TL;DR
Emory Ward tries to hold her family together as they grapple with the aftermath of her brother Joey’s opioid addiction and a drunk-driving accident that has left a classmate dead. The novel explores themes of addiction, grief, guilt, forgiveness, and the complexities of family relationships in a small town.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Kathleen Glasgow is an American young adult fiction writer known for tackling difficult and realistic topics. Her debut novel, “Girl in Pieces,” dealt with self-harm and mental illness. Glasgow’s writing style is characterized by its raw honesty and emotional depth, drawing readers into the inner lives of her characters.
Key Takeaways
Joey’s Addiction and Recovery
The story centers around Joey’s struggle with opioid addiction and his journey towards recovery. It depicts the challenges of overcoming addiction, the impact on his family, and the stigma surrounding it in their small town.
Emory’s Role as the Responsible Sibling
Emory, as Joey’s younger sister, feels the burden of responsibility for her family’s well-being. She navigates her own anxieties and struggles while trying to support her brother and keep the family from falling apart.
Grief and Survivor’s Guilt
The book explores the complex emotions of grief and survivor’s guilt experienced by the characters, particularly Emory and Joey, as they cope with the consequences of the accident.
Family Dynamics and Relationships
The Ward family’s dynamics are strained by Joey’s addiction and the accident. The novel delves into the complexities of their relationships, including the parents’ struggles, the siblings’ bond, and the impact on their extended family.
Small-Town Life and Community
The setting of a small town plays a significant role, highlighting the close-knit community, gossip, and judgment that the Ward family faces.
Forgiveness and Second Chances
The novel raises questions about forgiveness and second chances, both for Joey and for others involved in the accident. It explores the possibility of healing and moving forward after tragedy.
Mental Health and Trauma
The characters grapple with mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as a result of the trauma they have experienced.
Hope and Resilience
Despite the darkness and challenges, the novel ultimately offers a message of hope and resilience. The characters find ways to support each other, cope with their pain, and seek a brighter future.
FAQ about You’d Be Home Now
Is ‘You’d Be Home Now’ a sequel to ‘Girl in Pieces’?
No, ‘You’d Be Home Now’ is a standalone novel with different characters and storyline than ‘Girl in Pieces’.
What age group is this book appropriate for?
Due to mature themes and content, ‘You’d Be Home Now’ is recommended for mature young adult readers, ages 16 and up.
Does the book offer any resources or information about addiction or mental health?
While the book realistically portrays addiction and mental health struggles, it does not directly offer resources. Readers seeking help should consult with professionals or relevant organizations.
You’d Be Home Now Quotes
- ”Sometimes I think the worst part about loving someone isn’t losing them, it’s the feeling that without them, you’ll never be whole again."
- "We all carry scars, Joey. Some of them are just harder to see."
- "Hope is a fragile thing, but it’s also stubborn. It clings on, even when you think it’s gone for good.”