September 10, 2012
Buckley’s disappointing sophomore effort (after The Things That Keep Us Here) tracks the repercussions of familial secrets and corporate negligence, and crumbles under the weight of too many plot lines, an unsurprising twist, and underdeveloped characters. After 17 years, prodigal Dana returns to smalltown Black Bear, Minn., in order to attend her sister’s funeral and care for Peyton, Dana’s ostensible niece. Julie succumbed to kidney disease, and Dana harbors suspicions that the chemical plant where Julie worked, and where her widower husband and Peyton continue to work, might be responsible for her death and the rise in kidney-related ailments among the townsfolk. In alternating chapters, Dana investigates the operations of the Gerkey factory, which refuses to reveal the ingredients being used to develop sunscreen for a military contract, while Peyton reflects on her mother’s death. Interwoven throughout are additional narrative threads addressing the dubious parentage of Peyton, the benefits and drawbacks of nanotechnology, corporate environmental responsibility, and Dana’s career in the demolition business. Ultimately, the story is spread far too thin to sustain interest. Agent: Pam Ahearn.
November 1, 2012
Dana Carlson thought she had left Black Bear behind. The sleepy little town in northern Minnesota couldn't compete with Chicago, with its rush of busy people and the skyscrapers that Dana demolishes for a living. Since Dana's falling out with her sister, Julie, Dana hasn't been in touch with anyone from Black Bear. When an unexpected phone call from Julie's daughter, Peyton, reveals that Julie is desperately ill with kidney disease, Dana drops everything to return to the tiny town. Although Dana doesn't arrive in time to save Julie, she builds a relationship with Peyton and takes on a crusade very dear to Julie's heart. A layered, nuanced story of family, forgiveness, and rediscovered memories, this is a warm and emotional novel. It is voiced by Dana and Peyton in alternating chapters, and Buckley excels at offering two very different viewpoints of the same situation. The thrilling story of Dana's crusade will remind readers of the best parts of the movie Erin Brockovich, and fans of Deborah Copaken Kogan and Fanny Blake are sure to enjoy this tender, tautly paced novel.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)