Chapter 5 Summary

Astrid is taken to her permanent placement in Tujunga. It is a house that is part trailer. The woman's name is Starr, and she lives with four children. Davey and Carolee are Starr's real children, and Owen and Peter are foster children like Astrid. Davey is very smart and is interested in studying wildlife. Carolee, a sullen sixteen-year-old girl, mocks her mother as the children listen to her making love with her hippie boyfriend. She hangs out with a wild crowd.

Starr talks constantly about how Jesus saved her life. However, her actions and clothing do not match her fervor to be free from the "sin virus." Astrid is thirteen now. One year has passed since her mother's trial and all the sessions, questions, medication and caseworkers. Starr is taking Astrid and Carolee clothes shopping. Carolee is embarrassed by her mother and her...