Because I Am Furniture by Thalia Chaltas

Anke’s father is abusive. But not to her. He attacks her brother and sister, but she’s just an invisible witness in a house of horrors, on the brink of disappearing altogether. Until she makes the volleyball team at school. At first just being exhausted after practice feels good, but as Anke becomes part of the team, her confidence builds. When she learns to yell “Mine!” to call a ball, she finds a voice she didn’t know existed. For the first time, Anke is seen and heard. Soon, she’s imagining a day that her voice will be loud enough to rescue everyone at home—including herself.
This story was amazing. It is written in a poetic format. I think the story was very detailed on the tragic story of a very messed up family. Anke's father was abusive to her older brother physically and to her older sister sexually and physically. But to him Anke was just furniture which means she doesn't get hit, doesn't get fondled, and doesn't get loved.
I was so proud and happy when Anke made the school's volleyball team even though her father was against it. I hated and still hate Anke's mother, because she KNEW everything that was going on, and she chose not to say or do anything. And her excuse? "I was shielded by my love for your father." That she did what was best for her marriage not her family. I was and still am furious that someone could let their husband RAPE their daughter every night and say nothing about it. It took a few volleyball games for Anke to gain a voice. When Anke's confronts her father when she believes he has officially crossed the line, things get Overly dramatic!
I am saddened that some people around the world have the same sad reality that Anke faced. But i assure all of you that a happy ending is in place if you pick up the phone and call for help! Don't wait until it's too late!
This book was very strong, and i only suggest it to very mature readers that are over 13 years of age.

Without further or due i classify this book as
WORTH READING
5 STARS