Books like How to steal a car by Pete Hautman

In Pete Hautman's YA novel, Kelleigh, a 15‑year‑old suburban high schooler, learns her driving privileges but soon finds herself drawn into car theft during a summer break. As she grapples with the unclear reasons behind her choices, the story unfolds against a backdrop of family dynamics and personal discovery, exploring how teenage impulses can clash with ordinary expectations. The novel follows Kelleigh’s internal struggle and the consequences of her actions, providing a candid look at adolescent rebellion, the complexities of family relationships, and the moral questions that arise when a seemingly ordinary teenager turns to wrongdoing. Through Kelleigh’s narrative voice, readers witness the tension between youthful curiosity and accountability, set within familiar suburban surroundings where the allure of freedom leads her down a surprising and challenging path.

First publish date: 2009