All the Impossible Things

Red has been in foster care since her mother went to prison two years ago, but she only has a little over a year left to endure the trial of group homes and families who don't really care about her.  Things were better when she lived with her grandmother, but now that Gamma is dead and Mom is in prison, there's no one left for Red.

She has no desire to connect to this new foster home or her newest set of temporary guardians.  Celine and Jackson are different, and they aren't put off by Red's prickly self-defense system.  They own and live at a petting zoo full of interesting creatures including Tuck, the tortoise.  Despite herself, Red feels an instant connection with the large animal and his scars evidencing his traumatic past. 

Red also has a secret gift that feels more like a curse.  The wind moves according to her emotions, and her emotions are generally stormy.  She is working hard to control this ability, but the more upset she is about her situation, the worse the weather is. 

Just as she starts to find her way with Jackson and Celine, her mother blows back into her life.  Her greatest wish has been granted, but will it be the happy ending she's been counting on?

Lindsay Lackey's debut novel is a bittersweet gem perfect for fans of Katherine Applegate and Dan Gemeinhart.  Despite the magical realism of Red's ability, Lackey deals with some heavy issues in a  realistic way,  Unfortunately, adults let down the kids in their lives all the time, and too many young children who should be protected have already dealt with terrible trauma.  This book reminds us there is always hope.  Highly recommended.