I’m a sucker for any story about a child overcoming the odds, especially when they are huge with talent and personality like Rachel Crow. The adorable, and she is adorable, 13-year-old X Factor contestant reportedly had a tough start to life, including as a crack baby. Fortunately, Rachel was adopted out of a bad situation into a better life while still an infant. The young teen is a little spitfire, in a really good way. I love her.


She’s got my vote.


Read the story and watch Rachel in action here.

Photo Jenna Winter 2011