Saturday, July 13, 2013

Tell the Wolves I'm Home

My goal is to read 100 books by the end of 2013.  I just finished book 46.

Tell the Wolves I'm Home by Carol Rifka Brunt

Summary (via Goodreads):
1987.  There's only one person who has ever truly understood fourteen-year-old June Elbus, and that's her uncle, the renowned painter Finn Weiss.  Shy at school and distant from her older sister, June can only be herself in Finn's company; he is her godfather, confidant, and best friend.  So when he dies, far too young, of a mysterious illness her mother can barely speak about, June's world is turned upside down.  But Finn's death brings a surprise acquaintance into June's life - someone who will help her heal, and to question what she thinks she knows about Finn, her family, and even her own heart.
At Finn's funeral, June notices a strange man lingering just beyond the crowd.  A few days later, she receives a package in the mail.  Inside is a beautiful teapot she recognizes from Finn's apartment, and a note from Toby, the stranger, asking for an opportunity to meet.  As the two begin to spend time together, June realizes she's not the only one who misses Finn, and if she can bring herself to trust this unexpected friend, he just might be the one she needs the most.

A Note About My Reviews:
While I have many, many opinions about what I read, I keep what I write brief and vague for a few reasons.  First, I'm much more comfortable talking than writing.  Second, I'm terrified of spoiling/altering someone's experience and only have deep conversations about the book if I know the person has already read it, or if I know they have no intention of reading it and I just have to vent about something.  

My Opinion:
Absolutely stunning and incredibly well-written.  Although at the beginning I made the note "does the end justify the means?" (while I loved June as the protagonist, her age added a level of "squick" to some situations), all was quickly forgotten/forgiven as her journey continued.  You must experience this book for yourself.    
Read this.  Read this.  Oh, and one more thing...Read this.

Quote from the Book:
"Don't you know?  That's the secret.  If you always make sure you're exactly the person you hoped to be, if you always make sure you know only the very best people, then you won't care if you die tomorrow."







2 comments:

  1. Great review! This is one of my favorite reads for 2012. June was fabulous, and Toby and Finn just about broke my heart.

    Marlene Detierro (Renton's River Adventures, Inc.)

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    1. Thank you so much for the comment...I agree this was a superb book!

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