Waiting for Normal

School Library Journal Best Book * ALA Notable Children’s Book * New York Public Library’s “One Hundred Titles for Reading and Sharing” * Chicago Public Library Best of the Best * Cooperative Children’s Book Center Choice * Connecticut Book Award Winner * American Library Association Schneider Family Book Award Winner

This poignant and joyful novel is filled with meaningful moments and emotional resonance.

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.

Addie’s mother is bipolar, and she often neglects Addie. All-or-nothing never adds up to normal, and it can't bring Addie home, where she wants to be with her half-sisters and her stepfather. But Addie never stops hoping that one day, maybe, she'll find normal.

“A heroine with spunk and spirit offers an inspiring lesson in perseverance and hope. First-rate.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

What does it take to build a life when the person who’s supposed to care for you can’t?
A Mother with Bipolar Disorder: Experience Addie’s struggle with her mother’s unpredictable, "all-or-nothing" lifestyle—from food fiestas to an empty pantry—and the neglect that comes with it.

Found Family: Discover how friendships can blossom in the most unexpected places, like the corner minimart where neighbors become the supportive family Addie has always craved.

Heartfelt Middle Grade Fiction: A poignant and emotional story perfect for young readers navigating complex family problems and learning about empathy and perseverance.

Self-Reliance and Courage: Follow twelve-year-old Addie as she learns to care for herself, creating her own stability while living in a small trailer by the train tracks and never giving up.