A review by leahbrarian
A Song Called Home by Sara Zarr

3.75

A really deft, lovely handling of multiple different, significant issues through the eyes of a narrator whose flaws don't outweigh her clear and sensitive perspective. Lu's relationship with her father and her feelings about her family's financial circumstances are particularly well-portrayed and complex, and the pacing of Lu's growing relationship with Steve was perfect. I did feel as if the plotlines about Lu's stealing, her feelings about God/religion, and her friendships both with Beth and Kyra might have been emotionally clearer, but there is an element of realism to the muddled feelings and tapering momentum that felt true as well. A perfect book for readers whose own lives include alcoholism, new family structure, financial struggles, or big changes, or anyone who's looking for a story that is both hard and hopeful.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC.