To Baby, the outside world is a cold and lonely place. He has lived most of his life as a member of the silent, enigmatic group that calls itself the Clan—scorned and feared by classmates and neighbors.
It's up to Casey to see to it that Baby isn't alone when he's the only Clan member of his mysterious group to be placed in their high school's honors classes. She's his guide into the mainstream—a pretty, well-liked girl who wants to do the right thing. Like the rest of the Clan, Baby has never before participated in school. She helps him find a path; she makes it possible for him to see the Clan with a sharp outside light.
But what Baby is doing threatens both Clan and the Cribs, and it isn't long before Baby's and Casey's familiar worlds are shattered.
Kristen D. Randle has written a story that is absorbing and unusual, insightful and outspoken, about two teenagers whose lives become intertwined—and a collision that forces them to make difficult choices.
From Booklist: (starred review)
When 17-year-old Casey Willardson agrees to tutor Thomas Fairbairn, family and friends think she's crazy--and in danger. But as Casey and Thomas get to know each other, labels and preconceptions fall away, resulting in a deep understanding of shared human experiences and emotions, and ultimately a rewarding love that challenges both teens' long-held beliefs. This modern, insightful Romeo and Juliet story is a rare and notable contribution to the teen fiction genre. The alternating points of view and Randle's taut, poetic prose provide remarkable character depth and complexity. Thomas, in particular, is a fascinating character, whose conversations embody the joy of learning and incorporate the works of classic philosophers and writers in ways that may show readers the relevance and rewards of learning the masters. Gritty, smart, and realistic, the novel perceptively explores issues of religion, sex and sexual abstinence, peer pressure, and integrity with grace and compassion. Despite some religious overtones, there is no preaching here, only a well-communicated respect for making comfortable personal life choices, and allowing others the opportunity to do the same. A story of morality without judgment, this will encourage teens to look beyond appearances and deep within their own hearts. Shelle Rosenfeld -
