• Age: 14 to 18
• Grade: 9 to 12
• Reading age: 7 to 10

Ethan is trying his hardest to get some attention from his family, but his dad's focus is always directed towards troubled stepsister Haley. When a dark secret threatens to destroy his family life, Ethan turns to his hacking skills to figure out who to believe: his father or Haley. He must also deal with the fact that he has spent his life striving to be just like his dad, someone he may not really know -- or want to be -- at all.

KIM FIRMSTON is a writer and creative writing instructor in Calgary, AB. Her short story "Life Before War" was shortlisted for the 2008 CBC Literary Awards.

www.kimfirmston.com

Kim Firmston's profile page

• Commended, One of the Year's Best for 2013 - Resource Links
• Commended, Best Books for Kids & Teens - Canadian Children's Book Centre

"The story with its controversial and topical subject is fast-paced and thrilling but not too complicated and thus a perfect read also for reluctant teenage readers."

ReaderAlex blog

"The plot keeps the reader interested with constant twists... [SideStreets titles are recommended to supplement an already solid hi-lo collection."

VOYA

"What makes Touch successful is that the events are driven by the characters personalities... readers looking for a fast-moving, realistic story will be well satisfied with Touch." Highly Recommended.

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

"Firmston has added another satisfying read to the SideStreets series . . . this title will have no trouble snagging anyone who appreciates glimpses into the hidden lives that other teens live."

Booklist Online

"Kim Firmston has a good solid plot here in Touch, adding Ethan's finesse with technology, to provide readers with greater substance on which to focus our story demands."

CanLit for Little Canadians

The SideStreets series has another hit with Touch. The technology references ring true...the reader is given an insider perspective on the psychology of this type of family tragedy. Rated E, excellent, enduring, everyone should see it!

Resource Links

"This book is part of Lorimer's fantastic SideStreets collection. So far every book I've read in this series has been really interesting-- lots of action with complex, thought-provoking situations. I think these books are just perfect for silent reading in class or a day at the beach. This book made me think about relationships and trying to decide who matters in my life. The characters rang true for me, and I would recommend this book to any grade 9 or 10 student. Pick this one up, or any of the other Lorimer books for a great quick read."

Henry Street High School Library Blog