Gone from Home: Short Takes

“In these 12 well-honed stories told in first-person narrative, Johnson zeroes in on the idealism and resiliency that make young people a powerful force in the world. Despite their rough circumstances, these characters have a keen and refreshing sense of justice that helps them recognize-and perform-compassionate acts… . Johnson’s flavorful language will draw readers immediately into the brief, emotion-packed dramas. And after entering the often harsh and humbling worlds Johnson describes, readers will agree with the narrator of ‘By the Time You Read This’: ‘Some people come into your life and do nothing but make it better. They help you see what you may become. They foster growth and health in all things.'”-Publishers Weekly, Starred “A beautiful collection … peopled with characters … whom teens will recognize and relate to. This book would make a fine addition to any short-story collection.”-School Library Journal, Starred