Jackson remembers what it was like when his family lived out of their minivan for over three months when he was younger. He remembers how his parents tried to make light of the situation and their lack of money. He also remembers that it was the first time he met Crenshaw--a large black and white cat who was his "imaginary" friend throughout that difficult time. That was a three years ago, and Jackson hasn't seen Crenshaw since his family got back into their current apartment. Lately, though, it seems Jackson's parents are arguing and worrying over money again, and they've started gathering things to put in a yard sale: the kids' bed frames, the television,.... Jackson is worried about what this means-- he doesn't want to leave his current school and his friend, Marisol, and he definitely doesn't want to live in the van again. When Jackson starts catching glimpses of Crenshaw here and there, he isn't sure what it means, but he worries that it isn't good news.Crenshaw is Katherine Applegate's tale of how one young boy tries to cope with the very adult, "mature" problem of poverty and homelessness. It is easy to like Jackson, and to appreciate his desire for his parents to be honest with him and not gloss over the problems the family is having. This is a story that deals with this sensitive topic honestly but with care for the feelings of its young audience.