 Lambda Literary Award for LGBTQ Children's/Young Adult category, which is a huge deal in queer literature. It was also a finalist for the 2017 Andre Norton Award for Young Adult Science Fiction and Fantasy, showcasing its crossover appeal. The book made the 2017 Rainbow Book List, honoring outstanding LGBTQ+ fiction for teens, and was a nominee for the 2017 Green Mountain Book Award. These accolades highlight its impact on both YA and LGBTQ+ audiences, blending sci-fi elements with raw emotional depth.

I recently finished 'We Are the Ants' and the ending left me with a mix of emotions. It's not a straightforward happy ending, but it's not entirely bleak either. The protagonist, Henry Denton, spends much of the novel grappling with trauma, depression, and the weight of the world ending—literally, since he’s been given the choice to save humanity or let it perish. By the end, Henry makes a decision that feels more about personal growth than global salvation. He chooses to live, to connect with others, and to find meaning in small moments. The final scenes are open-ended but hopeful, suggesting that happiness isn’t a destination but a series of choices. The ambiguity works because it mirrors real life; there’s no neat resolution, just the promise of moving forward. What struck me most was how the author, Shaun David Hutchinson, avoids cheap optimism. Henry’s struggles don’magically vanish, but he learns to carry them differently. The ending leaves room for interpretation, which I appreciate. Some readers might see it as bittersweet, others as quietly triumphant. The lack of a clear-cut 'happy' ending makes it feel more authentic, especially for a story dealing with heavy themes like grief and mental health. It’s the kind of ending that lingers, making you think about your own choices and the weight of existence.

I remember scouring the internet for any news about 'Chocolate-Covered Ants' getting a movie deal because the book’s quirky, dark humor feels perfect for the big screen. So far, no official adaptation exists, but the story’s vivid imagery—like the surreal scene where the protagonist eats literal chocolate-covered ants during a breakdown—would translate brilliantly. The book’s mix of absurdity and raw emotion could make it a cult classic, like 'Napoleon Dynamite' meets 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.' Fans keep petitioning indie studios, hoping someone takes the plunge. Rumors swirl occasionally, especially after the author joked about Tim Burton directing it during an interview. The protagonist’s unreliable narration and the bizarre supporting characters (hello, the neighbor who collects toenails) demand a director with a flair for the eccentric. Until then, we’re left imagining how they’d film the ants—CGI or practical effects? The book’s loyal following means any adaptation would have sky-high expectations.

I remember picking up 'Chocolate-Covered Ants' and being surprised by its structure—it’s not your typical novel. The book spans 42 chapters, but they’re short and punchy, almost like vignettes. Each chapter focuses on a different character’s perspective, weaving together a quirky, interconnected story about a small town’s bizarre obsession with candy-coated insects. The pacing feels brisk because of the chapter length, but the themes deepen as you go. It’s a fun read, especially if you enjoy unconventional storytelling. The final chapters tie everything together in a way that’s both satisfying and slightly unsettling. The author plays with expectations, using the chapter count to mirror the ants’ relentless march—methodical, unexpected, and oddly mesmerizing. You’ll either love or hate the format, but it’s undeniably creative.

Finding 'Chocolate-Covered Ants' online is easier than you might think. Amazon and eBay are solid choices, offering everything from novelty gifts to gourmet insect treats. Specialty shops like Hotlix or Edible Insects have dedicated sections for chocolate-covered critters, often with flavor variations like dark or milk chocolate. For eco-conscious shoppers, platforms like Thrive Market sometimes stock organic options. International buyers can check out Asian or European retailers, though shipping costs might sting. If you’re after a quirky experience, Etsy sellers handcraft these with artistic flair—think ants suspended in cocoa like tiny fossils. Local confectioners occasionally list them on Instagram or Facebook Marketplace too. Just read reviews to avoid sketchy vendors; not all ants are created equal. Some brands even offer subscription boxes for the adventurous snacker.

Ants nesting in plant pots can be frustrating, as they may disturb the soil, damage roots, and attract other pests like aphids. Fortunately, there are proven, natural ways to prevent and eliminate ant colonies in your pots without harming your plants or the environment. This guide provides clear, practical steps to stop ants from nesting in your plant pots for good. Why Do Ants Nest in Plant Pots? Ants are attracted to plant pots mainly because of: Moist, warm soil that provides shelter Food sources like aphids or organic debris Easy access via plant stems or nearby surfaces Controlling ants requires breaking their habitat and food chain while discouraging them from entering your pots. Proven Natural Methods to Stop Ants Nesting in Plant Pots 1. Use Natural Repellents Around the Pot Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade): Sprinkle a thin layer around the pot’s base and soil surface. This powder is abrasive to ants’ exoskeletons, causing them to avoid crossing it. It’s safe for plants and pets but must be kept dry to remain effective. Cinnamon or Coffee Grounds: Spread ground cinnamon or used coffee grounds on the soil surface or around the pot. Their strong, pungent scents disrupt ant trails and repel ants naturally. Citrus Peels: Place fresh lemon, orange, or grapefruit peels on top of the soil or near the pot. The oils in citrus peel are unpleasant to ants and help deter them. Essential Oils: Mix a few drops of peppermint, tea tree, or citronella oil with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist around the pot’s base (avoid spraying directly on the plant). These oils interfere with ants’ scent trails and discourage their activity. 2. Disrupt Ant Trails and Colonies Vinegar Spray: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply around the pot’s exterior and nearby surfaces. Vinegar breaks down ants’ scent trails and discourages foraging. Water Submersion: If feasible, temporarily submerge the entire pot in water (including soil) for 15–30 minutes. This floods the nest, forcing ants to relocate. Be cautious with delicate plants to avoid root damage. 3. Physical Barriers to Block Ant Access Sticky Barriers: Apply commercial sticky substances (e.g., Tanglefoot) around the plant stems or pot rims. These barriers prevent ants from climbing onto the plants and reaching the soil. Water Moat: Place the pot inside a shallow tray filled with water, creating a moat that ants cannot cross. 4. Soil and Pot Maintenance Repot with Fresh Soil: For severe infestations, carefully remove the plant and discard the old soil, which may contain ant colonies. Repot using fresh, sterile soil free of pests. Maintain Proper Drainage and Dry Soil: Ants prefer moist environments. Ensure pots have drainage holes and avoid overwatering to keep soil from becoming too damp. Keep Pots Clean: Remove fallen leaves, food scraps, or other debris that may attract ants. 5. Use Ant Baits as a Last Resort If natural methods fail, use ant baits formulated for outdoor or indoor use. These contain slow-acting toxins that ants carry back to their nest, effectively eliminating the colony. Follow product instructions carefully and keep baits away from pets and children. Additional Tips to Prevent Ants in Plant Pots Prune Surrounding Plants: Trim branches or leaves that touch pots or walls, as ants often use them as bridges. Regularly Inspect Pots: Check pots frequently for early signs of ants or nests and act promptly. Avoid Using Fertilizers That Attract Aphids: Aphids produce honeydew, which attracts ants. Controlling aphids indirectly reduces ant activity. Summary Stopping ants from nesting in your plant pots is best achieved through a combination of natural deterrents, physical barriers, proper watering, and soil maintenance. Start with safe, eco-friendly methods like diatomaceous earth, cinnamon, citrus peels, and essential oils. Disrupt ant trails with vinegar or water submersion if needed, and keep your pots clean and dry to make them less attractive. For stubborn infestations, repotting or targeted ant baits may be necessary. By following these simple steps, you can protect your plants from ants effectively while maintaining a healthy, pest-free environment.