This was a wonder of a book to read. We can talk about ways to help children who need care, but this author and his family actually do it. Their story pulls you in, and it is movingly written with a humor and optimism which in no way minimizes the plight of the children who are lucky enough to spend time in their household. While not everyone can foster, it is worthwhile to read and be informed of the ways people can and do help. Ultimately, it is worth it to the children.

From the San Francisco Book Review:

Star rating: 5 out of 5

The story of exceptional and gifted beings secretly living among us is timeless; this exhilarating book is an impressive treatment of that classic storyline. The writing is fast and clear, with a well-developed plot and perfect buildup of action and suspense. Interim breathers allow character development and some time for relationships to build, between Natalie and her mother, Natalie and Phillip, and Natalie and her new friend Louisa. Violence is applied with a judicious and conscientious touch; tween readers will understand Natalie's pain for her friends without being overwhelmed. They will sympathize with Natalie's dilemmas and cheer her successes. Our heroine is likeable and human, even when her abnormally strong powers are revealed; her ambivalence about them never devolves to whining or self-pity, even though she faces not only extraordinary evil but also the everyday bullying common to seventh-grade misfits. The backstory for the world is carefully crafted and believable. Natalie's ultimate encounter with her family's archenemy was an eminently satisfying conclusion that wrapped up this section of the story while leaving several avenues to explore in future books in what I assume (and hope) will be a series. Natalie still has room to grow, both in power and emotion; her relationship with Phillip can deepen; there are still secrets and mysteries to be revealed. An outstanding pleasure that tops the ranks of show more tween fantasy.

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This was such a good read! The author does a wonderful job of taking the reader through a journey after death, capturing the sadness, the love, the longing, the wonder, and the profound knowledge that there is so much more to life than meets the eye, and that we must make conscious and sometimes difficult decisions about how to challenge our souls and grow to be our best selves. What a great journey!