Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow follows 17-year-old Charlotte "Charlie" Davis as she recovers from significant trauma, including self-harm and homelessness, through art and community support. After being discharged from a group home, Charlie moves to Tucson, navigates complex relationships, and ultimately finds healing and purpose with the guidance of new friends and mentors. This book includes depictions of self-harm, abuse, and suicide attempts.

Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow has garnered mixed reviews. Readers praise its raw, honest portrayal of trauma and self-destruction, commending the deep emotional resonance and strong character development. However, some critique the graphic content as overwhelming and believe the plot can be slow-paced. Overall, it’s a powerful yet potentially triggering read.

Readers who would enjoy Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow are typically fans of intense, emotional Young Adult fiction that explores themes of trauma, self-harm, and recovery. Similar audiences might appreciate Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher and Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson for their raw, evocative storytelling and focus on overcoming personal struggles.

Melancholic / Emotional / Unnerving / Dark

- Girl in Pieces is Kathleen Glasgow's debut novel, showcasing her emergence as a powerful new voice in young adult literature.
- The novel addresses important issues such as mental health and resilience, which have sparked important conversations among readers and educators.
- Girl in Pieces was named a New York Times Bestseller, reflecting its impact and popularity since its release.

**Charlotte “Charlie” Davis**  
Charlie is the first-person narrator dealing with recovery from past traumas and her struggle to find her voice after being left temporarily mute.

**Mikey**  
Mikey is a loyal friend from Charlie’s past who remains a stable presence in her life despite living in Arizona and developing his own career and life.

**Riley West**  
Riley is a former musician working at his sister’s coffeehouse, whose complex relationship with Charlie involves moments of care intertwined with manipulation due to his struggles with addiction.

**Blue**  
Blue is a fellow resident at Creeley who initially clashes with Charlie but later becomes a supportive figure in her recovery journey while dealing with her own personal challenges.

Kathleen Glasgow

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Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Girl in Pieces and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Girl in Pieces Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Pages 3-47

Girl in Pieces Part 1, Pages 3-47 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Pages 48-102

Girl in Pieces Part 1, Pages 48-102 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Pages 103-166

Girl in Pieces Part 2, Pages 103-166 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Pages 167-240

Girl in Pieces Part 2, Pages 167-240 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Pages 241-304

Girl in Pieces Part 2, Pages 241-304 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Pages 305-356

Girl in Pieces Part 3, Pages 305-356 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Pages 357-398

Girl in Pieces Part 3, Pages 357-398 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Girl in Pieces Character Analysis

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Themes

Girl in Pieces Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Girl in Pieces Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Girl in Pieces Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Girl in Pieces Essay Topics

Girl in Pieces

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Girl in Pieces?

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Book Details