Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Julie M. Prince

Henry Smith comes from one of the finest family lines in all of New England. His roots are as strong as his cliff-side home. Generations strong and sturdy, built to last. So Henry is completely taken by surprise when his big, strong brother is found broken on the side of the road.

Henry knows his family has been changed forever. What hes not sure of is exactly what the change will mean for him.

This literary work is the stuff English teachers and literature majors dream of. Its chock full of symbolism and important word placement, beautiful language and metaphors. Schmidts carefully structured Blythbury-by-the-Sea setting takes on a role of its own in the story, the weather mirroring the character struggles in many instances. The great Black Dog adds even more richness to an already amazing cast of characters.

Readers who enjoyed John Greens AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES will appreciate this literal journey to self-discovery, complete with a witty and sarcastic side kick.

The stoic Henry Smith has much on his mind and even more brewing in his heart as he learns what it means to live with Trouble.

This book is an intense read with complex characters, but leavened with humor. Im calling it a front-runner for the prestigious Printz award.