Reviewed by Kylie Buckley
Sixteen-year-old Emory (Emmy) Ward is
part of a wealthy family who lives in a small town. They seem to have it all: a
perfect life… on paper. The story begins with a tragic car accident, involving
Emmy and her brother Joey, which leads to an unravelling of secrets, lies, and
heartache. Joey goes to rehab and Emmy is left to deal with her own physical
and emotional pain.
Emmy is a good girl who has always done what is asked of her, but it has left
her feeling insignificant. She yearns for love and wants to be noticed. When
Joey returns from rehab, Emmy is given the task of carer for her brother to
keep him out of trouble. Her unique bond and love for Joey are ever-present,
but this responsibility is sometimes overwhelming for young Emmy. To add to her
woes, memories from the night of the accident consume her thoughts, friendships
at school cease, and she secretly gets involved with the popular boy next door,
which only intensifies her insecurities and need for belonging.
You’d Be Home Now is a must-read young adult novel
encapsulating a myriad of issues that teenagers face. Its themes include
substance abuse, addiction, social media, first love, friendship, and family
dynamics. Emmy’s story is both captivating and heartbreaking and will stay with
you long after you’ve finished reading. You’d Be Home Now is highly
recommended for an audience 14 years and older.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Buzz Words Books would love to hear what you think.