About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is shouldering adult burdens or struggling with a family member's mental instability or extremist beliefs. This poignant story follows Rooney Harris, a high school senior who finds herself acting as the de facto head of household while her mother becomes increasingly lost in a doomsday cult. It explores the heavy weight of parentification, the fierce bond between siblings, and the tension between pursuing one's own future and feeling responsible for family survival. While the subject matter of cults and financial instability is serious, the book remains grounded in a realistic, empathetic portrayal of a young person's resilience. It is best suited for older middle schoolers and high school students who are ready to navigate complex themes of loyalty, agency, and the difficult realization that parents are fallible human beings.
