Book Review – Walk Me Home
by Catherine Ryan Hyde (Doubleday) ISBN 9780857520593
From the author of the novel which became an Oscar-winning film, Pay It Forward, comes a poignant tale of two sisters with different world views. They make the best of a tragic situation by being courageous, feisty and stubborn.
Carly and her twelve-year-old sister, Jen, are all alone. They only have each other to rely on as they go in search of a father-figure who could be their last hope. Jen does not want to find him because of an incident that happened that Carly refuses to believe.
We get inside Carly’s sixteen-year-old head and travel with her as she grapples with her insecurities, fears, beliefs and goals. We feel her heartbreak and loneliness. But ultimately we also experience the joy of seeing her grow into a young adult with great potential.
The landscapes and atmosphere of New Mexico, Arizona, Tulare, Trinidad, and California are described in such precise detail that it seems like we are right there with the characters.
The lessons they learn along their journey help them to explore the reasons and consequences for their sudden urgent trip. The occurrences and interactions with strangers along the way finally lead them to the beginning of their new life.
The characters have immense depth and the plot unfolds like a rose opening. This is the author’s gift. Highly recommended.
Amanda Blankfield-Koseff
4.5/5