Waiting for Normal by Leslie Connor
by Sam Arnold-Boyd on Feb.21, 2010, under Abuse, Battle of the Books 2010-2011, Mental Health, ORCA, Real life, Sam's Reviews
Who would like this book? This book is perfect for readers who want to read about a young teen who has to figure out how to live with and without her unreliable mother.
Why? Addie, 12, is independent, resourceful, and wants above all to be normal with a normal family. Addie’s life is far from normal because her mom (“Mommers”) is flighty, irresponsible, and prone to disappearing for days. Addie loves her dependable, kind stepdad and her two young stepsisters (“Littles”), but they have moved away and set up Addie and her mom in an ugly trailer in the middle of a vacant lot. Fortunately for Addie, her neighbors who run a gas station/convenience store become her good friends and more of a family than her mom. Addie’s effort to please her mom, her desire to protect her, and her growing awareness of the reality of her situation unfold into a deeply moving story. It would be great to be able to discuss the motivation behind some of her actions. The characters are well-drawn, finding joy in little things and feeling the pain of failure, sickness, and loss. Connor has a keen eye and ear for meaningful details, making this book a good one for anyone interested in writing. Don’t wait to read Waiting for Normal.
This book is a 2011 Battle of the Books selection and a 2011 ORCA nominee.
The details: 290 p. 2008 Review by Samrarian
