Just Another Girl

Title: JUST ANOTHER GIRL
Author: Melody Carlson
Publisher: Revell
January 2009
ISBN: 978-0-8007-3257-8
Genre: Inspirational/youth

Aster Flynn just wants a life of her own. A middle child, Aster’s older sister, Rose, is working and has a steady boyfriend. Aster’s younger sister, Lily, is mentally challenged, and Aster’s mother and Rose both refuse to be bothered with her. So, even though Lily is fifteen and Aster is seventeen, it is like Lily is Aster’s child, and no one else will even help.

But now a really cute, popular guy has noticed Aster, and Aster wants to date him. Owen has been really cool about Aster’s responsibilities toward Lily, but when Lily ruins their big date, Aster worries that their relationship is through before it even begins.

Is there any hope of Aster having a normal life?

JUST ANOTHER GIRL is a realistically written story about many families today. Aster’s father abandoned the family when Lily was born with problems, and Aster’s mother is stressed by having to work so many hours to provide a living for her family after their father bails and refuses to pay child support. Rose is selfish and only about herself, and Lily has severe challenges that would probably make a saint want to flee. I couldn’t blame Aster to want a chance to get out and have fun and some time away from her high-maintenance sister.

I enjoyed reading JUST ANOTHER GIRL and thought the title was quite appropriate for the story. I wanted Aster to find happiness, and learn how to balance her home life with her quest for independence. I highly recommend JUST ANOTHER GIRL. $9.99. 221 pages.