The subject matter of a mother deciding to throw her own child out of his home may be of concern to some readers. Audrey's response unfortunately mirrors the reality for many contemporary teens who are evicted because they are unable or unwilling to submit to parental expectations regarding conduct or house rules. In terms of the book's plot, Audrey's behavior with regard to Laker is completely consistent with her character for she is more child herself than parent. Consequently, caught in a situation that calls for her to choose between maintaining her relationship with her provider or becoming a provider, the decision is easy. Brooks says that she always attempts to keep healing and hope in mind. Consequently, even though Laker is forced from his home by his mother's decision in the novel's opening section, on the book's last page, he concludes his visit on a...