Review Detail

A sensible theme that is well done in so many ways. Short chapters, easy to read with paragraph breaks, too.

The author dives us into a very sad situation. Eleven-year-old Hank has been home alone with his three-year-old sister for a week now because their mom left, and they don't know what happened. Now, they will be evicted.

The boy is very careful, protective, responsible, polite, shy, kind, smart... and does all he can for his sister while trying to find their Mom without alerting the "System". He doesn't want to be separated from his little sister.

He knows when to ask for help and to accept it even when the person is a bit unfair and too strict. His fear and anxiety to make all things better make him very obedient and quiet. The way the boy holds all inside is very emotional.
More characters have a positive influence on their situation.

Hank has to attend a new school and make new friends even a romantic interest, but it's hard to be selfish, and he is always feeling guilty. Themes like stress, anxiety, and insomnia in children from worrying too much about adult stuff. Also irresponsible and absent parents, and foster care. Although the elder taking care of them (temporarily), looks mean, she also has her fears, and she does what she can thinking to be best for them.

I am glad for a realistic and good ending.

I got a copy for an honest review.
Cover art 3