A loan from a coworker who is a foster parent, who thought of me as my partner and I just finished classes. I went into this narrative nonfiction account with a lot of skepticism due to the pulpy cover and title. I was happy to find that the author tries to be very fair to all parties, including parents, while also revealing some of her own human failings (we all have judgmental thoughts and these were presented as such). I found it very helpful to hear day to day accounts of fostering, navigating systems, cooperating with family and other caretakers. I also thought the author seems to be very generous towards young people and their needs, giving room for missteps and forgiveness, and advocating for their rights. A lot of positive youth development principles in practice. A quick and engaging read for me since I am hungry for anything instructive on my possible foster experience. Only ranking 3 stars though as I’m not sure how ethical this based on true life story writing can be.

This is my first book by this author and I felt it lacked emotion. Also I found it took me a bit to get used to the language and phrasing as they are different in Canada.