One More Step( Series - Orca Soundings )

A title in the new Orca Soundings series aimed at reluctant teen readers. Still angry and hurt over his parents' separation, which happened when he was a baby, 14-year-old Julian is wary of his mother's relationship with Paul. Julian realizes he and his brother must allow their mother to find happiness. But on a road trip with his mother and Paul, Julian finds that love--and happiness--comes in many guises.

My parents divorced when I was a year old. That's always my opening line when I have to write about myself in English class. If nothing else, it helps to get the teacher on my side from the start. The line works okay with girls too. Fourteen-year-old Julian's parents separated when he was a baby and he is still angry and hurt. His mother has had relationships since - all of which have ended disastrously - but this time it seems serious. Jean-Paul looks like he might be the real thing. Julian is wary - and critical - as he comes to terms with the fact that he and his brother may have to let down their defences and allow their mother to find happiness. On a road trip with his mother and her new beau, Julian finds that love - and happiness - come in many guises. In the end, he realizes that it is not blood that determines true family, but the willingness to stand together.