First of all, thank you to Henry Holt Publishing for donating books to NCTE/ALAN 2020. I am so glad I got this in my book box. Secondly, what a beautiful cover!
Ellie, age seventeen, shares her story in the form of letters to Momma, August, Father, Depression, and more. Ellie is already gone. She committed suicide, and she uses the letters to explain why and to also make sense of her actions to herself.
Life with Momma didn't used to include her father. Ellie didn't think anything was lacking. She and her mother shared good times and adventures she still remembers. Then one day his car was in the driveway. That's when life took a dark turn.
After he arrived, Ellie remembers nights with her head hidden under her pillow to block out the slaps and the sobs her mother tried to drown out with the sound of the shower. The next morning Momma would apply makeup to cover the bruises before she left for work. That night would repeat like Groundhog's Day.
The only thing that makes life bearable is August. His smile and kind words and attention give Ellie a reason to carry on. That is until the day Ellie realizes she may never be able to escape.
Author Rocky Callen writes a sad yet courageous novel about Ellie's struggle and eventual end. Though her journey ends, she inspires a simple courage in those left behind.
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