Reaching Dustin

Reaching Dustin by Grove, Vicki. paperback edition. ISBN: 9780698118393.

When Carly Cameron picks Dustin Groats name for a class interview assignment, she feels like screaming. Almost everyone in her community fears the Groats--a gun-toting, lawbreaking clan that lives on the edge of town. Sure enough, the first few interviews confirm Carlys suspicions: like the rest of his family, Dustin is surly and unresponsive. But as time goes by, Carly uncovers the tragic truth about Dustins home life, and realizes that behind the tough exterior is a scared and unhappy boy who desperately needs a friend."Very human. Brimming with compassion." --Kirkus Reviews