Fourteen-year-old Julian's parents separated when he was a baby and he is still angry and hurt.
His mother has had relationships since--all of which have ended disastrously—but this time it seems serious. Jean-Paul looks like he might be the real thing. Julian is wary—and critical—as he comes to terms with the fact that he and his brother may have to let down their defenses and allow their mother to find happiness. On a road trip with his mother and her new beau, Julian finds that love—and happiness—come in many guises. In the end, he realizes that it is not blood that determines true family, but the willingness to stand together.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for teen readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!
Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Our Choice, starred selection | 2003 | Commended
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"Fitch continues to display her love of sounds and words that she has so aptly demonstrated in her poetry...The use of italics, capitalization, slang, and reference to popular culture lends to the oral nature of this slight novel."
"Teenage boys who are still at a very early stage as readers will be attracted to his brash, angry voice, his fierce protection of his mother and his ultimate success...Struggling male readers will welcome is length and its focus on emotions and relationships. Recommended."