MISSING MAY by Cynthia Rylant
Summer grew up with Uncle Ob and Aunt May, in the first home where she felt she truly belonged. But May’s death leaves a gaping hole in her life and Ob’s, and they both find themselves spending all of their time just missing her. With the help of their strange neighbor, Cletus, Summer and Ob begin searching for May’s spirit and for the peace to continue living their own lives.
I often hear complaints from people who do not like Newbery Award winning books because they are always about death and dealing with grief. Missing May certainly fits that profile. But this novel deserved its Newbery for more than just its weighty subject matter. Missing May is very well-written, with wonderful characters. Rylant takes you through a realistic heart-warming journey from grief to hope and renewed joy in life. I highly recommend this book!
If you liked Missing May, you may like Chasing Redbird by Sharon Creech.
Susan the Librarian 