It started out innocently enough with a drink provided by her beloved grandmother when she was rather young.
But 15-year-old Bella, narrator of Kathleen Glasgow's The Glass Girl, has found alcohol to be her refuge. She has a lot to deal with. Her grandmother has just died. Her first realad boyfriend has dumped her. After an acrimonious divorce her parents can't be in the same room without fighting. She can see what it's doing to her little sister.
So she uses alcohol 🍸 to take the edge off her feelings. After all doesn't everyone?
Except her grades are slipping. She's alienating her friends. And after a night of partying she nearly dies of alcohol 🍸 poisoning and goes from hospital to rehab.
Bella's narrative reads like she is talking to a trusted best friend. She's vulnerable, likeable, authentic. So I was not surprised to read in the author's note that Bella's experiences mirror her own.
I would highly recommend The Glass Girl to high school and college student, parents, and professionals who work with teens and young adults.
On a purrrsonal note I haven't had a drop of alcohol since the night before my stroke--well over a year and don't miss it. I have no more desire to sip one of Eugene's beers than I have to try Tobago's Fancy Feast. Coffee is a whole different story. I can't have it because it raises my blood pressure. It's a daily battle. I crave it every time I smell it. And before you suggest decaf it is nothing like the real thing plus some decafs contain caffeine. I wonder if I will ever stop craving my favorite beverage.
A great big shout goes out to everyone fighting their substance cravings.
Jules Hathaway
Sent from my U.S.Cellular© Smartphone
