After years of neglect, Ruby's mother has abandoned her, and now Ruby has to live with her estranged sister, Cora, whom she hasn't seen in ten years. Cora and her husband offer Ruby a stable home life and a fresh start at a new school. Ruby's independent streak is strong, though, and she attempts to run away the very night she arrives. A friendly (and cute) neighbor boy named Nate covers for her when she's nearly caught, and suddenly Ruby may have a compelling reason to stay.
Summary When authorities discover that Ruby has been abandoned by her mother, she is sent to live with Cora, a sister she hasn’t seen in ten years. The years with her mother have taught Ruby to expect the worst and never to trust—or care for—anyone, lessons she has difficulty unlearning as she struggles to accept the changes in her life.
Topics Houses. Mothers. Dishonesty. Child services. Dog training. Escape. Neighbors. Jobs. New schools. Memories. Songs. Abusive parents. Drug use. Car pools. Friendship. School cliques. Boyfriends. Shopping. Job interviews. Parties. College applications. Fish. Control freaks. Wedding invitations. Getting drunk. Betrayal. Anger. Apologies. The movies. Needing help. Personal services companies. Thanksgiving. Anxiety. Jewelry. Swimming. Christmas. Gifts. Denial. Exams. Valentine's Day. Breakups. Web sites. Disappearances. Helping others. Acceptance.
SRC Level 5.500000
SRC Points 26.000000
Lexile 840L
Trim Size 5 1/2" x 8 1/4"
Language English
JLG Release Date Apr 2008
Minimum grade 9
Maximum grade 12
Reading level High
Format Print
Young Adult (Grades 9 & Up)
Young Adult
Young Adult (Grades 9 & Up)
For Grades 9 & Up
Your older teen readers will appreciate the 12 selections in this category, a diverse mix of fiction and nonfiction covering complex issues and more mature content, from crushes and body changes to friendships and sibling rivalry.