America

America is by far the best portrayal of a young person trapped in society's system of foster care that I have ever seen. The book may be too real for some, but not if you are a realist.America's battle to understand who he is in this world is an exhiliratingly sad ride that alerts readers to a child welfare system that is overworked and understaffed. America actually gets "lost" in the system, which is symbolic of the thousands of American children who are ignored and "lost" everyday in our country's protection services.America reminds us that our children need more than just parents to raise and watch out for them. Our children need other adults, teachers, coaches, counselors, neighbors and general role models to look out for our youth and set a positive example for them.All of those commercials that ask for communities to take a second to get to know their youth are not for those of us who already do that. Even if you chose not to have kids, our country was not built on the attitude of "It's not my responsibility."I love America symbolically, literally and on so many levels I can't even put it into words.America is beautiful. If this book doesn't touch your emotions, then you are not human. This book is raw, real and heartbreakingly intriguing.Thank you E.R. Frank for an expertly written Young Adult novel.

I loved the writing style, very appropriate for the feel of this book. The story really designated with me because I too have encountered many Americas in my time. This story of pain, compassion, love, acceptance, and healing brought me to tears. Amazing read.

This moving book is the meaningful and powerful read that I had expected out of A Child Called It. America is a young kid, lost in the foster system, telling his story to a psychiatrist at a mental health facility. His journey though a terrible childhood and beyond is emotional and well written. Though the story could be a little hard to read at times for a struggling reader, I think that it is a high interest book that many kids would love.

Moving and authentic. I let my thirteen year old read it. He began to enjoy it when there was cursing, but soon, he started realizing the message behind the story. This book sticks with you, regardless of age or background. When given to a child, they are better able to understand coping, seeking help, and the power of healthy relationships through a book that is enjoyable to read without being preachy.Fantastic book all around.

Love this book

loved it... Purchased as a gift

America is a kid whose life has been royally effed up and now he's in a mental hospital after trying to commit suicide. America has witnessed all kinds of s***. I can't say I liked much about America's life. But I did like Mr. B a lot. And I think Mr. B helped America a lot by not saying or doing anything. He went reverse psychology on America and let America figures things out on his own, in his own time. It was healing.

I sympathized so much with this teenager who has gone through so much in his life. Going through extreme neglect and confusion about the world , I felt like I was sitting right next to him pleading to understand and befriend him. This story offers hope and forgiveness ! A must read especially if you're interested in learning about foster children