Seventeen-year-old Miles, introverted and overweight, has always stood in the shadow of her beautiful cousin Laura. As close as sisters, their bond is what holds Miles together. When Laura commits suicide, Miles' life changes forever. But, not all changes are bad, and after Miles hits rock bottom, she begins to learn who she really was meant to be.

This is an excellent book about loss, love, and the patchwork of loved ones that can make up a family. Laura's suicide (overdose on pills) is referenced but not described. It is suggested that she quietly suffered from Bipolar Disorder, and her uncle who had the disorder years ago, also committed suicide. Before her death, Miles and Laura got high on prescription pills together. Miles continues this practice as she is unchaperoned after her mother leaves for London. However, Miles has remarkable and supportive adults and friends in her life that steer her towards making better choices and recovery. Miles accidentally overdoses and quits pills for good. There is a scene at a house party where drugs of all kinds taken. Making out occurs. The characters in this book are strong and admirable, from the well-educated African-American female principal/philanthropist who refuses to let Miles drop out of school, to Miles' elderly gay benefactor (adopted father to Laura) who gets her volunteering. Even Miles's former drug-addict deadbeat dad is a stand-up guy, and comes to care for her and get her clean. This book is on one of Oprah's Book Club suggested reading lists.

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