This book really makes me think, and it is important to read, every so often, something that makes you question life and other large questions. For me, it makes me wonder why certain people, like Zoe, are born into the most difficult lot in life possible, and why it is usually family that makes you test your strength, will, and emotional reserves to fight them for your own independence!? If Mama hadn't lost "the love of her life" would she have spiralled downward, trying to take her children with her? If Zoe wasn't there, what would have happened to Kyle? And if Grandma would only LISTEN to what Zoe was saying, couldn't she see that her favorite daughter, the "miracle child," was ruining her own children's lives?!?
I really see a lot Zoe's misfortunes in the lives of young adults, though to a lesser degree. Adults don't really understand what is going on in the youth of America, and the world, today. They don't see and they don't, probably, want to see! Adolescents have to work, for the most part, to supplement the family income! It is crazy how many students lead double or triple lives, trying to juggle more than we could probably imagine (I was one of them!), and yet, our demands for them only increase and make their burdens heavier.
"If only" seems to be a common factor in Zoe's life and her issues with her family. She is tough and strong, but ALONE, and if only she had someone to tell everything to, she might be able to regain her sense of community with at least another soul!
I'm more than halfway done with the book, so don't spoil it tonight!!
Dawn :)
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