Having recently discovered Mr. Hassler, I am happily making my way through all his works. This book has been my least favorite of the four I have read, but it is very enjoyable and well-written. I just didn't warm to some of the characters as much as in Mr. Hassler's other novels. But all the characters are well-drawn, the story never gets boring, and the ending was certainly a suprise. I like the way he writes and think he deserves to be much more widely known.

I own many books by John Hassler, and cherish them all. This is my favorite (except The Love Hunter).

The story is dark: about that child whom we've all met. Unruly, boistrous, unwanted, but terribly lovable. It is about the goodhearted family who takes in that child, and the disasters that occur thereafter. It is a tale of hope, love, redemption. It is a tale that makes one examine, oh so gently, ones responsibility to their bethren.

Like all of Mr Hasslers work, this is not a book which demands, threatens, accuses, or grabs you by the neck and throttles you. It is gentle and subtle and sweet. And in it's darkest moments, warm rays of light shine and you are left hopeful, albeit thoughtful. Read them all. Then read them again.

I seldom keep any of the many books I read, but this one is an exception. I first read this book at least 15 years ago and I still pull it out once in a while to reread. It is one of those stories that remain timeless in capturing small town America and the characters that make these small towns interesting. The story is told through the eyes of 12 year old Brendan, moving to a new town when his mom and dad took over a defunct grocery store. As Brendan and his family struggle to adjust, they meet people along the way that will change their lives. The writing is rich and draws you in to each character. I'm very surprised this hasn't been made into a movie, done right it would be a great one.