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Carry Me Home
Lucy and Ruth are country girls from a broken home. When they move to the city with their mother, leaving behind their family ranch and dead-beat father, Lucy unravels.
They run to their grandparents’ place, a trailer park mobile home in the barrio of San Jose. Lucy’s barrio friends have changed since her last visit. They’ve joined a gang called VC. They teach her to fight, to shank, to beat a person unconscious and play with guns. When things get too heavy, and lives are at stake, the three girls head for LA seeking a better life.
But trouble always follows Lucy. She befriends the wrong people, members of another gang, and every bad choice she makes drags the family into her dangerous world.
Told from three points of view, the story follows Lucy down the rabbit hole, along with her mother and sister as they sacrifice dreams and happiness, friendships and futures. Love is waiting for all of them in LA, but pursuing a life without Lucy could mean losing her forever.
Ultimately it’s their bond with each other that holds them together, in a true test of love, loss and survival.
They run to their grandparents’ place, a trailer park mobile home in the barrio of San Jose. Lucy’s barrio friends have changed since her last visit. They’ve joined a gang called VC. They teach her to fight, to shank, to beat a person unconscious and play with guns. When things get too heavy, and lives are at stake, the three girls head for LA seeking a better life.
But trouble always follows Lucy. She befriends the wrong people, members of another gang, and every bad choice she makes drags the family into her dangerous world.
Told from three points of view, the story follows Lucy down the rabbit hole, along with her mother and sister as they sacrifice dreams and happiness, friendships and futures. Love is waiting for all of them in LA, but pursuing a life without Lucy could mean losing her forever.
Ultimately it’s their bond with each other that holds them together, in a true test of love, loss and survival.
356 pages, Paperback
First published September 26, 2017
11 people are currently reading
1180 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Therrien
17 books495 followersJessica Therrien is the author of the young adult series Children of the Gods. Book one in the series, Oppression, became a Barnes & Noble best-seller shortly after its release. Her trilogy has been translated and sold through major publishers around the world, such as Editions AdA (Canada), EditionsMilan (France), and SharpPoint Press (China).
Aside from her Children of the Gods series, Jessica is the author of Carry Me Home, a YA contemporary fiction novel, and a kid’s picture book called, The Loneliest Whale. Her award-winning stories can also be found in a published anthology of flash fiction.
Jessica currently lives in Irvine with her husband and two young sons. She is working on an adult novel and a middle grade fantasy series.
Aside from her Children of the Gods series, Jessica is the author of Carry Me Home, a YA contemporary fiction novel, and a kid’s picture book called, The Loneliest Whale. Her award-winning stories can also be found in a published anthology of flash fiction.
Jessica currently lives in Irvine with her husband and two young sons. She is working on an adult novel and a middle grade fantasy series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
October 1, 2017
I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank fuck it's over
----
Dear publishers, we need to have a talk about trigger warnings. You cannot publish a book as YA and not warn that there are rape scenes, self harm, all kinds of drugs, lots of cringe-worthy violence. Had I been warned, I probably wouldn’t have picked up this book.
This book told the story of Lucy, Ruth and their mom. Those three characters had each a point of view. However, Lucy was still the main character, most of the story revolved around her and the chapters in her point of view were the most frequent and usually the longest.
The book starts with Lucy and Ruth’s mom fighting with their father who is drunk. When he pushes her and she falls, she decides she has had enough and leaves him, taking away the girls to her parents’ place in San Jose.
Arrived there, Lucy who has always been closer to her father is angry and reconnects with her summer friend, Ro. Except Ro has changed since the year before and she has joined a gang. Lucy gets in the middle of gang related stuff and the troubles are only just starting.
First of all, I really wasn’t expecting this book to be this violent. Then, I had a lot of trouble connecting with the characters. Ruth was ok I guess but I could really relate to her. The mother and Lucy, I hated. Lucy was thoughtless, never thinking of consequences, always acting like she was a victim even before she actually was. But even after that horrid scene, she hasn’t learnt anything and keep acting thoughtlessly, making bad decisions after bad decisions.
The mother might actually have been the worst of the three. The word that was most associated with her was “whining”, she was constantly whining, relying heavily on Ruth for everything and letting Lucy do whatever the hell she wanted because her prime concern was that everyone was happy and no one fighting. That’s not parenting. She was an awful awful mother but was almost never criticized on it… This all drove me insane.
I had a lot of trouble going through this book and I even found it painful at times and not in a good way. I got so angry I couldn’t see straight.
Still, I’m very thankful for Ruth because she helped me get through it.
Finally, I thought the ending was not at all satisfactory, it seemed almost too easy after everything that happened...
Basically, this was not for me.
Thank fuck it's over
----
Dear publishers, we need to have a talk about trigger warnings. You cannot publish a book as YA and not warn that there are rape scenes, self harm, all kinds of drugs, lots of cringe-worthy violence. Had I been warned, I probably wouldn’t have picked up this book.
This book told the story of Lucy, Ruth and their mom. Those three characters had each a point of view. However, Lucy was still the main character, most of the story revolved around her and the chapters in her point of view were the most frequent and usually the longest.
The book starts with Lucy and Ruth’s mom fighting with their father who is drunk. When he pushes her and she falls, she decides she has had enough and leaves him, taking away the girls to her parents’ place in San Jose.
Arrived there, Lucy who has always been closer to her father is angry and reconnects with her summer friend, Ro. Except Ro has changed since the year before and she has joined a gang. Lucy gets in the middle of gang related stuff and the troubles are only just starting.
First of all, I really wasn’t expecting this book to be this violent. Then, I had a lot of trouble connecting with the characters. Ruth was ok I guess but I could really relate to her. The mother and Lucy, I hated. Lucy was thoughtless, never thinking of consequences, always acting like she was a victim even before she actually was. But even after that horrid scene, she hasn’t learnt anything and keep acting thoughtlessly, making bad decisions after bad decisions.
The mother might actually have been the worst of the three. The word that was most associated with her was “whining”, she was constantly whining, relying heavily on Ruth for everything and letting Lucy do whatever the hell she wanted because her prime concern was that everyone was happy and no one fighting. That’s not parenting. She was an awful awful mother but was almost never criticized on it… This all drove me insane.
I had a lot of trouble going through this book and I even found it painful at times and not in a good way. I got so angry I couldn’t see straight.
Still, I’m very thankful for Ruth because she helped me get through it.
Finally, I thought the ending was not at all satisfactory, it seemed almost too easy after everything that happened...
Basically, this was not for me.
June 14, 2017
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an ARC, and this is one of the best books I've read in ages. Carry Me Home is a beautifully crafted story of one family’s journey into darkness, and ultimate redemption. It’s also a riveting page-turner; I devoured it one sitting. The stories of Jess and Allie weave together in a rich tapestry about the ties that bind us, the self-destructiveness of adolescence, and the resilience of the human spirit to transcend our own worst mistakes. Jessica Therrien broke my heart into a million pieces—and then put it back together again. This book will haunt and uplift readers long after they turn the last page.
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August 30, 2017YA inspired by a true story! Join the blog tour here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FA...
October 24, 2017
*3 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
The story line of this one is an interesting idea, however I found that I didn’t connect with, or particularly like, any of the characters. I wouldn’t say not to read this, because these kinds of things do happen (unfortunately) in real life, but I just found myself disliking everyone.
Lucy just made so many bad choices and I wanted to smack her in the head, Ruth was fine, albeit a bit shy, she was probably the best character, and their mother, man I really wanted her to man up.
I think the positive things to take away from this book are the life stories and lessons. Everyone can turn their life around, if only they’re strong enough to realise what they want and how to make a go of it. The family bond in this one, even if shown in funny ways, is quite strong too. A strong family unit always helps.
I’m sure there are alot people out there who would be able to connect with this story, just because it’s not for me, doesn’t mean its not for everyone. The writing style is quite good and the storyline, as I said, is interesting, I think alot of people out there would probably take something away from this one as it does have alot of life lessons/hard truths hidden in there.
Review also on my blog - Carry Me Home - Jessica Therrien
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ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
The story line of this one is an interesting idea, however I found that I didn’t connect with, or particularly like, any of the characters. I wouldn’t say not to read this, because these kinds of things do happen (unfortunately) in real life, but I just found myself disliking everyone.
Lucy just made so many bad choices and I wanted to smack her in the head, Ruth was fine, albeit a bit shy, she was probably the best character, and their mother, man I really wanted her to man up.
I think the positive things to take away from this book are the life stories and lessons. Everyone can turn their life around, if only they’re strong enough to realise what they want and how to make a go of it. The family bond in this one, even if shown in funny ways, is quite strong too. A strong family unit always helps.
I’m sure there are alot people out there who would be able to connect with this story, just because it’s not for me, doesn’t mean its not for everyone. The writing style is quite good and the storyline, as I said, is interesting, I think alot of people out there would probably take something away from this one as it does have alot of life lessons/hard truths hidden in there.
Review also on my blog - Carry Me Home - Jessica Therrien
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September 15, 2017
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Acorn Publishing. All opinions are my own.
Carry Me Home is a beautifully written novel that follows a family of three women, each trying to escape their own reality in different ways. I found myself able to identify with all three women at different times throughout the novel. These three characters became so real to me throughout reading that I felt as if I could touch them. Jessica Therrien breathes life into these women with her artfully crafted prose.
Although there were times where this novel was filled with action and edge-of-your-seat scenes, I would not refer to the pacing as fast. The point of view switches made it easy to set down in this case. Which is actually okay because this is a novel that invoked so much thought that I don't think it should be devoured in one sitting. But with such beautiful writing and thought provoking prose I did not find that it invoked much emotion within me. With the subject matter it certainly could have, so I kind of felt like that was a missing piece of this puzzle. I just felt a bit of an emotional disconnect, especially with Ruth. Probably because she was the character I related to the least.
This book has so much packed into it that I feel like it might have been better split into several books. Gangs, violence, drugs, alcoholic home, love, grief and family dynamics. It is a realistic story though. It shows you how a person could find themselves addicted to drugs and makes you understand why someone would wind up there. This story is full of ugly truths, and it feels 100% real.
I found myself wondering if this novel is based on personal experience or not. At times I feel as if it could be my story about my years of teenage rebellion. (I wasn't quite as wild as Lucy, but I did sneak out my bedroom window.) It just feels extremely authentic and I wouldn't be surprised if the author had lived through some of this herself.
I would suggest this book to lovers of dark, realistic fiction. At times it might not be entirely appropriate for all young adult readers, probably best for 15 and up.
March 26, 2018
Inspired by true events, Carry Me Home is the heartwrenching tale that follows three women, Lucy, her sister Ruth, and their mother. The book is written in chapters told by each of their points of view. Lucy is a rebellious 15 year old in which once she gets a taste of freedom, bites off more than she can chew. It's easy to get caught up in the drama and situations that are going on with other kids your own age, especially at that age and with so much freedom. Ruth has social anxiety and has a hard time coming out of her shell. She is envious of Lucy's ability to make friends no matter the situation, but she loves her fiercely. Two years older than Lucy, she oftentimes plays mother to her while their own mother is either out working or trying to further her education. Their mother is insecure after years of verbal abuse from her husband, an alcoholic who is disgusted by her weight. While she knows she needs to lose weight, she needs to learn to be comfortable in her own skin. She wants to do what is best for her daughters in everything. The three are close-knit which carries them throughout the several trials their lives are placed in.
Therrien addresses hard-hitting issues such as gang violence, drugs, spousal abuse, social anxiety, and rape. I appreciate that a book can cover so many topics and bring them to the forefront. I appreciate that there was an epilogue, though my personal tastes would have liked to see it longer. I do believe Therrien could even turn the epilogue into its own separate book. While labeled a young adult book, I feel that any age woman would benefit from reading it as it conveys such strong emotions and messages.
Therrien addresses hard-hitting issues such as gang violence, drugs, spousal abuse, social anxiety, and rape. I appreciate that a book can cover so many topics and bring them to the forefront. I appreciate that there was an epilogue, though my personal tastes would have liked to see it longer. I do believe Therrien could even turn the epilogue into its own separate book. While labeled a young adult book, I feel that any age woman would benefit from reading it as it conveys such strong emotions and messages.
June 14, 2017
Carry Me Home is a heart-filled story between three women and the challenges of being a family. Each of the three characters have completely different perspectives on what is happening in their lives and even if you only relate to one of them, Therrien's depth will open up a new understanding for each character's life and choices. Let yourself be swept into their world, broaden your horizons, and be prepared to tear up through their struggles and their hopes.
September 25, 2017
San José, gangs, guns, fighting… In the beginning I was slightly hesitant to start reading, as I already was expecting to dislike it.
BUT! HOW WRONG WAS I?!
It was an absolutely amazing book and I haven’t been able to stop talking about it since I picked it up!!
Jessica Therrien created the most gripping, realistically unrealistic story that makes your jaw drop in awe! The events that took place within this quite short novel were very INTENSE, definitely not for the light-hearted.
The story began as a FAMILY DRAMA. A drunk father, abusive over to his wife. A weak and co-dependent mother. But finally she had enough and decided to take her teenage daughters and leave him. Maybe not for good, but just to get away. Almost a classic family drama. However, the events started to spiral from there on without any breathing room!
I don’t want to say that Lucy is a main character because I loved reading about Ruth, her older sister, and even their mother just as much as I loved reading Lucy’s perspective. But it is true that events that happen with Lucy are more DISTURBING AND UPSETTING to read about.
The story wasn’t the most emotional I’ve ever read, but it kept me engaged, it kept me turning the pages and wanting to find out what happened next to their little family. I wanted Ruth to be alright and not having to deal with Lucy’s screw ups, I wanted their mother to be stronger and to not put everything on her daughter’s shoulders. I was invested in the story and worried about the characters.
Jessica Therrien created the most gripping, realistically unrealistic story that makes your jaw drop in awe! The events that took place within this quite short novel were very INTENSE, definitely not for the light-hearted.
The story began as a FAMILY DRAMA. A drunk father, abusive over to his wife. A weak and co-dependent mother. But finally she had enough and decided to take her teenage daughters and leave him. Maybe not for good, but just to get away. Almost a classic family drama. However, the events started to spiral from there on without any breathing room!
I don’t want to say that Lucy is a main character because I loved reading about Ruth, her older sister, and even their mother just as much as I loved reading Lucy’s perspective. But it is true that events that happen with Lucy are more DISTURBING AND UPSETTING to read about.
The story wasn’t the most emotional I’ve ever read, but it kept me engaged, it kept me turning the pages and wanting to find out what happened next to their little family. I wanted Ruth to be alright and not having to deal with Lucy’s screw ups, I wanted their mother to be stronger and to not put everything on her daughter’s shoulders. I was invested in the story and worried about the characters.
August 27, 2017
Carry me home by Jessica Therrien.
Lucy and Ruth are country girls from a broken home. When they move to the city with their mother, leaving behind their family ranch and dead-beat father, Lucy unravels.They run to their grandparents’ place, a trailer park mobile home in the barrio of San Jose. Lucy’s barrio friends have changed since her last visit. They’ve joined a gang called VC. They teach her to fight, to shank, to beat a person unconscious and play with guns. When things get too heavy, and lives are at stake, the three girls head for LA seeking a better life.But trouble always follows Lucy. She befriends the wrong people, members of another gang, and every bad choice she makes drags the family into her dangerous world.Told from three points of view, the story follows Lucy down the rabbit hole, along with her mother and sister as they sacrifice dreams and happiness, friendships and futures. Love is waiting for all of them in LA, but pursuing a life without Lucy could mean losing her forever.
OMG an absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. a moving and heartwrenching read. I really felt for the family and what they went through. Definitely worth more than 5*. netgalley and acorn publishing.
Lucy and Ruth are country girls from a broken home. When they move to the city with their mother, leaving behind their family ranch and dead-beat father, Lucy unravels.They run to their grandparents’ place, a trailer park mobile home in the barrio of San Jose. Lucy’s barrio friends have changed since her last visit. They’ve joined a gang called VC. They teach her to fight, to shank, to beat a person unconscious and play with guns. When things get too heavy, and lives are at stake, the three girls head for LA seeking a better life.But trouble always follows Lucy. She befriends the wrong people, members of another gang, and every bad choice she makes drags the family into her dangerous world.Told from three points of view, the story follows Lucy down the rabbit hole, along with her mother and sister as they sacrifice dreams and happiness, friendships and futures. Love is waiting for all of them in LA, but pursuing a life without Lucy could mean losing her forever.
OMG an absolutely fantastic read with brilliant characters. a moving and heartwrenching read. I really felt for the family and what they went through. Definitely worth more than 5*. netgalley and acorn publishing.
July 14, 2017
Thanks so much to everyone who has added CARRY ME HOME to their GoodReads list! I hope you like the book :)
September 11, 2017
Having read a couple of other reviews, I think I'm going to be in the minority here. When I read the synopsis of the book, I as really eager to read it, I thought it was going to be quite dark and gritty. I didn't find it dark or gritty, in fact, a couple of chapters in I re-read the synopsis to make sure I was reading the right book.
I felt the writing was too simplistic and there wasn't enough character development in my opinion. I'm not sure if this was supposed to be a Young Adult book or not, but I certainly got that vibe from it. It felt like the descriptions of the experiences of one of the characters was being 'dumbed down' so as not to upset anyone too much.
The storyline was good and I didn't find it confusing as one or two others have mentioned; but I think it may have been better told from a one person point of view. In sort a nice, easy read.
I felt the writing was too simplistic and there wasn't enough character development in my opinion. I'm not sure if this was supposed to be a Young Adult book or not, but I certainly got that vibe from it. It felt like the descriptions of the experiences of one of the characters was being 'dumbed down' so as not to upset anyone too much.
The storyline was good and I didn't find it confusing as one or two others have mentioned; but I think it may have been better told from a one person point of view. In sort a nice, easy read.
August 22, 2017
When I was in high school...or middle school, I forget which one, I came across a book by Omar Tyree called Flyy Girl. It was a favorite of mine growing up and to this day I still pull off the shelf or pull up on my reader, this book, ' Carry Me Home', Reminded me a lot of this book.
Carry Me Home is a book that gives you a glimpse into the gritty world of what can happen when you don't keep a close eye on your children. It is so easy to become lost when you are a teenager, especially when your parents suddenly split and you are thrust into a new environment.
Lucy (Guera) finds herself in situation after situation that pushes her down a dark path. She finds herself being initiated into a gang as she seeks acceptance and a false sense of belonging and familiarity.
I will warn that this book has a possibility for triggers. There are some graphic scene's that include rape, drugs and violence.
This book goes back and forth between the three women in the family. The Mother, Ruth and Lucy.
The author hints at the mothers gambling addiction and it starts off with the fathers drinking problems, and towards the end explains that it contributes to Lucy's addiction issues.
Growing up I wasn't as squeaky clean as most kids my age was. My parents were divorced, my mom worked a lot and a lot of responsibility was on my shoulders the same way they were Ruth's. I think that is why I enjoy these books, because of how relatable they are and a reminder that things can always go from bad to worse.
Carry Me Home is a book that gives you a glimpse into the gritty world of what can happen when you don't keep a close eye on your children. It is so easy to become lost when you are a teenager, especially when your parents suddenly split and you are thrust into a new environment.
Lucy (Guera) finds herself in situation after situation that pushes her down a dark path. She finds herself being initiated into a gang as she seeks acceptance and a false sense of belonging and familiarity.
I will warn that this book has a possibility for triggers. There are some graphic scene's that include rape, drugs and violence.
This book goes back and forth between the three women in the family. The Mother, Ruth and Lucy.
The author hints at the mothers gambling addiction and it starts off with the fathers drinking problems, and towards the end explains that it contributes to Lucy's addiction issues.
Growing up I wasn't as squeaky clean as most kids my age was. My parents were divorced, my mom worked a lot and a lot of responsibility was on my shoulders the same way they were Ruth's. I think that is why I enjoy these books, because of how relatable they are and a reminder that things can always go from bad to worse.
March 6, 2020
This was an intense story. I must admit I couldn't stand Lucy's character. It pissed me off that she would constantly place herself into gangs and live a dangerous lifestyle. I mean, I know teens can be rebellious and that in real life many fall into the wrong crowd after growing up in a bad neighborhood or having gone through terrible situations. But in Lucy's case, I felt like she was just a spoiled, attention-seeking brat that constantly put her sister and mother through hell. Then again, the mother was a whole other situation.
This woman wasn't the best, and her lack of self-worth kept her from her true potential as well as hindered her ability to parent. Lucy overpowered her all the time. In fact, she would just lean on Ruth for everything, which wasn't fair because Ruth deserved to live her own life without doing her mother's job and always being the one that had it together. I really liked her character and wanted her to succeed, especially after she found such a good relationship. But then all got damaged because of Lucy's destructive ways.
Anyway, that being said, it was an interesting story with nice writing, and I like how things ended up for each of the women. It shows that no matter what you go through in life, you could always turn your life around.
This woman wasn't the best, and her lack of self-worth kept her from her true potential as well as hindered her ability to parent. Lucy overpowered her all the time. In fact, she would just lean on Ruth for everything, which wasn't fair because Ruth deserved to live her own life without doing her mother's job and always being the one that had it together. I really liked her character and wanted her to succeed, especially after she found such a good relationship. But then all got damaged because of Lucy's destructive ways.
Anyway, that being said, it was an interesting story with nice writing, and I like how things ended up for each of the women. It shows that no matter what you go through in life, you could always turn your life around.
June 14, 2017
This amazing book is based on many of my life experiences and memories and how they impacted my family, transformed by my sister into an amazing fictional book that will break your heart and put it back together. It's soul piercing and emotional but the suspense will have you on your toes the whole time. This book will change the way you see life and remind you that even at your lowest there is hope to overcome your deepest darkest demons. All you need is love.
April 13, 2020
This book’s style was just so matter of fact. Every person spoke in the same voice, and their actions and emotions were generally simply stated. The ending was personally disappointing to me, although it wasn’t necessarily fully expected. I guess it portrayed the difficulty of life, but there was just so much detail and conclusion missing.
March 27, 2018
I love this & I can't wait for more.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
October 16, 2017
When you can read an entire book in one single sitting, that says a lot. I really enjoyed Carry Me Home. I've been on this YA kick after taking a step back for awhile. I just felt like I was reading the same story over and over again. But I've come back to the genre and Carry Me Home has reminded me why I still, to this day, love YA.
Carry Me Home is extra special in that you get 3 POVs, but one is of the mother! We never get the parent's perspective in a YA and it was a fabulous touch as I am a mother now. It really did make this book that much more relateable for me as opposed to just reminiscent!
Rachel takes her children, Ruth and Lucy, after being pushed off the porch by her drunken husband. She finally decided she had enough and refuses to stay in her abusive relationship. When Rachel moves to San Jose with her parents we truly see Lucy start to fall apart and moving to LA shortly after didn't help matters at all. Although we do get 3 POVs, the story is essentially Lucy's. She has the most chapters and the longest chapters, but getting her sister Ruth and her mother, Rachel's, perspective, again, did great things for the story.
This is a story of a young girl spiraling out of control and a mother and sister who literally have no clue how to help her. It's a story of second chances and just wanting a simple life. It's a story of redemption. The bond the 3 share truly is unbreakable even pushed to the farthest limits.
"Why is it we cry anyway? What is it about that ugly awful sound that helps us push past our worst moments?"
This is the first book I've read by Jessica Therrien. It truly was a great read and would recommend it for anyone who loves a good mature YA.
Carry Me Home is extra special in that you get 3 POVs, but one is of the mother! We never get the parent's perspective in a YA and it was a fabulous touch as I am a mother now. It really did make this book that much more relateable for me as opposed to just reminiscent!
Rachel takes her children, Ruth and Lucy, after being pushed off the porch by her drunken husband. She finally decided she had enough and refuses to stay in her abusive relationship. When Rachel moves to San Jose with her parents we truly see Lucy start to fall apart and moving to LA shortly after didn't help matters at all. Although we do get 3 POVs, the story is essentially Lucy's. She has the most chapters and the longest chapters, but getting her sister Ruth and her mother, Rachel's, perspective, again, did great things for the story.
This is a story of a young girl spiraling out of control and a mother and sister who literally have no clue how to help her. It's a story of second chances and just wanting a simple life. It's a story of redemption. The bond the 3 share truly is unbreakable even pushed to the farthest limits.
"Why is it we cry anyway? What is it about that ugly awful sound that helps us push past our worst moments?"
This is the first book I've read by Jessica Therrien. It truly was a great read and would recommend it for anyone who loves a good mature YA.
September 29, 2017
*Trigger warning for rape, drug abuse, and gang violence.*
Musings:
Filled with suspense and lots of action, Carry Me Home is the tale of two sisters torn apart by ones choice to hang out with the wrong crowd. Mostly this book is about Lucy. Lucy who gets caught up with gangs and spirals downward into situations that could have ended in her death more then once.
Told in both a small town and a larger city the dynamics of both places add to flavor of this novels brand of fear. What was really cool for me was that the city it takes part in is Glendale, California where I had lived for most of my life. It was nice to read and see how well the author described my home town and what it’s like to live there.
As the novel progresses, Lucy gets into more and more trouble and further and further away from her family. The person that she especially starts to push away is her sister Ruth and Ruth begins to also take her own path, but they are bound by their blood so they continue to clash.
The gang world is one that I know I will never be a part of, but it very real and very terrifying. This is a story of what happens when you get caught in that sort of environment, for some they make it out alive and others don’t. Gang violence is a vicious cycle of killing for revenge until you forget what started it all and give into to anger until you too are dead. For these reasons this novel was important to me, so that I could understand another’s way of life weather I agree with it or not.
Musings:
Filled with suspense and lots of action, Carry Me Home is the tale of two sisters torn apart by ones choice to hang out with the wrong crowd. Mostly this book is about Lucy. Lucy who gets caught up with gangs and spirals downward into situations that could have ended in her death more then once.
Told in both a small town and a larger city the dynamics of both places add to flavor of this novels brand of fear. What was really cool for me was that the city it takes part in is Glendale, California where I had lived for most of my life. It was nice to read and see how well the author described my home town and what it’s like to live there.
As the novel progresses, Lucy gets into more and more trouble and further and further away from her family. The person that she especially starts to push away is her sister Ruth and Ruth begins to also take her own path, but they are bound by their blood so they continue to clash.
The gang world is one that I know I will never be a part of, but it very real and very terrifying. This is a story of what happens when you get caught in that sort of environment, for some they make it out alive and others don’t. Gang violence is a vicious cycle of killing for revenge until you forget what started it all and give into to anger until you too are dead. For these reasons this novel was important to me, so that I could understand another’s way of life weather I agree with it or not.
July 23, 2017
In "Carry Me Home," Jessica Therrien writes of a family torn apart by addiction and gang violence. She contrasts the lives of three women disappointed by men for different reasons. Tension mounts in this fast-paced novel until the mother and one of her daughters must live with the consequences of a deadly confrontation between the men they love.
Like all really good books, Therrien's novel is a window into an unknown world. Read carefully, though, it's also a haunting critique of modern society's lack of important communal values. This is because the women are disappointed not just by their men, but by the lack of opportunities their world affords them to nurture important characteristics like loyalty, commitment, and courage. Therrien shows how young people too often grow up deprived not just if excitement, but of a sense of belonging and the chance to feel important to others. For some of them, gangs offer what's missing. The results are disasterous, as the novel shows.
Therrien's story is especially revealing because she alternates back and forth among three voices: the mother and each of the two daughters. This allows her to show the immediate costs of bad decisions while at the same time revealing how easy these mistakes are to make. For this and other reasons, "Carry Me Home" is a must-read for all who deal with the issues it explores.
Like all really good books, Therrien's novel is a window into an unknown world. Read carefully, though, it's also a haunting critique of modern society's lack of important communal values. This is because the women are disappointed not just by their men, but by the lack of opportunities their world affords them to nurture important characteristics like loyalty, commitment, and courage. Therrien shows how young people too often grow up deprived not just if excitement, but of a sense of belonging and the chance to feel important to others. For some of them, gangs offer what's missing. The results are disasterous, as the novel shows.
Therrien's story is especially revealing because she alternates back and forth among three voices: the mother and each of the two daughters. This allows her to show the immediate costs of bad decisions while at the same time revealing how easy these mistakes are to make. For this and other reasons, "Carry Me Home" is a must-read for all who deal with the issues it explores.
May 5, 2019
Fabulous, Jessica Therrien took every opportunity available to create a riveting and suspenseful novel and boy, did she deliver. Based on a true story, her fast paced, righteous, coming of age novel keeps you engrossed from page one, I couldn't put it down. The characters each have a unique depth for their different perspectives on the same situation. It's frustrating watching characters whom you've fallen in love with making decisions for their darkest hours, and terrifying learning about the harsh realities of a world that I've never seen before. Carry Me Home should be a staple novel in all households with young women to show them that, no matter how dark or dangerous this world seems to be, your family will always be there for you.
June 14, 2017
I couldn't put this book down. I was immediately drawn in to the story of these three women as they navigate through the hardest choices they will ever have to make. It is a testament to the power of unconditional love and hope in the face of adversity.
November 9, 2017
Carry Me Home is a dark contemporary where it follows a girl's deep dive into the crazy world of drugs and gangs.
This is not my usual read. I think originally I thought this book would be more of a mystery... and it was not. It was a dark, sad novel but very compelling as well.
I am letting people know before I start this review that this book has triggers for rape, abuse, drugs, and gang violence.
There are three perspectives (Ruth, Lucy and their mom), and it switches between each chapter.
Each woman is dealing with her own flaws, and problems. They all, I think, feel alone until they realize they need each in order to start healing.
The Mom is struggling with her failed marriage and how to accomplish her dreams, while also trying to support her daughters.
Ruth, the oldest daughter, is trying to overcome her shyness/ fit into high school, while also trying to keep Lucy and their Mom together.
Lucy is the wild child. She gets caught up in drugs and gangs, and makes some horrible decisions. She spirals out of control to a point of no return.
I found it hard to relate to these characters because I never been in their situation before, but I still found them captivating.
I found Lucy to be most fascinating, because you could see how fast she fell into the gang life, and drugs, and how difficult it is to get out of that type of darkness. Lucy did stay away from gangs after she witnessed and did several horrible things in San Jose. However, she soon got involved with other people affiliated with gangs in LA. This was the second part of her downfall. Her new friends then turn her onto drugs, and this is where we lose Lucy.
You always think that you would have the resilience to say no, but the thing about addictions- is that they are very hard to get rid of. Lucy pushes everyone away selfishly, just so that she get can her next hit. It takes a toll on both her mother and Ruth.
Ruth, understandably, gets mad at Lucy. Especially after Lucy gets into trouble with the police, Ruth just starts to hide away from Lucy and her mom. Lucy’s mom fears that she might lose Lucy completely if she tries to discipline her for her wrongdoings, so she doesn’t do anything.
After one tragic event, everyone realizes that they need each other to start healing, and to support each other through hard times.
There are several large messages that are intertwined in this book.
First message: forgiveness. Everyone makes mistakes, but we must remember that we are all humans- no one can be perfect. If your friends or family are taking the wrong road, try to support them. It will be hard because you most likely will be mad at them, but never stop trying.
Second message: family sticks together. Jessica Therrien does a wonderful job at developing the plot where Ruth, Lucy, and their Mom are together as one, then they start to pull away from each other, but then find each once more. Family will help you stand back up after you have fallen, and no matter what, they will always love you. It was beautiful to see Ruth, Lucy, and their Mom become a tight unit that supports each other, especially after the tragedies that they have suffered.
Third message: there’s a light in any dark space. Lucy went to a dark place for a while, but she tries her hardest to come back, and she makes it. In epilogue, she says that she still struggles with her addictions. She will always have to keep fighting. To anyone who is struggling, just keep fighting, there is a light in any type of darkness.
This book was tough for me. I know why I don’t read these types of book a lot. Emotions… so many emotions!!! It also gave me a new perspective on drugs and gangs, and people who have gotten mixed up in that. If you are looking for a gritty, with a sliver-of-hope type of book, then this is the right one for you!
3.5 to 4 stars!
This review was originally posted on http://ilovebooksclub101.blogspot.com
This is not my usual read. I think originally I thought this book would be more of a mystery... and it was not. It was a dark, sad novel but very compelling as well.
I am letting people know before I start this review that this book has triggers for rape, abuse, drugs, and gang violence.
There are three perspectives (Ruth, Lucy and their mom), and it switches between each chapter.
Each woman is dealing with her own flaws, and problems. They all, I think, feel alone until they realize they need each in order to start healing.
The Mom is struggling with her failed marriage and how to accomplish her dreams, while also trying to support her daughters.
Ruth, the oldest daughter, is trying to overcome her shyness/ fit into high school, while also trying to keep Lucy and their Mom together.
Lucy is the wild child. She gets caught up in drugs and gangs, and makes some horrible decisions. She spirals out of control to a point of no return.
I found it hard to relate to these characters because I never been in their situation before, but I still found them captivating.
I found Lucy to be most fascinating, because you could see how fast she fell into the gang life, and drugs, and how difficult it is to get out of that type of darkness. Lucy did stay away from gangs after she witnessed and did several horrible things in San Jose. However, she soon got involved with other people affiliated with gangs in LA. This was the second part of her downfall. Her new friends then turn her onto drugs, and this is where we lose Lucy.
You always think that you would have the resilience to say no, but the thing about addictions- is that they are very hard to get rid of. Lucy pushes everyone away selfishly, just so that she get can her next hit. It takes a toll on both her mother and Ruth.
Ruth, understandably, gets mad at Lucy. Especially after Lucy gets into trouble with the police, Ruth just starts to hide away from Lucy and her mom. Lucy’s mom fears that she might lose Lucy completely if she tries to discipline her for her wrongdoings, so she doesn’t do anything.
After one tragic event, everyone realizes that they need each other to start healing, and to support each other through hard times.
There are several large messages that are intertwined in this book.
First message: forgiveness. Everyone makes mistakes, but we must remember that we are all humans- no one can be perfect. If your friends or family are taking the wrong road, try to support them. It will be hard because you most likely will be mad at them, but never stop trying.
Second message: family sticks together. Jessica Therrien does a wonderful job at developing the plot where Ruth, Lucy, and their Mom are together as one, then they start to pull away from each other, but then find each once more. Family will help you stand back up after you have fallen, and no matter what, they will always love you. It was beautiful to see Ruth, Lucy, and their Mom become a tight unit that supports each other, especially after the tragedies that they have suffered.
Third message: there’s a light in any dark space. Lucy went to a dark place for a while, but she tries her hardest to come back, and she makes it. In epilogue, she says that she still struggles with her addictions. She will always have to keep fighting. To anyone who is struggling, just keep fighting, there is a light in any type of darkness.
This book was tough for me. I know why I don’t read these types of book a lot. Emotions… so many emotions!!! It also gave me a new perspective on drugs and gangs, and people who have gotten mixed up in that. If you are looking for a gritty, with a sliver-of-hope type of book, then this is the right one for you!
3.5 to 4 stars!
This review was originally posted on http://ilovebooksclub101.blogspot.com
September 25, 2017
2017 has been an epic year for books and specifically the Young Adult genre. Some ground-breaking books have been hitting the shelves that shatter the Young Adult stereotype and will pave the way for future YA authors to come. Carry Me Home is a tragic, touching, painful and moving tale about a family fleeing their broken home to create a better life. It is about a mother wanting more for her 2 teenage daughters but we all know, things aren't always as easy as they seem.
Carry Me Home is told from the perspectives of Mom, Lucy, and Ruth. Each character dealing with their own deep-seeded insecurities. Lucy has the strongest influence in the novel. Her story is raw, at times, sickening and mostly heart-wrenching. She is a teenage girl begging for acceptance and love in all of the wrong places. Mom has always been under the thumb of her alcoholic, abusive husband and after scooping up Lucy and Ruth and moving to Los Angeles, she is now solely responsible for providing for these children. Keeping food in the stomach and a roof over their head. Working and going back to school, her presence at home is almost non-existent and her parenting lacks authority, especially when it comes to Lucy. Yet, her intentions are strong and she loves fiercely. Ruth is quiet and an introvert. She is not like her outgoing sister, Lucy, and they bump heads constantly. Ruth is the one that tries to pulls Lucy's reigns when Mom doesn't know what to do, but it causes more problems than fixing them.
Each character has so much depth and the author does a spectacular job at letting each of their stories unfold effortlessly throughout the entire book. She crafted an emotional and relevant reading experience that will leave you thinking about it long after you've finished the last page. You will simply devour this extraordinary tale of heart-ache, pain, and redemption.
Carry Me Home is told from the perspectives of Mom, Lucy, and Ruth. Each character dealing with their own deep-seeded insecurities. Lucy has the strongest influence in the novel. Her story is raw, at times, sickening and mostly heart-wrenching. She is a teenage girl begging for acceptance and love in all of the wrong places. Mom has always been under the thumb of her alcoholic, abusive husband and after scooping up Lucy and Ruth and moving to Los Angeles, she is now solely responsible for providing for these children. Keeping food in the stomach and a roof over their head. Working and going back to school, her presence at home is almost non-existent and her parenting lacks authority, especially when it comes to Lucy. Yet, her intentions are strong and she loves fiercely. Ruth is quiet and an introvert. She is not like her outgoing sister, Lucy, and they bump heads constantly. Ruth is the one that tries to pulls Lucy's reigns when Mom doesn't know what to do, but it causes more problems than fixing them.
Each character has so much depth and the author does a spectacular job at letting each of their stories unfold effortlessly throughout the entire book. She crafted an emotional and relevant reading experience that will leave you thinking about it long after you've finished the last page. You will simply devour this extraordinary tale of heart-ache, pain, and redemption.
December 15, 2017
Carry Me Home definitely was not what I was expecting. After the first couple of chapters I figured that it would just be another book that shifted between perspectives but only really developed one, but I was wrong. Although Lucy's story is really the focus of the book, their mother's story was the heart. He reckless and selfish decisions made her unlikable but they drove the entire plot and were what made her so relatable. She had trouble deciding when it was ok to be selfish and when she needed to be there for her daughters and thats what really gave her character. I also found it really interesting how having an irresponsible mother made one daughter feel like she needed to become the responsible one of the family and how it made the other feel like she could shed all responsibility and let herself fall into a world that no parent wants to see their child in. I think that Carry Me Home was raw and emotional, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone.
October 24, 2017
Full Review at https://kendralovesbooks.blogspot.com...
I absolutely loved this book! The writing was amazing and the story was phenomenal. How could you not love Lucy, Ruth and their mom. I was rooting for Lucy the whole time, to get her shit together. Lucy went through some hard hard times and she went to the low of all lows with drugs, but she seemed to pull it together. I think having her almost die and then having her sister there helped her through it. Even though Lucy and Ruth weren't super close sisters, they still deep down loved each other.
I really felt bad for their mom, Lucy was soo mean to her. Then that ending, how heartbreaking!! When I realized after I read this book that it was inspired by a true story, I loved this story even more. I'm so glad Jessica wrote this book to let teens know what drugs and gangs can do to you and your family!
I highly recommend this book!!
I received a copy from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved this book! The writing was amazing and the story was phenomenal. How could you not love Lucy, Ruth and their mom. I was rooting for Lucy the whole time, to get her shit together. Lucy went through some hard hard times and she went to the low of all lows with drugs, but she seemed to pull it together. I think having her almost die and then having her sister there helped her through it. Even though Lucy and Ruth weren't super close sisters, they still deep down loved each other.
I really felt bad for their mom, Lucy was soo mean to her. Then that ending, how heartbreaking!! When I realized after I read this book that it was inspired by a true story, I loved this story even more. I'm so glad Jessica wrote this book to let teens know what drugs and gangs can do to you and your family!
I highly recommend this book!!
I received a copy from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2017
I received this book through netgalley for an honest review, this was an amazing book I loved it from the start! lately I have been craving a book that is new and unique. carry me home is exactly that! I especially liked that you got to hear from the point of view from the mom and sister not just one person. this gave me a chance to understand were the mom was coming from and what she was going through in order to start their lives over again. reading about and understanding how easy it is for any vulnerable adolescent to be completely sucked in is really scary. I loved and appreciated the honesty in this book you felt for every character and I really loved the cover! defiantly a fantastic read I highly recommend!
August 28, 2017
3.5 stars
I seem to be in the minority of not absolutely loving this book.
It was good,don't get me wrong.... but having been drawn in by the intensity of the first part,I felt the L.A side of the story didn't quite match that.
The violence and guns of that first part felt all too real.
The multiple person narrative worked well on this,especially for Ruth,who if only viewed from others perspective,did little.
But she sacrificed everything for her sister,and you get the feeling they would all give up anything for each other.
I seem to be in the minority of not absolutely loving this book.
It was good,don't get me wrong.... but having been drawn in by the intensity of the first part,I felt the L.A side of the story didn't quite match that.
The violence and guns of that first part felt all too real.
The multiple person narrative worked well on this,especially for Ruth,who if only viewed from others perspective,did little.
But she sacrificed everything for her sister,and you get the feeling they would all give up anything for each other.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2017
Carry Me Home is a full journey, following three women as they endure years of hardships. We meet Lucy, Ruth, and their mom as they're escaping the clutches of an abusive man--Lucy's and Ruth's father. They move into their grandmother's trailer in San Jose, but Lucy goes through some heavy-duty struggles that once again put them on the run. The heart-wrenching journey of these three souls is only more powerful because of the love they have for each other. By the end, you'll be rooting for them while wiping away tears.
February 9, 2018
This story is well written and well plotted. I felt completely immersed in the world of Lucy. I have never read a gang related story before and the author did not shy away from telling the story as it is, and I think that is what I loved the most - the truth of the matter - how sometimes circumstances make us do things we never would have done otherwise. I really enjoyed reading this book. Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC.
September 8, 2017
The synopsis of this book intrigued me and I looked forward to reading it. However, I was a little disappointed and having read others reviews, it seems I am in the minority.
I very much enjoyed the first half of the book, however I felt the second part of the book didn't quite match up. The story is told from three different points of view, the two sisters Lucy and Ruth, and their mother. I was confused whether the story was in the present or the past, as it seemed both tenses seemed to be used. Overall, it is a good plot I just feel some parts of the story should have been explored with more detail.
I very much enjoyed the first half of the book, however I felt the second part of the book didn't quite match up. The story is told from three different points of view, the two sisters Lucy and Ruth, and their mother. I was confused whether the story was in the present or the past, as it seemed both tenses seemed to be used. Overall, it is a good plot I just feel some parts of the story should have been explored with more detail.
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