Review Detail

Pamela is dead, finally, and her younger sister Em is relieved/devastated/relieved/sad but mostly relieved. Em and Pamela ran away from home after their mother died, and their father remarried. Em's life with Pamela was hardly an improvement over the bleak existence at home since Pamela had mental problems which caused her to abuse Em physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Em's story, intense and emotional, is difficult to read at times. There seems to be no way out for Em, who can't find lasting work because Pamela kept her from school and has no friends due to her isolation. Pamela's disability check at least paid for rent and some food; after Pamela dies, Em has no money. The book is riveting, though, partly because the reader is pulled so adeptly into Em's mind--and it ends on a realistic yet uplifting and hopeful note. Em will haunt the reader long after "The End."

This book was originally published in 1997; it's been re-released in a special anniversary edition. In its original printing, it won a slew of awards, including ALA Best Book for Young Adults, School Library Journal Best Book, and ALA Booklist Editors' Choice. This edition features a fascinating interview with author Norma Fox Mazer.
Very highly recommended.