Waiting for Normal

Although written in 2008, this middle-grade novel swept me away. Addy is a strong and spunky main character, who manages to see her glass as half full, despite living in a trailer with her emotionally and physically absent mother (Mommers) who leaves her alone for days, makes promises she can’t keep, and struggles with her own demons. Separated from her two half-sisters and the stepfather she loves, Addy finds her people, unlikely characters who provide the “normal” she craves and needs. Author Leslie Connor handles a difficult topic with nuance and love. This book will inspire you and break your heart at the same time. As a former school principal, I’d highly recommend Waiting for Normal for mother/daughter book clubs, for school or library bookshelves and clubs, and for anyone out there who, like me, somehow missed Waiting for Normal when it won the Schneider Family Book Award. Every word, every sentence, is as timely today as it was when written.

I enjoyed rooting for the girl in this book! I would recommend this book for young adult readers, although I am an adult and an avid reader. It was a quick read for me and I will share this book with my sisters.

I just finished reading the book Waiting for Normal for a second time. Addie, the main character, has such a strong voice and a warm heart she reached out from the pages and pulled me into her story. I found myself on the edge of my seat praying and cheering for Addie to find her place. If you liked the book Because of Winn-Dixie, you'll love Waiting for Normal. Leslie Connor weaves her cast of unique characters together into a beautiful story and reminds us; even a small act of kindness can make a hero out of us all. I urge you to read this wonderful story. My ten year old daughter loved it as much as I did. You won't be disappointed.

Due to life circumstances, I have not been able to read a juvenile novel in over two years. I found this title on Amazon and purchased it. I was able to read it last week and couldn't put it down. Leslie Connor has done a wonderful job of creating a character to care about. I loved this book. I'm going to buy a class set to read with my seventh graders. I'm only sorry that Ms. Connor has just started writing, as I'd like to read more of her work. I can't wait to read the next one! Maybe there'll be a sequel so we can continue to root for Addie.

Spoiler alert: The main character has a leaning disability, while her mother has an untreated bipolar disorder. All she wants is a normal life. She is befriended by non-blood "family", including a gay couple. I liked the casual acceptance of that relationship; it's part of the story but isn't an issue or problem. There's also a beloved friend with cancer, and a death, so it's not a light book, but it has very important ideas, and it's very readable.

My daughter, who does not particularly care for reading, was reading this book through school. She had been keeping me posted on the plot as she was going through the book. I was out of things to read and decided to give it a try. It is really well written and kept me interested throughout the entire book. It is a great read for older kids and I would highly recommend it.

What a beautiful story of the human soul’s ability to create family in difficult circumstances. Addie is the epitome of perseverance and grace. So well written to cheer for everyone and wish the absolute best for this twisting and turning family.

This story kept me reading from beginning to end. The character of Addie and her hapless mother were so realistic as well as the kindness of the strangers that watched over her. She exhibited strength of character beyond her years. Truly an inspiring story for young teen readers.

Got this book for my 13 year old. She was reading something else when it came in so I read it and loved it. Passed it to my friend and her 15 year old daughter who both loved it. My daughter finally read it and also loved it. This young girl’s journey Is inspiring a must read.

This story was engaging and memorable. It made me think what a horrible life the main character (Addie, 12) must have had. It was thought provoking and at one point it made me cry. It has a lot of American vocabulary in it, so I learnt a lot of new words. Read it if you can. Mariella age 10.

Great book. Chose for book club.

good book