CANDLE ISLAND

CANDLE ISLAND by Lauren Wolk

This is a perfect read to wrap the summer up with whether as a read aloud or as a quiet read for your middle grader!

Is it really any surprise that I put Lauren Wolk's name in the same sentence as TOP PICKS? If you are familiar with Echo Mountain, Wolf Hollow, My Own Lighting, etc, then you know what I am talking about. Lauren Wolk has a very realistic and earthy way about her writing. You can feel the setting, the natural surroundings, and you can feel the deep conflicts that are often stirring in the stories. They are relatable. Candle Island is no different.

Lucretia and her mother have settled on Candle Island, Maine, a small island with a tiny population of residents that live their year round and an influx of problematic, wealthy, summer vacationers. Attempting to try and escape the memories and continuing nightmares from the death of Lucretia 's father from a car crash, they find themselves strung between the two groups since they are not vacationers but not proven enough to be considered residents. Roots on Candle Island run deep and long. It doesn't help that they've got a secret that they want to keep hidden. Lucretia's mother is a famous artist that doesn't want to be in the spotlight. Her work is highly sought after and is what's keeping the bills paid. By moving to Candle Island, they're hoping to keep a low profile. Thanks to a series of crimes, that may be more difficult than they planned.

Candle Island is a wonderful story that highlights healing, the need for everyone to have a quiet space, and the art of true friendship. Beautifully written and highly recommended!