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