Thursday, December 13, 2007

"A Swift Pure Cry" by Siobhan Dowd

It's 1984 in Ireland and 15-year-old Shell Talent's mother has died. Shell's dad turns to drinking, and Shell finds herself responsible for her younger siblings, with little means to do so. She develops an intimate relationship with her school friend, Declan. Declan moves to America, leaving Shell in an unfortunate predicament. Shell feels hopeless and alone, and turns to a new priest, Father Rose for emotional support. This book is powerful and the character development is superb. Recommended for older teens in high school.

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