OK for Now by Gary Schmidt

What an easy, enjoyable read.  Written in the perspective of a young 8th grader who moves to Maryville NY with a troubled family.  The mother holds the 3 boys together emotionally, as the father is a drunk, liar and all-around jerk.  The small town offers Doug special people who take an interest in him -Lil, her dad, some teachers, some delivery clients , and Mr. Powell -the librarian and artist-- they all add their twist to Doug's new life and he, in turn, becomes stronger and more hopeful.  The author totally writes in the vernacular of the kid and it's great.  He also uses the venue of art to help Doug see himself and others (Audobon's pictures of birds -- one noble, one courageous, one coming alongside a friend, one finding a way out of an impossible situation..).  Difficult, fun, great ending.