12 year-old Timonthy is writing in his journal. He doesn't want to do it, but his probation officer and psychologist told him he had to in order to ensure the judge his actions wouldn't be repeated.
What he did wasn't felonious, according to him. All he did was swipe someone's credit card and make a $1000.00 purchase on it. But it wasn't for him, it was for his sick baby brother Levi. And well, for his mom too, who is working two jobs on her own to make ends meet.
They still don't have enough food. Timothy is still in need of clothes that fit him.
Timothy remembers one of the last best moment of his life. It was the day Levi was born. His dad was so excited and proud to become a father again. But life changed. Levi was born with only a small hole in his trachea. Because of this he has to have constant care and attention.
His dad couldn't handle it, so he left....
Now, Timothy and his mother are doing all they can to make sure Levi stays alive and breathing, including doing all of the nasty stuff, including suctioning mucus, cleaning up constant throw-up, and listening to the sound of the breathing machine.
Now, he's under house arrest, but couldn't love his baby brother more. His love is very protective too, including when a nurse comes in and Timothy knows she's not doing her job. He also protects himself from letting people, including Mrs. B and Officer James, know too much. They don't need help, or do they? His best friend Jose, and his family, help out. And then there's the mysterious benefactor leaving amazing stuff on their front door. And slowly but surely, Timothy is cracking, and his journal reveals to those who are helping in just how much he truly needs, both physically and emotionally.
But his baby brother is still getting very ill, making ICU visits a regular thing. How long before his mother implodes? What can a 12 year old kid do?
This quick novel in verse will take your through a one year journey of brotherly love and sacrifice. It will also take you on the journey of one young man's self-awareness and the grit and determination he has to make sure family stays together. You hear his joy, but you will also hear his pain, anger, and desperation. Be ready....this may make you cry, a definite sign of an excellent book. Highly recommended addition to any junior high or high school collection.
1 comment:
Reading your review made me tear up all over again and I read the book.
It's a treasure that shouldn't be missed.
We had 2 grade levels "duking" it out for the NYC Reads 365 list, which is put out annually by the NYC DOE.
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