Judy H. (hart2hart) reviewed on 10/8/2006 + 711 more book reviews

An intense story of family, fraility, and dysfunction, set in the coal-mining towns of western Pennsylvania. Harley Altmyer, the heartbreaking, hilarious, and lovable hero of Tawni O'Dell's riveting debut novel, has more on his shoulders than most guys his age. With his father dead and his mother in jail for the murder, Harley is trapped by his responsibilities, juggling two low-paying jobs and the care of his three younger sisters. His only escape is in the occasional six-pack---and in the beautiful young woman whose unexpected attentions provide Harley with pretty much the only pleasure in his crazy, chaotic life. But while Harley is struggling to keep it together, things start to fall apart, leading to a series of staggering surprises. Then only Harley's endearing humor his love for his sisters, and his bumbling heroics can redeem them all...

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details