Ruby and Ash are best friends. They tell each other everything. Almost everything.
When Ruby gives birth in her History class, much to the surprise of her teacher and classmates but most of all to Ruby herself, secrets and lies take over as she comes to terms with being a young mum in a seemingly unforgiving world.
Navigating the early days of motherhood amid sitting her exams, she is emotionally vulnerable, scared and stressed as she’s urged to answer questions about the dad and more. Ruby’s world is in turmoil and she doesn’t know who to believe or trust when it comes to her baby and the new role she has in life.
Her best friend, Ash, has always been there for her but if Ruby shares the truth, she will only hurt those she loves the most. No one will listen as her baby is placed out with her care, so she takes matters into her own hands. Well-meaning yet clueless adults who are oblivious to her needs mixed with her uncaring mum’s demands and continual disappointment in her, send Ruby spiralling.
Louisa Reid has created an astounding story of love, loss and teenage pregnancy life.
Stigma, gossip and misinformation are explored in great depth in ‘Handle With Care’ and the outcome for young mum Ruby in this novel is a stark reminder to all to look out for those you hold dear regardless of their circumstances.
This novel should be part of every high school’s curriculum, the relevant themes within are essential reading for all to ensure empathy and understanding prevail.
With an eye catching cover by Karl Modén, designed by Ness Wood, it’s out now published by Guppy Books.
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