Orbiting Jupiter

Some of my favorite books come from the mind of Gary D. Schmidt, but they always have some heartbreaking element to them. This one is no different. This is the story of Joseph, who after being removed from an abusive father and having a baby with the love of his life (in 8^th grade) winds up with Jack’s family. Joseph is troubled. All her wants it to have his daughter Jupiter, but no one thinks he could take care of her. They want to put her up for adoption. Joseph sets out to find her, so he can see her. Jack has his back. He and Joseph become like brothers and as Joseph settles into life with his new family, he begins to blossom. But his abusive father won’t give him up that easily and sets Joseph off on a quest for his daughter. He tells his story along the way. I won’t say any more, terrible things happen that will break your heart, but the end will put it back together- albeit a bit battered. This is a beautifully told story, with some lines that will stick with me for a long time. Get some tissues, set aside an hour and treat yourself to this little gem. Happy reading my friends.