My Brother the Shadow - Ralph Fletcher

An unflinching portrayal of brotherhood in the face of addiction, told in gripping and heartfelt verse, perfect for reluctant readers who enjoyed Long Way Down and The Canyon’s Edge

Twelve-year-old Marco has always felt close to his older brother, Chase. Somewhat shy, Marco feels a bit braver in the presence of Chase’s reckless confidence. But when his brother goes to college, Marco can immediately tell something is off. Chase’s words slur when he calls, and his grades start to drop. Soon Chase is asked to leave school. When he returns home, he’s a shell of himself and Marco can’t recognize the brother he once knew. Even Marco’s parents are at a loss for how to help Chase, and every day introduces a new reason to worry. Feeling trapped, Marco throws himself into photography as a way to cope. But when an overdose devastates their community, Marco can’t shake the feeling that Chase could be next.

Inspired by renowned poet Ralph Fletcher's lived experience with a family member battling addiction, this powerful novel-in-verse features a thoughtful protagonist navigating difficult family circumstances. The story includes stunning photography that encapsulates the emotional world of the narrator.