In New Jersey, a young, single mother struggles to give her developmentally challenged son a happy and normal life.

Nonfiction author Morales’ first novel alternates among three charismatic, resilient characters. Ricky Rios, who describes himself as “a little slow,” has strained since childhood to advocate for himself. Despite inadequate help from educators and frequent bullying, he grows into a semi-independent adult, thanks to his mother Raven’s unwavering love and support. At 23 years old, he stocks shelves at ShopRite and enjoys the company of his co-worker Wallace, a paternal figure for Ricky, who never met his father. When Wallace dies in a tragic incident, Ricky’s life begins to unravel. Raven, a young Latine woman, grew up in the rough neighborhood of Mount Pleasant in Newark, raised by the volatile Tia Titi. In chapters detailing abuse, deprivation, and financial hardships, Raven reflects on her inner strength that ultimately led to choosing a career in nursing and raising Ricky alone after getting pregnant at 15. The mother-son bond is tested when the third narrator, a mysterious benefactor named Joe, befriends Ricky. Suspicious about Joe’s true motives, Raven begins her own investigation into his past. While the novel is slow to find its footing and occasionally sounds like a political pamphlet, its charm lies in the authenticity of Ricky’s voice. Childlike but profound, he cuts to the heart of the matter. Observing that his mother reacts with more emotion to the happy and sad events in his life than he does, Ricky concludes: “Maybe that’s what love is, feeling the other person’s feeling more than they do.” Through the complex emotional landscapes of Ricky, Raven, and Joe, Morales deftly tackles the difficult issues of teen pregnancy, domestic abuse, loss, and redemption, ultimately finding hope in lives that appear doomed by society.

An engaging, optimistic family tale that spotlights strong characters.