Flyaway

Flyaway by Helen Landalf tells the story of fifteen year old Stevie whose mother is a meth addict.  Stevie is taken in by her aunt when her mother doesn't come home.  Stevie comes to grip with the reality of her life and her mothers addiction over the summer while also helping out at a bird hospital.

This is a terrific teen contemporary novel that will speak to reluctant readers.  Helen is a flawed character who doesn't always make the right decisions but who continues to grow who will speak to readers who can't relate to the perfect teen character.  The book is short and easy to read and shows how drugs can hurt without being preachy.

Appropriateness:  There is teen behavior in this book but it is handled in a manner that uses the negatives as a teaching tool.  The main character's mother is a stripper and a drug addict and her best friend is becoming addicted to meth.  Stevie lies and steals and acts out but is ultimately a good girl.  I'd recommend this book to readers 13+