Unclaimed Baggage

Gr 9 Up—Nell moves from Chicago to Alabama in the middle of her high school career; she's not happy about leaving her boyfriend or her friends behind. She winds up working at a store that sells lost or left behind items from airports. Nell connects with her new coworker Doris. Together they start bonding with Grant. He used to be the town football hero before he drove while drunk, smashed his car, and broke his girlfriend's arm. Now he's trying desperately to regain control over alcohol and his life. The change of pace at the store from his football friends is helping him. They form a tight-knit trio who work to overcome their personal baggage and find their true selves. Doll's YA debut packs a punch. Nestled into this breezy book about friendship and love sits conversations on racism, religion, sexual assault, alcoholism, and life choices. The friendship among Nell, Doris, and Grant creates a safe place where the three of them can come to terms with issues and not be judged. The quirky store where they work sets the tone for the novel.