West of the Moon

Reviewed by: Patricia Temple - Long Island Community Library, Long Island, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 16, 2014

Review

This story of 13 year old Astri and her younger sister, Greta, takes the reader on their journey from an unloving Aunt's home in Norway toward their dream of reuniting with their father in America. The author integrates dark Norwegian Folktales and superstitions into Astri's thought and actions giving the story a magical tone. The action is not fast paced, but the suprises in the sisters epic journey keep the reader on the edge of their seats. The two main characters are unforgettable. Astri has a youthful optimism coupled with grit and determination all of which serve to get her through some harsh circumstances. Her younger sister, at first glance, seems meek and na�ve but in fact has steel core. This unusual, remarkable book gives us characters who lie, steal, even kill out of desperation, but are also self reflective and regretful. Themes of forgiveness, right and wrong, motivation, and justification. This one has loads of material for discussion.

Overall Book Score: excellent