A review by marylannireads
Candle Island by Lauren Wolk

emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

 

In the aftermath of her father’s unexpected passing, Lucretia Sanderson and her mother have moved their lives to the small community of Candle Island in order to find some comfort and clarity. Unbeknownst to them, the house into which they have moved has a deep and complicated history, and Lucretia and her mother are unwittingly trampling on the feelings of some long-time island residents. With time, patience, and empathy, however, Lucretia discovers ways to fit in with the other youth on the island, and their shared interactions and adventures help to heal the wounds that only time can mend. This lovely middle grade novel is a beautiful depiction of one girl’s journey through grief. Told from Lucretia’s perspective in the first person, the narrative offers readers the opportunity to observe Lucretia’s thoughts and feelings in a memorable and tangible way. Lucretia herself is filled with empathy and kindness, letting negative feelings flow off of her as she works to mend the broken things in her vicinity. Short chapters help to make this book accessible to a wide range of readers, and the narrative itself is filled with beautiful imagery and descriptions that lend the book a soothing quality. Though slow moving at times, this novel is a heartfelt story that supports readers through transitions of many kinds. It is a positive addition to library collections for confident middle grade readers.