"Almost Home" is a young adult novel by Joan Bauer, published in 2012. The book tells the story of a 12-year-old girl named Sugar Mae Cole, who becomes homeless after her grandfather dies and her house is sold. Sugar and her mother move from motel to motel, struggling to make ends meet and keep their spirits up in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges, Sugar remains determined to find a way to make a better life for herself and her mother. She gets a job at a dog kennel and begins to save money, hoping to eventually buy a house of their own. Along the way, Sugar meets a cast of colorful characters, including a feisty elderly woman who lives in a trailer park and a kind-hearted couple who run the dog kennel. Through her experiences, Sugar learns about the power of resilience, the importance of friendship, and the meaning of home. "Almost Home" is a heartwarming and uplifting story that will resonate with readers of all ages, offering a powerful message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity.