Where the Stars Still Shine by Trish Doller

Where the Stars Still Shine

by Trish Doller

 

Stolen as a child from her large and loving family, and on the run with her mom for more than ten years, Callie has only the barest idea of what normal life might be like. She's never had a home, never gone to school, and has gotten most of her meals from laundromat vending machines. Her dreams are haunted by memories she’d like to forget completely. But when Callie’s mom is finally arrested for kidnapping her, and Callie’s real dad whisks her back to what would have been her life, in a small town in Florida, Callie must find a way to leave the past behind. She must learn to be part of a family. And she must believe that love--even with someone who seems an improbable choice--is more than just a possibility.

Trish Doller writes incredibly real teens, and this searing story of love, betrayal, and how not to lose your mind will resonate with readers who want their stories gritty and utterly true.

 

(summary from goodreads.com)

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This was an unexpected book - much harsher than I was expecting, more reminiscent of Elizabeth Scott than a typical YA book. It dealt with some heartbreaking realities, but I loved the characters and the progression of the characters and the healing. (Warning, this book deals with some serious issues like mental illness and kidnapping and molestation and child abuse. Generally in a palatable way, but certainly evident and key points of the book.)

Mom note: As a mother of readers, I also want to make a note to myself (and others if they care) why I would or would not have my children read this book, because honestly, sometimes I forget. This is a YA book, so everything is within YA strictures. Violence: yes; Profanity: yes; Sex: yes