About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with the complexities of family loyalty versus personal safety, or when they are interested in how historical trauma impacts a community. Set during the 'Summer of Sam' in 1977 New York, the story follows seventeen-year-old Nora Lopez as she navigates a dual-threat environment: a serial killer stalking the city streets and a violent, abusive brother at home. It is a powerful exploration of the 'inner' and 'outer' fires that shape a young woman's path to independence. Parents will find this a valuable resource for discussing domestic violence, the psychological toll of poverty, and the importance of seeking help outside the family unit. Due to the intense themes of physical abuse and historical violence, it is best suited for mature readers aged 14 and up who are ready for a realistic, gritty look at survival and resilience.
