This is one of the best YA novels I have read in a long while. The young characters are thoroughly believable--sweet yet ornery and not always inclined to make the wisest choices. It has an intact family with parents who like and enjoy their children, and vice versa, plus siblings who admire and care for each other instead of being at each others throats. All without it being cloying, sappy or fake. The story contained adventure, danger and mystery, with serious underlying themes such as alcoholism and abandonment. I am pleased to learn this is part of a series of books revolving around a core group of kids of different backgrounds. I will definitely seek out the other books by this author. Very recommended reading!
**** Four stars!
**** Four stars!
