I can’t even imagine living in a dust storm, says Kellie. I really felt like I was right there with Billie Jo.
Yeah, me too, says Saida, ’cause my dad is sad a lot too.
He’s sad because he lost his job, Saida, Maisha says to her sister, and then we’re all quiet, ’cause that is sad.
Well, I like that Mad Dog likes her,
but why doesn’t he just tell her? Annie says.
You mean like you wish Robbie Howard would tell you? Kellie giggles.
And that’s when you realize you’re in a book club
with all girls, which is insane.
April smiles at you. What do you think, Nick? she asks.
Just then, your mom comes out
of the kitchen
with a tray of cookies,
and,
get this,
tea, and
now you’re sipping tea
with a bunch of girls, and
so glad
that no guys
are here
to see you.
What were you about to say, Nick?
Uh, I was just gonna, uh, say
that I liked it, I guess.
Did you have a favorite part? she asks.
You know your mom’s listening
from the kitchen when you say, Yeah,
on page 205
when Billie Jo
tells her dad,
I can’t be my own mother . . .