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A lovely story that's sweet without being overly saccharine and exciting in a fun, adventurous kind of way. I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially since it felt real and didn't push an agenda. That being said, I hate to critique it but my notes are minor. It's become common to allow "filler" words/ phrases, which can be expected from a first draft but unnecessarily lengthen an otherwise engaging book. Redundancy is always tedious but in this case, seems to dissipate as the story approaches its climax. Perhaps while writing the author was propelled by the energy of the story? Regardless, it reflects poorly on the author, despite the editor ultimately being to blame. My only other criticism is the lack of difference in voice. The main narrators-- old and young-- were indistinguishable, save for labeling by the author and their words being printed in differing fonts. These didn't necessarily detract from the story, i.e. I wasn't confused about who was talking but it was another by-product of permissive editing. Just a tad more attention to building the characters via dialogue would've eliminated most of the filler. #SpringPicks
The story of twelve year old Abilene Tucker is one I'll never forget. I love the way the author tells her story, using links from the past to help understand the present. Miss Sadie, a diviner, reveals to Abilene a story she needs to hear, and Miss Sadie and the rest of the town of Manifest need to tell. The residents of Manifest need to remember their past and see how it might affect their future. This is a perfect book for ages 12+. I loved it, and re-read it twice in the two months after I received the book. #SummerReading