Cruise Control

Family life for 16-year-old Gussie is anything but nurturing. His father constantly criticizes him, his mother is an alcoholic and his sister Annie is in her own world. Gussie and his younger brother Jimbo share a supportive relationship, helping each other cope with their depressing home life. There are a few perks in Gussie's life: the time he spends with his friend Frances; the moments when a happier side of his mother emerges; and his new friendship with a girl named Flame. Flame and Gussie are both wanderersthey are unhappy with their present lives, yet they have no goals for the future. Finally Gussie, Jimbo and Flame escape and head south. Their journey brings hope both for Flame's future and Gussie's family. The characters and their relationships to one another are among the finer points in this sensitively written novel. Readers will identify with Gussie's growing frustrations and admire his strength and devotion to the members of his family, despite their flaws. Ages 12-up. (September)