This book has been around for a long time; I am just reading it now because I loved Jack Gantos’  Norvelt books. Joey Pigza is a character! He has ADHD, and a good heart. He was raised at first by a loving (but abusive grandma) who also has untreated ADHD, then rescued by the Mom who abandoned him. Naturally, his lack of impulse control gets him into crazy  predicaments. Sometimes funny, often edgy and bizarre, Jack writes a heartbreaking story that reminds me how human we all are. I want to go hug all those difficult kids and tell them that they are good kids. It may even help them to read this book! The family situation alone may encourage the many kids who have similarly challenging families. Thank you Jack Gantos!