About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the complexities of a blended family, or when they feel unheard and invisible within their own home. It is particularly resonant for children dealing with secondary issues like bedwetting or psychosomatic symptoms caused by emotional stress. This gritty, realistic story follows Patsy as she runs away to find her past, escaping a stepfather who she perceives as a threat to her safety and identity. While the 1980s London setting is specific, the themes of autonomy, fear, and the desperate need for a 'safe harbor' are universal. It explores the difficult dynamics of a mother caught between a new husband and her child. Parents should note that this is a heavy, realistic drama that deals with emotional abuse and domestic tension, making it best suited for mature middle schoolers who are ready to discuss the messy realities of family life and the importance of self-advocacy.
