CANDLE ISLAND by Lauren Wolk

In the center of her latest novel, CANDLE ISLAND, Lauren Wolk explores secrets that are obscured from both readers and the locals of Candle Island. When 12-y-o Lucretia Sanderson moves to this remote island with her famous painter mother, she juggles bullying and friendlessness with the need for privacy and peace that one might assume relates to her father’s recent accidental death. This is not to be for three summer vacationing teens choose Lucy to be the victim of their bullying. But they miscalculate Lucy’s intelligence, sleuthing, refusal to back down and discovery of likeminded artistic teens with their own hidden secrets. Gradually truths are revealed as the twists and turns of plots, relationships and feelings continue throughout. This is a calming read despite the dramas where scents and sounds predominate and a young girl nurses an injured osprey chick, finds relief in riding, painting and the relationship with her mother. Emily Rankin’s reading puts listeners squarely in Lucy’s point of view. .You can find out more about this book and audio at the purchase link below.