At the end of the school year, Kit Hathaway must give a speech about shoplifting. She closes her speech with, "It's stupid to take such a chance." A boy in her class challenges this statement, and Kit isn't sure she's willing to explain herself. Can she admit that her speech was based on first-hand experience? Kit's mind goes back to the day she found her step-father on an alcoholic binge. She refused to pick up a glass he broke, and she leaves the house with his words, "nothing but a stupid little animal" ringing in her ears. Kit sought refuge at the mall where she stole a gold necklace. She was caught, and a court date was set. To Kit's shame, her speech teacher, Miss Fenton, was on the hearing committee. Kit received a sentence of 20 hours of community service at the Humane Society. Responsible for exercising and socializing with the dogs, she fell in love with Lady. When her step-father refused to let her adopt the dog, Lady was euthanized. Then her mother was operated on for acute appendicitis. On another binge, her step-father called Kit an animal. This time, she took it as a compliment. Kit realized that she was free to choose her thoughts and many of her actions. So, Kit defends her speech knowing that she will never be caged again. The book teaches a valuable lesson: a person is in charge of their own choices and attitudes. Kit is an appealing protagonist who will quickly gain your sympathy and, then, earn your respect.
Edgy book that deal with some ugly topics of shoplifting, drinking and unpleasant home situations for a young tween or teen reader.Likes:* Topic of shoplifting(view spoiler)[* Supporting her friend's success* Step parent issues* Dealing with drinking binges* Secrets of family problems* Caring teacher, Miss Fenton* Consequences of actions* Reparations - Paying for other shoplifters* Community service and reparations and 2 years probation would clear her record* Kit recognizing Marcia's talent in play* Kit helping with play* DUI was another consequence of bad choices* Tracy forgiving Kit* Kit realizes that Marcia needed the lead in the play for her confidence* Learning to take responsibility for your actions (hide spoiler)]
