On one evening several girls attempt to flee the prison, during which time Amber has a paranormal experience, through which she meets Violet.

Despite having the opportunity to flee, Amber chooses to remain at the prison but is put in solitary confinement after she accidentally assaults a guard.

It is eventually revealed that Amber poisoned the girls' peas and that the murdered prisoners can return to the living world if somebody dies, claiming their guilt.

[5][6] The New York Times gave a favorable review for The Walls Around Us, which they felt was "intricately plotted" and contained "evocative language".

[7] The Chicago Tribune also praised the book, writing "Nova Ren Suma's prose hums with such power and fury that when the explosions do happen, they seem unavoidable.

Even if readers puzzle a bit over the plot specifics, they will find much here that is satisfying, disturbing and hard to forget.