Wendy H. (donkeycheese) - , reviewed on 7/7/2013 + 1255 more book reviews

Nellie Peck is the middle child, having an older sister, Ruth, and a younger brother, Henry. Her mom is a hairdresser and her dad owns a hardware store. His dream though is to finish his novel that he has been writing for years about the history of their town. While he is dreaming, it's getting harder and harder for them to make ends meet. So, they rent out a three room apartment that is on the back of their house.

Nellie ends up spending much of her summer watching out for her brother Henry while her parents struggle to survive. In doing so, she meets a new tenant, a pole dancer, Dolly. She's beautiful and elusive. There's a new boy in town, Bucky, who Nellie and Henry befriend, but Bucky could get them into real trouble if they aren't careful. Then there is Max, the man staying in the loft of the Pecks' grandfather, Charlie's, junkyard. When one of the new people that Nellie has met over the summer winds up dead, she knows who did it. The problem is that no one believes her.

Light From A Distant Star is a compelling tale of family, secrets, murder and growing up. Mary McGarry Morris has a knack for storytelling and you will find yourself entranced with the Peck family and those whose lives intercept them. From start to finish, the story unfolds at a steady pace, leaving behind memorable characters and a lasting impression. I loved it!

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