One for the Murphys by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Twelve-year-old Carley Connors can take a lot. Growing up in Las Vegas with her fun-loving mother, she's learned to be tough. But she never expected a betrayal that would land her in a foster care. When she's placed with the Murphys, a lively family with three boys, she's blindsided. Do happy families really exist? Carley knows she could never belong in their world, so she keeps her distance.

It's easy to stay suspicious of Daniel, the brother who is almost her age and is resentful she's there. But Mrs. Murphy makes her feel heard and seen for the first time, and the two younger boys seem determined to work their way into her heart. Before she knows it, Carley is protecting the boys from a neighborhood bully and even teaching Daniel how to play basketball. Then just when she's feeling like she could truly be one of the Murphys, news from her mother shakes her world.

Paperback, 224 pages

Published January 1, 2012

 by Puffin

5/5 stars

Published back in 2012 I can easily see how this was the recipient of many awards.  It is a gripping story of a 12-year-old who enters a foster home.

After being hospitalized, along with her mother Carly is sent to a foster home that consist of three boys, mom and dad. This was such a realistic, heartfelt story as Carly adjusted to the new situation and sees that  happy families actually do exist. They get off to a rocky start as her emotions are all over the place, it's not just a big adjustment for Carly but the family as well.

I really enjoyed this book. It’s not long, 224 pages, but packs a punch that is authentic and well written.  I connected with the characters, rooted for all of them. The storyline was emotional, funny at times with some good banter. A touching story that highlights how a gentle soul can change much.

This book was part of my 2024 Reading Off My Shelf Challenge