After by Kristin Hamel

Lacey wonders “what if” as she and her brothers and mother struggle to deal with her father’s tragic death in a car accident.  As she deals with her grief, she decides to start a support group at school for other classmates who have a parent who has died.  Along the way, she becomes involved with a new student–Sam Stone, whose father has “died.”  (Sam’s father is in a coma and ultimately wakes up even thought the doctors gave up on him)  Harmel depicts the guilt, grief, loneliness and depression that the characters face.  While the story is sometimes sad, it is realistic and brings forth closure and hope to the reader.  YA—Recommend.  Tee Cotter, Port Chester

Advertisements