A very enjoyable book. Carley is a very likable character.

Carley Connors has spent most of her 12 years living with her mother in Las Vegas where she learned to take care of herself and her mother. However, her new stepfather changes their lives. After a vicious beating, Carley's mother must spend a long time in hospital and when Carley is released from hospital, she must go into foster care. Carley is the Murphys' first foster child and the three boys and their dad aren't convinced it's such a good idea, especially Daniel, who is nearly the same age as Carley. Mrs. Murphy is kind and understanding, which confuses Carley who can't figure out why this stranger would care about her. When Carley runs away, Mrs. Murphy, aka Julie, (Carley observes that the last four letters in 'Julie' are ' u lie'), goes after her and brings her back. All Carley wants is to leave, find her mom and go back to their old life in Las Vegas but there are memories, bad memories, of her mother, from the evening when her stepfather beat them. Reviewed by BPL volunteer LS.

Good 3 tissue book about a foster child. JH

Heartwarming and adorable: a very sweet, lighthearted read. Although written in simple prose, the emotional impacts on Carley and her slow maturity is protrayed realistically and beautifully. Recommend "I'll Be There" by Holly Sloan if you loved this.

loved this book! great for kids and adults. easy to read, good story, good characters.

You'll find yourself rooting for Carley Connors, a 12-year-old child who, upon being discharged from the hospital, is placed into foster care with the Murphy family. Over the course of several months, Carley learns to shed some of her emotional armor, with the help of Mrs. Murphy, and to realize some of the gifts she brings once she feels safe. Realistic, well-written, at poignant, with well-drawn and believable characters.

This is a well written book about a kid that was placed in temporary foster care. This book resonate with me, because I was lucky enought to have had a Ms. Murphy in my life.