Unclaimed Baggage by Jen Doll

UNCLAIMED BAGGAGE by Jen Doll frankly has a horrible cover, but get over it and read this young adult novel about three friends who learn much about themselves and each other while spending the summer working at Unclaimed Baggage - a store which specializes in selling the goods left behind at lost luggage. Doris, Nell and Grant actually each have quite a bit of emotional baggage, but somehow that helps them to be accepting of each other and to transform in an endearing way as the story progresses.   Doris is a free spirit, accepting of others and talented at finding lost items. Nell, a rising high school Junior, has just moved to Alabama from Illinois and is missing the love of her life. Grant was “Mr. Popular” and the star high school quarterback until his drinking was out of control and he was involved in an accident that injured his head cheerleader girlfriend.

I really loved the originality of the premise here and enjoyed the ready friendship that forms between Doris and Nell, eventually encompassing Grant.  This is a “feel good” young adult novel that simultaneously tackles tough issues like alcohol abuse, sexual assault, and racism. UNCLAIMED BAGGAGE received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly. I also agree with School Library Journal which says fans of Morgan Matson will enjoy this book [despite the cover]. There’s definite appeal for late middle school and early high school students.