Love, Aubrey, written by Suzanne LaFleur. Wendy Lamb Books, Random House, 2009. $17.99 ages 10 and up

“It turned out everything I needed had to fit in three bags. One for Gram to carry with her own bag, and two for me to carry. I didn’t have any luggage, just a backpack. Gram said to take something from Mom and Dad’s room. She was busy, for some reason believing the house had to be clean before we left. While she scoured the kitchen counters, I went upstairs to my parents’ room.”

When Aubrey's father and little sister are killed in a car accident, she and her mother must find a new way of living their life together, but alone. As they struggle, her mother slips into a deep depression and is unable to take care of herself, much less her daughter. One day she simply disappears and Aubrey fends for herself...until her grandmother makes the discovery and comes to rescue her and take her to Vermont. In the skilled hands of her loving, stable grandmother and a new friend, Bridget, who love and support her and, with her own willingness to write letters to the important people in her life to help her voice her sorrow and confusion, Aubrey begins to find her way through the abyss. She learns to smile again, to laugh and to find some peace in her world. She also finds out where her mother has gone, and that she is in treatment to help her deal with her problems. In the end, Aubrey must make a momentous decision about how her life will go from here, and she shows great courage as she does just that.

The story is heartbreaking and hopeful...but it wreaked havoc on my tear ducts and my emotions. I cried myself through some of the more poignant moments, and wondered how a mother could ever leave her 11 year old daughter on her own. That also made me aware of the huge price that one pays when dealing with mental health issues, gone untreated. Aubrey's mother needed help, as much as Aubrey did. Luckily, they both found what they needed to help the healing really begin.

Wild Animals, written by Eduardo Bustos and illustrated by Lucho Rodriguez.

"Koala: My home is in Australia. My fur is soft and my ways are gentle. I carry my babies on my back as we feast on the leaves of the eucalyptus tree. Just like hands, my fingers grip the branches to keep me safe."

"Spotted Owl: My enormous eyes rest during the day, but at night, I'm perched up in a tree, scanning the ground beneath me. You'll find me in North America, but don't try to creep up behind me because I will see you. My head can turn almost all the way around."

In the best picture books the words and artwork each add a dimension that alone would not have the same effect. This is such a book! The author describes 11 wild animals of the world in a riddle-like form, using each animal's voice to intrigue and have readers make guesses as to its name. Each is set on a double page spread with minimal text and eye-catching, brilliant-hued illustrations. The author makes note of habitat, place of origin, and special unique attributes. The illustrator shows the animal in profile and in full close-up. They are very striking, while almost geometric in design. If you have, or know, a little one who loves animal books, you would not be remiss in putting this one under the Christmas tree, or in a stocking.

Lulu's Pajamas, written by Lucie Papineau and illustrated by Stephane Jorisch. Kids Can, 2009. $16.95 ages 2 and up

"My name is Lulu. This is Mama and Papa, the best mama and papa in the world. And this, of course, is Lili-Poo, my one and only ladybug."

Simple text, expressive illustrations and a story meant to validate the need for a young child to have a say in clothing choice...this is a story that will be read repeatedly at bedtime for its reassuring and relevant issues. Mama is always willing to share a story and Papa sings a goodnight song, as Lulu snuggles up with Lili-Poo and her favorite pajamas. When Lulu decides that she cannot bear to take them off in the morning, her parents are aghast. But Lulu wins out and off she goes to school in her pjs. A long day and lots of play leave her attire a little worse for wear and not smelling as they once did. In fact, they are quite crusty and delapidated by the end of it. Ah, well! Lulu's happy...her sure voice rings true to the telling and Stephane Jorisch adds another set of just right illustrations to bring this determined daughter to life.

Chester’s Back, written by Melanie Watt. Kids Can Press, Toronto. 2008. $18.95 hardcover ages 4 and up

“Dear admirers,

Due to an OVERWHELMING amount of fan mail, I, Chester, am back with an amazing, brilliant, SMART, SUPER new book! C."

Oh boy, Chester's back with a vengeance and we are the definitely delighted viewers of the return engagement to the duelling that happens between he and his creator, the talented and very funny Melanie Watt. He has such an huge feeling of self-importance and she is bending over backwards to create a story for Chester that will satisfy him. Of course, nothing is likely to do that! He edits almost everything she writes, including the dedication and adds comments to the text, which speak to his character. His fans seem to find it quite endearing, not so his author. He perpetually adds his own spin to the story, billing himself 'the great Chesterdini' in an effort to prove himself the star, which he already is. Driven to distraction by his unending interruptions, the author looks for another star...but that will not work! Bowing to his power, she wonders what he wants and is met with a list that would make any other self-serving star seem tame. There is little subtlety in this cat's demeanor and readers will delight in the diva demands. Just when the table seem to turn on Chester, he takes it to the limit and leaves us in stitches. Hopefully you have the first Chester book (Kids Can, 2007) and you will be able to share the fun of both books (and all the laughs) at one sitting.

The Christmas Magic, written by Lauren Thompson and illustrated by Jon J Muth. Scholastic, 2009. $ 21.99 ages 4 and up

“Every year, just when the nights are longest and the stars shine brightest, Santa feels a tingling in his whiskers. Then he knows that the Christmas magic will soon be here.”

While sitting at the computer working on this post, I have been watching classic Laverne and Shirley episodes with Erin...laughing out loud and excited to watch 'just one more'. The one we are watching at the moment is called "Oh, Hear the Angels' Voices' which aired on December 21, 1976. While Lenny and Squiggy's song in honor of Santa Claus has a distinctly different tone than this beautiful book, it is worth watching!

Now, on to tell you all about this lovely, timeless holiday story. When the nights are the longest and the stars are shining brightest in the north, Santa feels a 'tingling' in his whiskers. He knows that the time is coming and he must make his preparations for the upcoming season. He brings the reindeer home and feeds them well so that they are ready for the long, arduous ride. Santa polishes the jingle bells and the sleigh, and takes care to choose the perfect gift for each child of the world. He loves each one and knows them well enough to know just exactly what it is they want. The gentle words of this tale are perfect for a Christmas Eve bedtime read. It is made more beautiful with Jon Muth's wintry pastel watercolors. They warm the cold evening air and our hearts as it is shared. It might even become a new classic for your holiday season.

A to Z of Animals: An Animal Expedition, written by Rachel Williams and illustrated by Peter David Scott. Key Porter Kids, 2009. $15.95 ages 3 and up

“Discover some fascinating facts about all the different animals you have seen in this book and a few that you might not have spotted…"

What an invitation!

There is never much to say about alphabet books about animals...except that it is a book that follows the alphabet and shows the wild animal being described. That, however, would not give this lavish book the praise that it deserves. On each page one animal is the star, and another the understudy (not so obvious, but also stunning). What a steal of a deal for this gorgeous animal alphabet! You have to see the lovely detailed artwork to believe its authenticity and dramatic power. To add to the value, the author includes fact-filled notes at the end of the book. Kids will love it!

Against the Odds, written by Marjolihn Hof. Groundwood Books, 2009. $$18.95 ages 10 and up

"My mother had been gone for quite awhile. I turned the radio on again. There was only music. I pushed all the buttons until I found a news station. It had already started. The newsperson was saying, “There is concern for his safety.”

It didn't take me long to read this book. The sentences are short and there is much dialogue; but, it has stayed with me over a number of months since reading it. That is a sure sign to me that it was worth the time, and had some very compelling moments.

Kiki's father works in war zones. As a doctor he is much needed and he sees that he has a responsibility to use his skills to help those in need. Kiki, his young daughter does not hold the same view. She wants her father, and not the worrying about him. Kiki's grandmother is furious with him for being away from his family. Now, on his latest trip, his phone calls have stopped and he cannot be contacted.

Kiki does not want anyone worrying about her as she deals with this latest event in her life. She knows she can't change her father's decision or the way the family is dealing with his missing status. It doesn't take long for her to make a plan that will allow her to keep the odds in her favor. Kiki, while intense and fearful, is ingenious and humorous as well. There is much to talk about while reading, or when finished reading, this powerful little book.

Sugar Cookies, written by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by Jane Dyer and Brooke Dyer. Harper, 2009. $17.50 all ages

"ENDEARMENT means, Come here, my sugar, my cookie, my sweet little morsel.”

If you are like me and don't particularly love to bake, but the idea of showing a little love with a gift of cookies appeals to you, run to your nearest bookstore and stock up on this lovely morsel. Amy Krouse Rosenthal has chosen a veritable menu of words associated with feelings of love, Jane and Brooke Dyer have created gentle, appealing illustrations to help the young reader move from the abstract idea to the concrete image in this delectable dictionary of words that are not often part of a young child's vocabulary. When you offer your friend the last cookie, you know what it is to be selfless. If the bowl licking calls for waiting on your friend to start, you are being considerate. And the list goes on.

More little lessons from the author of Cookies (Harper, 2006) and its bite-sized lessons on life and Christmas Cookies (Harper, 2008) with its lessons on etiquette and community, this is sure to appeal to a wide audience and will be shared with the same delicious anticipation as the real sugar cookies which you can make using the recipe at the end of the book.

Me? I think I'll buy some extra copies of the book and put one in a baking basket with a cookie sheet, some parchment paper and a copy of the recipe for future reference. MMMMM! MMMMM! Yummy!!

Long Powwow Nights, by David Bouchard and Pam Aleekuk, paintings by Leonard Paul and music by Buffy Sainte-Marie. Red Deer, 2009. $24.95 ages 6 and up

“Stay with me butterfly, help me to see
Tell me again what you dreamed I would be
You were my teacher – you still are my guide
Iskwesis, sweet butterfly – stay by my side.”

In this poetic homage to the power of the powwow and dancing, a mother is remembered for her dedication to her roots. She and her child travelled hundreds of miles to dance fancy and keep the traditions of her culture alive. Her pride was always evident as she pursued her dream and took part in the powwow. Aging and aching caused her to stop dancing and death took her from her child, but her dreams for the future continue to live on in the heart of her offspring. Her spirit remains and continues to teach as she has always done, with honor and enduring love.

What a celebration of the power of the dance! David tells the story as it was written in poetic, repetitive text with the flute and drum as accompaniement. The text is also written and told in a Mi'kmaq translation; it is lovely to listen to the sure voice of translator Patsy Paul-Martin. Following both readings, we continue the experience with Buffy Sainte Marie's music..a recording of her song, Darling, Don't Cry which is a perfect complement to this text. Leonard Paul's remarkable illustrations give life to the dancers in colorful, dramatic closeups. Their pride is evident on every page. The double page spread of dancers in silhouette is stunning. I especially love the profiles of the mother as the story moves from her youth to maturity.

This is a book to be shared, and then shared again. Having the CD allows the reader the chance to experience it on her own or with a friend.

Perfect Snow, written and illustrated by Barbara Reid. North Winds, Scholastic, 2009. $19.99 ages 4 and up

“Jim watched the clock. “At last! Conditions are perfect to build my totally massive, indestructible Snow Fortress of Doom.”

If you grew up anywhere in Canada (even here in Lotus Land Victoria), you have at one time or another had an encounter with freshly fallen snow and the overwhelming desire to get out there and build a snowman or better yet, a snow fort! I recall many days on the school playground helping, or watching, the construction and cooperative work of any number of children and adults working to get one built before the sun shone down and caused it to melt into a puddle of wet mush. Then, crossing our fingers and hoping against hope it would still be there when the final bell rang at the end of the day.

This story sprang from a family tale about an amazing snow fort built by one of Barbara's daughters. It seemed a 'perfect' start for her newest book. Scott and Jim have been waiting for the first real snow of the season and each has his own idea for what to do with it. They are as different as day and night and so is their vision; but together they are a formidable duo who garner quite the remarkable result. As she tells her story with all the skill and detail we have come to expect, Barbara Reid adds another dimension for the first time. In black and white cartoon-like vignettes, she offers up much additional information about her characters. It is information she could not possibly include in the plasticene artwork needed to tell the tale. In a short video on YouTube she tells the listener that she always draws thumbnail sketches prior to creating her trademark art, so she does not stray far in this book from what is usual to her process. But, what a plus they are to this fun story! Be on the lookout for Scott and Jim as you pore over the illustrations and don't miss the glorious two page spread of all the children doing what kids love to do when 'perfect snow' falls. Looking for a Christmas gift...what could be better?

I is for Inuksuk, written and illustrated by Mary Wallace. Maple Tree Press, Raincoast. 2009. $19.95 ages 4 and up

“Even though the Inuit no longer live as nomads, moving from place to place with the seasons, hunting caribou and seal, and living in igloos as their ancestors did, the Inuksuit remain a symbol of the Arctic.”


For many hundreds of years, the inuksuk has guided and informed the Inuit through the vast northern lands. It has now been selected as the official symbol of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and will come to be known to the peoples of the world. Its many purposes include marking spots for good hunting and fishing, a navigational aid, and s sign of happiness. In Mary Wallace's new book she celebrates the inuksuit with the letters of the alphabet and her writing also takes the form of an acrostic poem. Each entry tells the reader about the traditional way of life for northern People, and adds the offical language (Inuktitut)to its description. A pronunciation guide at the end of the book made me realize how much I needed to have it, and adds dimension to this worthwhile and welcome book. It pays homage to the people and the Arctic landscape. The full color illustrations are reminiscent of the land, using the cool colors of blue, purple and green. There is much movement here and the eye will be drawn across the color filled pages as the book is shared. Be sure to look for the hidden inukshuk on each page, and then see what the author adds concerning their history and uses at the back of the book. If you are looking for books to use while studying this year's Olympic celebrations, this is one that would be most useful and appealing. If you have guests for the Games, what a wonderful remembrance it would make of their visit!

Binky The Space Cat, written and illustrated by Ashley Spires. Kids Can Press, 2009. $7.95 ages 7 and up

"Things I know

1. Always use the litter box.
2. Fish smells yummy.
3. Miniskirts are not meant for everyone.
4. Only aliens can fly.
5. Ted is my friend."

Binky is the constant buffer between his two humans and the aliens...they seem frightened of those flying invaders. Binky has never been able to enjoy 'outer space' and wonders what it must be like. He has watched his humans get dressed in their protective gear so that they might venture away from their own space station. He tries their attire but it is a miserable experiment and he ends up falling down the stairs because of the bulk...oh, that Binky! When he finds an application for training as a space cat, he is enamored and immediately takes up the challenge. As readers follow along in this witty, well-drawn graphic novel, they will laugh at Binky's naivete and roar at the imagination in this first of many adventures, we hope! You don't have to like cats or space travel to enjoy the fun that Binky has while trying to protect his loved ones from flying insects (you know how cats love to snag the little beggars) and aching to get outside into the wild blue yonder. Even his attempt to build and equip a space ship will have you in stitches. He is persistent and is only thwarted for a short time. He has a much bigger plan for the future. You will end the reading, wanting to go back and read it all over again. I'll be on the lookout for the next exploit.

Fletcher and the Falling Leaves, written by Julia Rawlinson and illustrated by Tiphanie Beeke. Greenwillow, Harper. 2006. $7.50 ages 4 and up

"But the wind continued to blow, and the branches still danced. The leaves shivered and shook themselves and began to wiggle free. They tossed and turned and twitched and twirled and tumbled to the ground. They brushed Fletcher's ears and nose and filled his dreams with a whispering sound."

While I am basking in sunshine in Victoria and watching city workers pick up huge piles of fallen leaves, I am thinking about those buried under snow and shivering in below zero temperatures...but not every minute of the day, I have to admit! Fletcher the Fox is distruaght when he sees his tree is sick. In fact, the tree's illness is causing it to lose its leaves. His mother tries to reassure him that it is autumn and a natural phenomenon. Fletcher is not convinced; but, no matter how hard he tries, he cannot get the leaves to stay put. The winds pick up and more leaves fall. As they do, his forest friends are delighted for they use those leaves to line nests, keep themselves warm, and any manner of thing. Admitting defeat Fletcher heads for home, and his mother. When he awakens he makes an early morning visit to his tree, once more wanting to reassure himself. Imagine his surprise when he sees what weather can do to make his tree an amazing spectacle, even in the winter.

Pinkalicious, written and illustrated by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann. HarperCollins, 2006. $11.99 ages 3 and up

"Please, Mummy, can I have JUST ONE MORE?" I begged when I woke up from my nap. "You get what you get, and you don't get upset," she said."

If you like pink bubble gum, pink cotton candy, pink flowers and pink princess duds, you can be Pinkalicious' best friend! When she and her mother make pink cupcakes on a rainy day, nothing stops her from wanting to eat more, more, more. Bedtime is the only thing that stops the gorging...and when she awakens in the morning, she has a real problem. Now she is pink...pink hands, arms, legs, belly button. The craving for pink cupcakes has not faded; but the doctor has a solution. She must stop eating pink and start eating green...that is the cure! When she sneaks out for one last nosh, she has an even more glaring surprise to come. She knows what she must do, and quickly. Peter, her little brother, is not so lucky as his sister.

This is a great readaloud for the early years classroom. Kids will love the zany fun and imagination that conjures up these collage illustrations filled with bright colors and familiar images. All will enjoy the sparkle!

Me and You, written and illustrated by Geneviève Coté. Kids Can Press, 2009. $16.95 ages 3 and up

“My tail would be as curly as a lemon twist. My tail would be as fluffy as cotton candy.”

Me and You is a perfect book about true friends and their great love for each other. They want to be exactly alike. Rabbit wants to be the same color as Pig is and have all the same features. Rabbit wants to brave and noisy. Likewise, Pig wants to be pale white, have long ears, and a fluffed-up tail. Oh, to be so delicate! They make their best efforts to change but only end up looking ridiculous because it is not who they are! They see a resemblance, but seem more suited to be themselves. They love each for who they are, not what they look like. It is an important discovery to make. The story is so simply told, but with rhyme and rhythm that will appeal to its intended audience. It is wonderful to read aloud and again provides a forum for discussion with the youngest listeners. If it is true that the greatest compliment is to want to be just like your friend, these two are truly lucky. The watercolor artwork is a perfect complement to the text, showing two artists with their respective friends ( a blue butterfly and a green frog who are privy to the goings-on) as they struggle to find common ground in their quest to be like one another. Come for the story and stay for the stunning art...or the other way around. Either way you are in for a treat!

Timmerman Was Here, written by Colleen Sydor and illustrated by Nicolas Debon. Tundra, 2009. $21.99 ages 6 and up

“It seems several of our neighbors had seen Timmerman walking around late at night, carrying a spade and an old burlap sack. It didn't take long for the kids at school to fire up their imaginations, and before I knew it, there were rumors flying. Some said Timmerman was a notorious bank robber who had come to town to bury his loot. Others said he'd just gotten out of prison and had come back to dig up the money he had buried years earlier. And when Mrs. Anderson's tabby went missing, they said it wasn't money Timmerman had in his sack at all, but dead cats."

When a boarder comes to take the room that was her grandfather's, she is not happy with her mother. She is missing him and doesn't want anyone to take his place. With time and a chance, Timmerman wins her over. He is quiet and kind and even the dog likes him. He does do some mysterious things and the little girl remains somewhat skeptical; but she likes him well enough to defend his honor and earn herself a black eye. It is worth it! It is her grandfather who convinces her that she should trust herself to know what is true and right. When she takes his advice that trust is rewarded. Everyone is duly surprised by the parting gift that Timmerman leaves the neighbors.

This is a winning, gentle story with an air of mystery. That mysteriousness is evident in the shadowy illustrations created in gouache and colored pencils by Nicolas Debon. You will recognize his art if you know his other work, including Thing-Thing (Tundra, 2008), The Strongest Man in the World (Groundwood, 2007) and Four Pictures by Emily Carr (Groundwood, 2006). Together they have created a story of friendship and mystery from an earlier time. We are all better for sharing such stories with our children and students. They allow a chance to talk about many important issues in life.

When Stella Was Very, Very Small, written and illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay. Groundwood, Toronto. $18.95 ages 3 and up

“When Stella was very, very small, she thought she was a turtle. Then she thought she was a goldfish… But being a dog was even better.”

Can this be the eighth book about Stella, and her brother Sam? I can hardly believe it to be so! She remains gutsy, with her red hair, her love of life and her zany humor. Marie-Louise Gay has created the wonderful watercolor illustrations that make Stella so endearing and special. She seems every child in so many ways while remaining her own very spectacular self.

Sam knows his sister to be an authority on everything, understanding the world and its ways while loving it all. She joyfully lets Sam know what she thinks he should. In this book, she remembers what it was like to be very, very small, using her senses to discover that world. She recalls that she loved to imagine herself as a variety of animals...first a turtle, then a goldfish and finally, a dog. Although she couldn’t tie her shoes, and saw words as ants running off the page, she could see the whole world from the top of the couch, and could race her ducks in her huge bathtub. There is so much to appreciate if given the right circumstances in life. As she grows, she experiences things in a different way...now she feeds the goldfish, carries the dog and uses those tiny ants to make words that she can read to Sam.

It is such a delight to watch Stella grow in the brightly colored and detailed artwork, which will have anyone who shares her story looking for more and more. There is much to appreciate in this lovely new book.

You’re Mean, Lily Jean, written by Frieda Wishinsky and illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton. Scholastic, Toronto. 2009. $19.99 ages 5 and up

“The next day Lily Jean said, "Let's play king and queen. I'll be the king. Sandy will be the queen and Carly will be the dog."
"I don't want to be a dog," said Carly.
"Let's make Carly a lady-in-waiting," suggested Sandy.
"No. We need a dog," said Lily Jean.
"But I don't want to be a dog."
"Then you can't play," said Lily Jean."

When Lily moves in next door to Carly and Sandy, she introduces them to attitude. She has it in spades! She loves holding court over the two sisters and enjoys being the leader in all the make-believe she can conjure up. She tries hard to leave Carly out which makes the sisters determined to teach her a lesson. Lily Jean is one determined young woman, and it takes some work to be her friend. Many readers will see Lily in some of the children they know, especially those they do not particularly like. Without being obvious, Lily Jean gets a little of her own medicine and learns an important lesson. Her bossiness does seem to be an issue; but the girls have the means to keep it at bay, while spending happy hours together with their new neighbor.

Kady MacDonald Denton’s sweet and detailed watercolor illustrations give us young girls who are full of mischief, and yet sensitive and likable. It is so easy to get to know them them as they are expressive and full of life, which is vintage Denton and always such a delight to her many fans.

This lovely story teaches a lesson, but subtly and with compassion.

Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas, written by Jane O’Connor and illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser. Harper, 2009. $19.50 ages 4 and up

“When life gives you cracked eggs, make eggnog,” he says. “What does that mean,” I ask. “It means you improvise – that’s a fancy word for using whatever’s around to make something.”

I always wonder about a new book starring a favorite character. Will the story seem tired? Will the author have run out of things to say about her character? Is there any new occasion left to celebrate? I need not have been concerned! This honored author has created such a sweet and indomitable character in Fancy Nancy. No matter who comes along or what happens, Nancy is true to her nature, her belief in herself and her own personal view of the world. She loves fancy and nothing speaks 'splendiforous' the way that Christmas does. The sparkles, the tinsel, the treetop, the cookies to be decorated, the presents to be wrapped and any number of other holiday needs...what could be fancier? Even when things do not go exactly as planned, Nancy refuses to be deterred. Nothing can spoil the beauty and excitement of this special season. This would be the perfect gift for someone in your life...and if she likes this one, then you might want to check out the rest of Nancy's stories. The artwork is masterful in terms of fancy...there is so much for readers to see and appreciate. What fun you will have sharing it on Christmas Day!

Walking Backward, written by Catherine Austen. Orca Books, 2009. $9.95 ages 12 and up

"I know Mom would want us to be happy, not crying and walking backward and tinkering with the space-time continuum. If she saw us at this present moment - Dad in the basement denying reality, Sam in his room drawing psycho snakes, and me here griping - she'd just shake her head...Sammy can't start kindergarten walking backward and drawing killer snakes. He'd be the weird kid from day one... Dr. Tierney needs to get Sammy on a different path."

When his mother sees a snake in her car, panics and slams into a tree at a high rate of speed, Josh, his brother Sam and their father must deal with her resulting death and their incapacitating loss. Through their psychiatrist they are encouraged to try to journal their thoughts and feelings in personal attempts to help them adjust to the changes they are facing. Dad is in denial and Josh seems to be in charge of the household, as Dad can't cope with his parenting role. Sam has taken to walking backward so that he will always remember the face of those he meets in case they, too, should die. Dad is building a time machine in the basement so that the family might go back to the time before his wife died.

Josh's voice is so strong as he shares his anger, his confusion and his hope for a changed future. We come to realize that time slowly is making their days better. When Sam begins kindergarten he makes new friends, finds new interests and has the support of a teacher he loves. Josh makes the discovery that his former girlfriend is the one who put the snake in the car and that results in some closure for him. In the end we know that all is not perfect and won't be for a long time. But, we can see that the family is on the right course for themselves and the life they are now leading. This is not just a book about death, but about family, enduring love, community support and endless possibilities. I know you will like it.