Annette S. (annette-s) reviewed on 4/22/2013 + 49 more book reviews

The Giants House by Elizabeth McCracken is about a librarian who forms a friendship with an overly tall boy. She calls it love, and it is a love story. But a different kind of love. Its not the sordid sort that makes you cringe. Its not about an older teacher-type woman taking advantage of a younger student. This is a touching tale about Peggy Cort and James Sweatt. Peggy is a single woman others would call a spinster. But that word conjures up images of a bitter, lonely woman, which she definitely is not. Peggy doesnt require companionship with many friends or even a husband to make her life feel full. Instead, she opens her heart to this unusually tall boy. James first came to her library when he was a 62 eleven-year-old; she was twenty five; it was 1950. Slowly she helps him not only in the world of books, but in general. She becomes a caring friend, and he becomes a precious gift to her. Miss Cort narrates the story looking back on her life, and it McCrackles with a blunt, honest, and dryly humorous tone. Her voice is luring. It flows easily and lightly. I could listen to her all day long. I think this book is one of those treasures that will stay with me a long time. Peggy and James are unforgettable. This book was a nice, giant surprise and shot right up there on my list of favorites. Read other reviews at http://readinginthegarden.blogspot.com

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