SEE YOU DOWN THE ROAD

This absorbing drama explores a reclusive American subculture of con artists called the “Travelers.” Sixteen-year-old Bridget appears to be living a life that many adolescents might envy. Her parents don’t want her to go to school, hold a job, or read books. Instead, they expect her to become a wandering thief and swindler like themselves. Bridget appears to have no choice. She’ll soon enter an arranged marriage with 18-year-old Patrick, then submit to her culture’s centuries-old rules for women. Although Bridget has strong feelings for handsome, responsible Patrick, she struggles against her preordained fate and begins to feel guilty about stealing. Readers learn eventually that she can choose to leave her family forever for a normal life. Bridget’s final choice, the adventures that lead to it, and the depiction of the Travelers’ lives make this a fascinating tale that will hook readers early and keep them thinking. (Fiction. 12-15)