Sam is 15 years old and coping with having a mother in rehab and a minister father who tends to his congregation more competently than he does to the needs of his own daughter.  In addition to her family issues there is also the tragedy of a missing girl and Sam’s questioning of her faith.

I read this book in one sitting and I loved every page.  It was wonderful to see a complicated and caring portrayl of an alcoholic parent.  Sam’s mother may be flawed, but Sam loves her very much and misses her while she’s in rehab.  It is also refreshing to see a teen character questioning and working through the doubts she has about her faith.  Life isn’t simple and this wonderful novel highlights the nuances inherent in family, faith, and coming of age.  Sam’s story is made more immediate with the drama of a missing girl, causing the novel to become even more of a page turner.    

If this sounds like something you’d like to read, stop by the Teen Services Desk.  I have multiple copies for next month’s Pizza & Pages meeting–which will take place on Tuesday, April 13th at 4pm.  Pick up your copy soon!

~Tricia is the Teen Services Librarian at CPL and is currently reading Sweethearts by Sara Zarr