Right Behind You by Gail Giles

Kip McFarland was nine years old when he set another boy on fire, killing him. After many years in an Alaskan psych ward, Kip is being released but due to the hostility surrounding his release, Kip will have to assume a new identity and move with his father to the mainland. Now known as Wade, Kip is struggling to fit in with normal teens and keep his previous life secret. When he reveals his secret to a group of "friends", Kip and his family are forced to move again and start over. Determined not to ruin his family's lives anymore than he already had, Kip becomes a recluse until he meets Sam, the girl next door who is hiding some pretty big secrets of her own. Kip's struggles to overcome the tragedy of his past are heartfelt and sincere. The compelling storyline will keep readers engaged and involved in this quick read. Giles' novel is not only perfect for reluctant readers but would also lend itself to a discussion on redemption and forgiveness.