Dream Within a Dream, written by Patricia MacLachlan. Margaret K. McElderry Books, Simon & Schuster. 2019. $8.99 ages 7 and up

 

"So here is my startling story about dance night. 
It is dark on the porch, but the music and white 
lights make it pleasant and that word "enchanted."
"Bored, remember," says Theo. 
But it turns out that it is Theo who is bored in the end.
He watches as George puts his hand on my waist and 
takes my hand."

It's summer as usual for Louisa and her younger brother Theo. Or, is it? They have come to Deer Island to spend it with their beloved grandparents, Boots and Jake. Their globe-trotting, bird-watching parents are off on another adventure; their children left to spend the summer on the island they love so much. The four have a very close relationship; all are happy to have each other. 

Louisa is averse to change. She tells her grandmother that, in no uncertain terms. Theo loves the peace and quiet of island like, happy to be free of their parents' ever-changing adventure. It is distressing for Louisa to learn that her vibrant, loving grandfather is losing his sight to macular degeneration. Although he is upbeat, Louisa knows it will greatly affect his independence. It isn't long until Jake introduces George, the son of a nearby family. Jake is teaching George to drive, even though he is too young to have a license. 

The connection between George and Louisa is immediate, and sweet ... a reflection of what had happened when Jake met Boots. They are attracted to each other, appreciating what is special about each and often able to communicate without words. Louisa begins to appreciate change as she spends time with George and his parents, and recognizes that community can be a powerful thing for all involved. 

I am ever impressed with Ms. MacLachlan's capacity for creating characters who matter to readers. She does so in spare prose that is emotional and memorable. She connects people and lives with great compassion and understanding. There is drama, presented with a soft and empathetic touch always. Louisa's first-person narration has her living in my heart, and wanting to step into a classroom to share her story.