FIREBIRD CAGED

A pregnant teen undergoes a harrowing journey in a county juvenile shelter in this accessibly written, drama-filled novel.

High school senior Ashley Muller has moved with her divorced mother to a small town several hours away from Milwaukee. Her mom, who became pregnant with Ashley at 16, didn’t go to college, but she hopes that Ashley will stay focused and get a degree. After Ashley discovers she’s pregnant with ex-boyfriend Danny Morales’ child, she decides she’ll keep the baby. Her mom (who was pressured by her own religious parents to give Ashley up for adoption) is concerned for Ashley’s future and at first suggests an abortion. After their landlord evicts them, Ashley stays with Madi Wendt, a wealthy friend who offers her Xanax for a panic attack. When Ashley takes it again to help her sleep, she seeks mental health support from a doctor, who pressures her to enter an in-patient rehab center. Ashley refuses, and the police take her into custody for child neglect. Meanwhile, Danny takes his paternal responsibilities seriously, getting a job and saving for the baby. This believably told story thoughtfully examines inequities that leave a caring teen mother without support while purporting to protect her child. Ashley’s inspiration from the ballet The Firebird is woven throughout this important work about a young woman who doesn’t give up despite tremendous odds. Ashley and Madi read white; Danny is cued Latine.

A poignant, heartbreaking tale that will keep reluctant readers riveted.