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KLEPTO
ALAN Review, Winter 2005 by Moore, Melissa
Abuse/Family Relationships/Kleptomania KLEPTO by Lori Weber Lorimer & Co, 2004, 160 pp., $4.99 ISBN: 1-55028-836-9
Kat's authentic voice shares the disturbing tale of the abuse she has experienced at the hands of her older sister Hannah. When Hannah is sent to a group home for dealing drugs, Kat is the only one relieved at her departure. Yet, for reasons she doesn't comprehend, Kat begins to shoplift and relishes the feelings of control. When it's clear Hannah is soon to return home, Kat's stealing escalates, rushing to consequences inevitable yet surprising.
Weber's first novel honestly conveys the anguish over parental neglect, the oftentimes ugliness of life, and brutality of an abortion (Hannah's). The heaviness of Kat's story is alleviated in part by best friend Anita's search for her birth mother and next-doorneighbor-turned-hunk Andy's gentle, supportive presence. Kat's tale addresses important issues in a tone which respects teens and their issues. Because of the nature of some of these issues, this title is recommended for readers age 14 and older.
Melissa Moore
Jackson, TN
Copyright Assembly on Literature for Adolescents -- National Council of Teachers of English Winter 2005
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