One for the Murphys, by Lynda Mullaly Hunt - a heartfelt story about family (ages 10 - 14)

I sometimes find myself wondering, what does it mean to be a good mother? From a child's perspective, what does a mother do? Wash, iron, make lunches? No, I really don't think that's it. A mother's willing to fight for you, to stand up for you, to know when you're down and can stop to listen. Lynda Mullaly Hunt's debut novel, One for the Murphys, will touch kids, perhaps make them cry, but it will also start them thinking. What does it mean to stand up for your family?

I am excited to share One for the Murphys here today. In a post later today, Lynda will share her own thoughts reading with her children. The sign of a good book? I want to start buying a copy for many of my friends (Talia, a copy is on it's way to you already!).

One for the Murphys
by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
NY: Nancy Paulsen Books / Penguin, 2012
ages 10 - 14
available at your local library, my favorite bookstore and on Amazon

“My fingers play with my hospital bracelet. I stare at my name. Carley Connors. Thirteen letters. How unlucky can one person be?” Thirteen-year old Carley Connors works hard to keep her feelings completely hidden in order to protect herself. After all, her mother taught her how to be street smart and tough on the streets of Vegas. But her step-father has beaten her terribly, and now, Carley finds herself taken from her mother.

There’s so much anger swirling around inside Carley that she can’t let herself get close to her foster family, the Murphy’s. And yet, she finds herself watching this loving family, struggling to understand their unconditional love, and longing to be part of their family.

Little Michael Eric is the first to connect with Carley, with his innocent superhero play, but Mrs. Murphy’s patience and knowing love do finally reach through. As Carley’s caustic exterior starts to soften, she starts to understand what it means to belong - until her own mother decides that she wants Carley back.

Debut novelist Lynda Mullaly Hunt creates fully realized characters, with authentic first person narrative and snappy dialog. This is not a story with easy answers. By the end, readers will celebrate Carley’s strength and growth, even as they struggle with the difficult path she has in front of her.

Visit Great Kid Books tomorrow to read a lovely guest post by Lynda, reflecting on her own experiences reading with her children. See Lynda's blog for a full schedule of the One for the Murphys blog tour.

The review copy was kindly sent by the publishers, Nancy Paulsen Books / Penguin. If you make a purchase using the Amazon links on this site, a small portion goes to Great Kid Books (at no cost to you!). Thank you for your support.

Review ©2012 Mary Ann Scheuer, Great Kid Books