SOMEBODY'S SOMEONE

A candid performance like this one by Amanda Kelley occurs only once in a blue moon. Twelve-year old Ruby has a unique relationship with her mother, Ruthie, who has repeated episodes of disappearing due to mental illness. Aided by her loving aunt, Ruby is yet again on a quest to find Ruthie. Kelley narrates Ruby's steadfast determination to find her mother and her clever observations about her experiences with homeless people. A thread running through Ruby's story is her belief that every person matters. Kelley sensitively delivers all the story's grace, humor, and hope. Her performance may even be a conversation starter for families. The topic of mental illness is rare to find in middle-grade fiction. G.M. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2025]