Sometimes life can change in an instant
Martha Boyle and Olive Barstow could have been friends, but they weren't. Weeks after a tragic accident, all that is left are eerie connections between the two girls, former classmates who both kept the same secret without knowing it. Now, even while on vacation at the ocean, Martha can't stop thinking about Olive. Things only get more complicated when Martha begins to like Jimmy Manning, a neighbor boy she used to despise. What is going on? Can life for Martha be the same ever again?
Kevin Henkes is the author of Sun & Spoon, Bird Lake Moon, and the Newbery Honor Book Olive's Ocean. He also writes and illustrates picture books, and among his many titles are the national bestsellers My Garden, Old Bear, A Good Day, and Kitten's First Full Moon, for which he was awarded the Caldecott Medal. Mr. Henkes is also the creator of a series of books starring mouse characters, including Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse, Lilly's Big Day, Wemberly Worried, Chrysanthemum, and Owen, for which he was awarded a Caldecott Honor.
Kevin Henkes lives with his family in Madison, Wisconsin.
“Martha Boyle is one of the memorable 12–year–old girls of fiction, smart, confused, compassionate.”
-KLIATT (starred review)
“Henkes’s story is subtle and satisfyingly untidy. Grabs you right from the start.”
-Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)
“The ever versatile Kevin Henkes dazzles with this spare yet profoundly touching coming-of-age novel.”
-Family Fun Magazine
“With beautifully defined characters, events, and emotions that will tug at your heart, this novel is flawless.”
-Daily Item
“An eloquent journey into adolescence.”
-Florida Times-Union
“With his usual sensitivity and insight, Henkes explores key issues of adolescence.”
-Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Lyrically written.”
-Seattle Times
“Rich characterizations move this compelling novel to its satisfying and emotionally authentic conclusion.”
-School Library Journal (starred review)
“Few girls will fail to recognize themselves in Martha.”
-Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
