This is written really well, but I didn't think the actual story--that of a mother and her 16-year-old daughter living in a small town--was "worthy" of such great writing. I can't say enough about the prose, here; it is startling and vivid. I hope the author's subsequent works yield amazing stories ... because her voice is astonishing.

Released on Wednesday, October 16, 2002 at Spice Merchant and Tea Room 108 W. Park in Elmhurst, Illinois USA.

I'm leaving this with another release. Hopefully I can leave it somewhere near the fireplace.

Yeah! I was able to get the two books left at the Tea Room. I've not heard the Oprah hype, so it just looks like an interesting book to me. Thanks!

At first, the book may seem drab—a small town story of a single mom and a young teenage daughter--the mother uptight; the daughter in puberty angst. But, the more I read this book, the more I enjoyed it. I found the development of the characters sad and charming and, ultimately, lovable. I also found the flashes to the lives and events of tangential characters to the story in the town, interesting and well-done. There were many layers to this book, and I don’t believe Isabelle, the mom, is precisely jealous of her daughter, but frightened by her path towards adulthood. It’s the classic story of a parent attempting to steer a child from the same mistakes she made as a child.

I gave this book to my mom at Thanksgiving. And, she's a bookcrossing member, so you'll be hearing more about this book's journey. Thanks for a good read!

The book was given to me some time ago by my daughter and I just found it again on my bookshelf and just began to read it last night. More comments to come later after completion.

DeeBee

I really enjoyed the way that this book was written. The prose is very good and makes rather ordinary life circumstances shine. I would enjoy reading more books by this author. The book is about a mother and daughter and the perilous journey of growing up and letting go.

DeeBee

Released on Sunday, February 15, 2004 at Gave to my sister in Seattle, Washington USA.

Gave this to my sister to enjoy - a very good read.
DeeBee