Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses substance abuse and overdose.

In her author’s note at the end of the novel, Kathleen Glasgow states:

When we think about the twenty million people facing substance abuse disorder, we also have to think about the people not included in that number who are touched by it in some way. Family members. Friends. Schools. Communities. And when you add those people, the number of people affected by addiction rises exponentially. (379)

Inspired by a note she found at an author event from a young girl whose sister had an addiction, Glasgow chose to write You’d Be Home Now from the perspective of Emory, a family member affected by her brother’s substance abuse. Through Emory’s eyes, the narrative portrays the immense impact that addiction has on those on the periphery. Glasgow also explores the consequences of addiction on those outside the family and into the community at large.

After bearing the burden of Joey’s addiction alone for a year, Emory is depleted emotionally. When Joey returns from rehab, Emory struggles to trust him and the emotional strain continues as she lives in constant fear of him relapsing. Joey’s addiction often plunges the entire household into emotional tension and turmoil.