About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels like an outsider, struggles with a prickly exterior, or is navigating the complicated realization that adults are often imperfect. It is a powerful choice for families going through transitions or for children who use defiance as a shield to protect themselves from hurt. The story follows Gilly, a brilliant but difficult foster child who has spent years perfecting a tough persona while dreaming of a fantasy reunion with her biological mother. While the book is deeply funny, it is also a masterclass in emotional realism. It explores the messy nature of love, the pain of disappointment, and the difference between the family we imagine and the family that actually shows up for us. Parents should be aware that Gilly initially uses prejudiced language and manipulative tactics, but these are essential to her growth as she learns to see others as human beings. It is a profound, award-winning story that offers comfort to any child who feels like a 'tough case.'
