LULLABIES FOR LITTLE CRIMINALS by HEATHER O’NEILL

This book is not for the faint of heart, not because it is really graphic, but rather because of the range of experiences it covers.

The main character, Baby, is a girl born to two teenagers and the story is of her tragic life that ensues.  Not that you really get the sense that it is tragic from her perspective — it is her normal.  However, her normal includes losing her mother as an infant, a drug addicted father, poverty, foster care, prostitution . . . need I say more?!

This book will teach you about the reality of poverty, and the affects on children and their future prospects.  The author does a brilliant job of endearing Baby to you, and the humor a child can use to adapt to their circumstances.  You will fall in love with Baby and her resilience, all the way hoping it ends well for her.