"Besides humming, reading was the only thing that blocked out Mother, the Quarter, and allowed [her] to experience life outside New Orleans." It is the 1950's and seventeen year old Josie Moraine's mother is a whore. Josie works in a local bookstore where she has lived since she was eleven. She also cleans Willies cat house where her mother works. Her mother is involved with Cincinnati, a ruffian, who has ties with the local mob. Josie's life is filled with troubles. Charlie Marlowe, who has taken care of her since she was little and in whose bookstore she lives/works, has lost his mind after a break-in. A wealthy customers from Tennessee has died in the Quarter and Josie's mom is believed to be involved in his death. Josie would love to attend Smith College in Massachusetts and has the support of her friends. To what lengths is she willing to go to make her dream come true? Does she love Charlie's sons, Richard, or mechanic, Jesse? In this amazing coming of age story, Rita Sepetys has skillfully created a rich tale of "secrets, lies, and the haunting reminder that decisions can shape our destiny"...a peon to true friendship, integrity, and the necessity of being true to oneself.
"Decisions, they shape our destiny."
Gateway Award Preliminary Nominee 2015-16
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