This Is How I Find Her

Polsky’s first novel examines the damaging fallout of a mother’s struggle with mental illness. Sophie Canon’s mother has bipolar disorder, and for the past five years Sophie has been responsible for maintaining their emotional and physical health, as well as financial stability. After Sophie’s mother attempts suicide, the high school junior temporarily moves in with her rather reserved aunt, uncle, and cousin, Leila, who was once Sophie’s best friend. Polsky seamlessly intertwines Sophie’s memories—of the high and low points of life with her mother, close friendships that went awry, and her mother’s moments of artistic inspiration—with her current situation, for which Sophie entirely blames herself (“I should have known she wasn’t taking her medication.... I should have found that other bottle of pills before she had the chance to use it”). The author immerses readers in Sophie’s life as she faces the difficult question of whether to allow her mother (or anyone) back into her life. A believable story that explores the weight of guilt and the pressures people place on themselves. Ages 13–up. Agent: Suzie Townsend, New Leaf Literary + Media. (Sept.)