Comment

Aug 02, 2012Ann Langone rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
First person narrative written in verse. LaVaughn is 14 and wants to go-- is determined to go-- to college. She has lots of support from her mother and her teachers and while it will not be easy, she is going to get out. LaVaughn agrees to babysit for 17 year old single mother -2 kids- Jolly because she needs to save money for college. Jolly, with no support, is, of course, a mess. Their unlikely friendship helps Jolly find her way to a better life and gives LaVaughn some important life lessons. I am glad is stuck with this book-- it was recommended by a young patron. Initially, i thought i knew where the story was headed-- yadddah yaddah yaddah-- but i was wrong. The story is not new but it is very real and is told in an honest and truthful way that is hopeful without being deceptively simple or trite. I really enjoyed it and just added the rest of the trilogy to the ya collection. And the verse style really enhances the telling.