There's a fine line between examining pathos, exploring causes of behaviors and addictions, and sensationalism .This book tends towards the latter. While its purpose is decent and the protagonist is largely sympathetic, I found I didn't stay engaged with the plot. While linear, the plot covers a long time span and is presented as refelections and recollections of various characters. We are never truly in the moment.

Blood Family by Anne Fine is a middle grade children's fiction story about a boy who was abused at a young age and now strives to maintain a normal life with a new family.

At first, the story was interesting to me, yet seemed to lose its spark and pick back up again in part 3 and beyond. I was engaged for about half the book, but the story just didn't seem to captivate me like I'd hoped. It's extremely sad, tragic, and just not a lot going on in the story.

The author is a great writer and I can see this being an enjoyable read for a younger audience.

3***

I read this almost in one sitting because it was very hard to put down. I loved Eddie, he was so lovable and sweet. You really felt for him and I was so happy when he found Nicholas and was accepted into the family. My favourite character in the story had to be Alice who was so sensible and smart and really helped Ed and Lucy even though they were both too damaged to realize it. I didn't take to Natasha much at first until you realize just how much she loves her children and then I warmed to her. Linda and Alan were lovely characters especially when Linda teaches Eddie to read and he starts reading everything he can find. The premise of the story is very grim and you are so disappointed with Ed when he starts to go off the rails because you so want him to be well and normal. An excellent book which takes you on a bit of an emotional roller-coaster as Eddie finally finds out who he is and what he wants to do with his life. A great book to read though

Thank you for this book. Unfortunately, since it is not in kindle format, I am unable to read it.