GREAT READS

Waiting for Normal

Leslie Connor.

Simply one of the best books I've ever read. Addie wants a normal life: normal meals and mealtimes and predictable family routines. She especially wants to belong to a regular family where she can be with her half sisters all the time and not just on certain weekends or holidays. For now though, 12-year-old Addie is living with "Mommers", her somewhat dysfunctional mother, in less than ideal circumstances. This could easily be one of the most depressing stories ever written, but it isn't at all. Addie's character instead makes the story exceptionally uplifting. Her optimism, courage, and inherent self-worth made me so proud of her and made my troubles pale in comparison. Even as I worried for Addie and her guardian angel neighbors, I felt that Addie's indomitable spirit would serve her well for a lifetime. This book is a terrific read for teen through adult.

Recommended by Cheryl Finnan