Waiting for Normal by Leslie Connor

Addie is waiting for normal. But Addie's mother has an all-or-nothing approach to life: a food fiesta or an empty pantry, her way or no way. All-or-nothing never adds up to normal, and it can't bring Addie all to home, where she wants to be with her half sisters. But Addie never stops hoping that one day, maybe, she'll find normal.

This is my current favorite.

A completely engaging page turner.

Addie lives a life of unknowns.

Will her mother come home tonight are will Addie have to spend yet another night all alone in their trailer?

Will she run out of food before she returns?

Will Grandido find out that Mommers has been leaving Addie all alone again?

Will Addie ever find normal?

The relationship between Addie and her neglectful mother is painful to witness, but I think most students will be drawn to her struggle and her perseverance. Many students will see a reflection of their own lives in Addie's story. Unfortunately I worry that the length of the novel may dissuade those students that really need to, from reading it. But the super short chapters may help.