Hit the Ground Running

Gr 8 Up—Dee Donnelly is left in charge of her little brother Eddie when her father goes missing for six weeks after her mother passes away. When a neighbor reports their situation to child services, social workers come knocking. With the looming fear of separation from her sibling, Dee takes charge, planning a road trip to visit relatives in Canada, where she and Eddie were born. With $498, a bag of food, a beat-up car, and soon-to-expire Canadian passports, Dee and Eddie set off on their adventure. Along the way, they make memorable stops until they are halted at the border. The characters are one-dimensional, but Dee and Eddie are likable protagonists. There are few supporting characters, but those who do make an appearance, will leave a lasting impression on readers. The lack of adults is concerning, yet it enriches the engaging story line. This is a quick read with an abrupt ending that leaves some unanswered questions. Teens will be wishing for more details about the story's conclusion, the journey, and the romance between Dee and Jake, a relative of Dee's uncle.