Irreverent, foulmouthed seventeen-year-old Cricket is the oldest ward in a Catholic boys’ home in Maine—and his life sucks. With prospects for the future that range from professional fighter to professional drug dealer, he seems doomed to a life of “criminal rapscallinity.” In fact, things look so bleak that Cricket can’t help but wonder if his best option is one final cliff dive into the great unknown. But then Wynona Bidaban steps into his world, and Cricket slowly realizes that maybe, just maybe, life doesn’t totally suck.

He’s supposed to be a lost cause. What happens when one person refuses to give up on him?

• Cynical Hero: Cricket is foulmouthed, scarred, and the oldest kid in a Catholic boys’ home. He’s convinced his life sucks—and he’s not afraid to say so.
• First Love: He’s all sharp edges and sarcasm until Wynona Bidaban steps into his world. She’s the one person who might prove life doesn’t totally suck.
• Found Family: As the unofficial protector of the younger boys, Cricket has built his own kind of family in the last place he ever expected.
• Heartbreak and Hope: Behind the irreverent attitude is a kid haunted by his past. This moving, realistic novel tackles serious themes, including suicidal thoughts, with unflinching honesty and dark humor.