Author: Sheila Kelly Welch
Series: None
Publisher: Namelos
Released: September 30, 2011
Website: http://www.scbwi-illinois.org/Welch.html
Book Summary:
T.J. has always looked out for his little sister, Angela. When Momma used to go out and leave them home alone, he'd lock the door so they'd be safe, keep Angela entertained, and get out the cereal and milk for her. When Momma's boyfriend got angry at them, he'd try to protect Angela. Later, at their foster homes, T.J. was the only one who knew how to coax his little sister out of her bad moods. The only one who understood why she made origami paper cranes and threw them out the window.
But now T.J. is sitting in the waiting room at the hospital, wondering if Angela, unconscious after a fall, will ever wake up. Wondering, too, if he will ever feel at home with his and Angela's new parents—Marlene, who insists on calling him Timothy, and Dan, who seems to want a different son.
Going back and forth between Now and Then, weaving the uncertain present with the painful past, T.J.'s story unfolds, and with the unfolding comes a new understanding of how to move forward.
I was honestly surprised by how much I ended up liking this book especially considering the subject matter. Waiting to Forget is a well written story about two young children who have been neglected by their selfish, sometimes abusive, mother. It is a touching, heart-breaking read. Written in an alternating Then, Now and Between Then and Now format this book hooked me from the beginning. The author shared just enough details to let you know about their struggles without being too graphic or overdone.
Although this book is quite different from my usual reads I was glad I read it. The ultimate message was one more than just survival, it was about second chances and moving beyond the past to a better future.
Recommended to those who enjoy contemporary, realistic fiction that deals with something other than teen romance.
Rating: 4 Stars - Great Book
Content: a couple swear words
Source: Ebook from Author
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Other Books by Sheila Kelly Welch
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This sounds like a poignant story. I get the feeling a couple of tissues may be necessary when reading this one.
ReplyDeleteKathy, thanks for reading and commenting on my book. You certainly are a good writer as well as reader!
ReplyDeleteAngela, I hope you have a chance to read Waiting to Forget. Although it's fiction, it was inspired by my experience with children like Angela and T.J. And, to be honest, I needed a few tissues while writing it.
I don't normally read books that hit too close o home or are too real but this has intrigued me. I have added it to my TBR list. I especially like the idea of the Now and Then format.
ReplyDeleteSunday,
DeleteGlad you are intrigued. After you've read it, let me know what you think of it.