This novel was recommended as “a novel that comforts,” and it certainly lives up to that. The Chicago author, with a reputation as a short story writer, tries his hand with his debut novel. I love “collecting” debut novels and was able to find this 2009 publication at 1/2 Price Books.
Any author who selects his idea/title from the beginning of a Walt Whitman poem already earns an “excellent” rating as far as I’m concerned.
And then, the “read” itself…mystery,real love, trying times, and the quest/journey to find the cradle are handled well. What “happens” in the novel is unpredictable and avoids being “formulaic.” The author keeps his reader turning the pages with expectation and curiosity to see what happens next. Secrets are revealed, interesting people make appearances, and “connections” and serendipity abound. It is a good “read.”
I give the novel a 4 1/2 out of 5 for its ingenuity and the way the reader feels when she finishes it.
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Author: Rae Longest
This year (2019) finds me with 50 plus years of teaching "under my belt." I have taught all levels from pre-K "(library lady" or "book lady"--volunteer) to juniors, seniors, and graduate students enrolled in my Advanced Writing class at the university where I have just completed 30 years. My first paying teaching job was junior high, and I spent 13 years with ages 12-13, the "difficult years." I had some of the "funnest" experiences with this age group. When I was no longer the "young, fun teacher," I taught in an elementary school setting before sixth graders went on to junior high, teaching language arts blocs, an assignment that was a "dream-fit" for me. After completing graduate school in my 40s, I went on to community college, then university teaching.
Just as teaching is "in my blood," so is a passion for reading, writing, libraries, and everything bookish.
This blog will be open to anyone who loves books, promotes literacy and wants to "come out and play."
View all posts by Rae Longest
powerfulwomenreaders 
Wow. That’s a very high rating. Thank you for sharing it with us.
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Re your comment (thanks for it, by the way!) I am an easy grader. Any tips on how to “rate”?
Date: Fri, 17 Jun 2016 22:00:19 +0000 To: raelongest300@msn.com
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