The YA Book Log

YA Book Review: What I Carry

What I Carry by Jen Longo

Muiriel grew up in the foster care system and is about to age out when she turns 18. Having lived in many homes over the years, she is fiercely independent because she knows she will be on her own when the foster system is finished with her. When she is placed in her final foster home, a small island community outside of Seattle, she tries hard not to get attached to anyone because she knows her time there is limited. As hard as she tries to build walls around herself, it is here where she encounters everything she has always wanted and has been afraid to find.

This is a beautiful story about family, friendship, and loving yourself. Switching between present time and flashbacks to Muir’s years in previous foster homes, we get insight into her past and the foster system. This book will capture you from the first page and you may find yourself reading it in one sitting like I did. Recommended for grades 9 and up. It is available as an E-Book through Nassau Digital Doorway.