Being Fishkill

I read a review of this book and it sounded unlike something I would normally read but I took a chance. This is the story of Carmel Fishkill, who was named as her teenage mother was giving birth on the freeway near the Carmel, Fishkill exit. Thus begins the devastating tale of Fishkill's life. Raised by an abusive grandfather and equally abusive mother, Fishkill has had to develop survival skills. Be tough, don't cry, strike first, don't get attached. This works fine until she meets Duck Duck- her gang name. She quickly initiates Fishkill into her gang and brings her home to Molly. Molly watches Fishkill with her 'squinty blue eyes' and realizes that this girl is on her own and in need of a family. As Fishkill learns to trust Molly and Duck Duck she realizes that family isn't what she was raised to believe. It is pink sheets, roasted chicken and hugs. But Fishkill doesn't trust this will last and has one foot out the door. And then her mother comes back and throws a wrench in the happy life Fishkill was making for herself. As the book cover says, tragedy ensues and Fishkill must find her way back from despair to try and create home for herself among strangers who have every right to hate her. This book was both funny and heartbreaking in turns. Fishkill's life lessons are so spot on as to be crushing. And Duck Duck's zest for life is inspiring. So I recommend this book as long as you have some tissues handy, it will stay with you for a while. Happy reading my friends.