“You can’t put your life on hold for somebody else, you know? Sometimes you just have to do what you have to do to make yourself happy. And if you’re not, like, solid with yourself, how can you help somebody else?” –  Kathleen Glasgow.

Let me begin by emphasizing the profound impact of this story, “You’d Be Home Now.” It dips into uncomfortable subjects, evoking a sense of brokenness yet offering glimpses of hope. It tugs at your heartstrings relentlessly, compelling you to read on even when it feels overwhelming. Despite its somber tone, this book’s gripping narrative ensures you won’t be able to set it aside.

At its core, this book confronts the affliction of addiction, particularly within the context of the opioid epidemic, and its far-reaching consequences on communities, schools, and the family unit. Most notably, it explores the complexities of sibling relationships, vividly illustrating how sibling bonds can fracture under the weight of addiction’s grip.

Emory has always felt invisible, overshadowed by her picture-perfect older sister, Maddie. Meanwhile, her brother Joey grapples with his own demons, which come to a head one fateful night after a party. Joey’s involvement with drugs leads to a tragic car accident, leaving a young girl dead.

Emory, also in the car, suffers a leg injury, while both siblings face ostracism at school. Joey is forced into rehab, as part of their parents’ efforts to salvage their social standing and “fix” their children. But Emory harbors her own secrets, torn between craving recognition and dreading the consequences of her hidden life.

As months pass and Emory’s worlds collide, she must navigate her own path while supporting her brother’s recovery, hoping to prevent another devastating loss.

Glasgow shows us how addiction touches everyone and everything in its orbit. This story is about wanting so much to keep someone safe that you’d do anything for them. But what if love isn’t enough to save someone? While love might not provide the ultimate remedy, unwavering belief and support during challenging moments are indispensable. Sometimes, this steadfast presence is the most significant contribution one can offer.

“Sometimes your life falls to ash and you sift through, waiting for the pain to pass, looking for the remnants in the debris, something to save, when really all you need is right there, inside you.” – Kathleen Glasgow

This book can be found at the Lincoln County Library. It is also available on the Libby app as an eAudiobooks, eBook and available for your Kindle. It  is a Soaring Eagle Book Award Nominee for the 2023-24 year. The Soaring Eagle Book Award is sponsored by the Wyoming Library Association and the Wyoming State Literacy Association.