Waiting for Normal

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the realization that their home life looks different from their peers, or if they are navigating the unpredictability of a parent's mental health or financial instability. It provides a mirror for children who feel they must be the 'adult' in the room and offers a gentle way to discuss the concept of 'chosen family' when biological situations are strained. Addie is a resilient young girl living in a trailer with her impulsive, often neglectful mother. While she longs for the stability of her stepfather and half-sisters, Addie finds ways to create her own sense of 'normal' through music, neighbors, and her own inner strength. It is a deeply empathetic look at neglect and poverty that remains profoundly hopeful rather than bleak, making it an excellent choice for mature middle-grade readers who appreciate realistic, character-driven stories.