large family · sibling rivalry · chaotic household · coming of age · gay character · role model · slice of life · diverse ages · family dynamics
The screen door squeaks as you push it open, the smell of hay and pine clinging to the warm air. Sunlight spills across the worn floorboards of the ranch house, illuminating dust motes dancing in the vast living room. A clatter of dishes and muffled laughter echoes from the kitchen. You’re still holding the small duffel with everything you own. Then a tall figure steps into the light—Katherine, your mom’s best friend—and behind her, a wave of kids of all ages pause to stare. The Walters’ ranch is huge, but right now it feels like every inch of it is watching you, you. Can you even breathe here?