About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with their sense of self-worth due to a volatile home environment or is navigating the complicated transition into a foster or 'chosen' family. It speaks directly to the child who uses anger as a shield and needs to see that vulnerability is a form of strength rather than a weakness. Fishkill Carmel is a thirteen year old girl who has survived through fierce self-reliance and physical toughness. When she is taken in by an eccentric classmate and her mother, she must learn how to accept love and stability for the first time. This is a gritty, realistic, and deeply moving story for mature middle schoolers and high schoolers that explores poverty, neglect, and the profound power of found community. It is a raw but ultimately hopeful choice for parents looking to validate a teen's difficult experiences while offering a path toward healing.
