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Back to topThe Properties of Water (Hardcover)
This book is non-returnable.
Description
When Lace's older sister, Marni, falls victim to a summer swimming accident, it paralyzes Lace in time. For Lace, there is only a before--can there be an after? But as the summer surges on, she learns that she must return to the water, the very thing that tore her family apart. This beautifully crafted novel explores the boundaries of family and friendship, the greatest griefs that knock us down, and the smallest kindnesses that guide us to safe harbors.
About the Author
Hannah Roberts McKinnon grew up in Fairfield County, Connecticut, writing about and drawing animals. The daughter of an English teacher, she spent her early childhood nights falling asleep to the click-clack of her father’s typewriter and adopted his love of words and literature. She attended her first young author’s conference in Mrs. Myers’ third-grade class with her debut story “Rodents on the Range,” a hamster Western, and has not been the same since.
Hannah attended Connecticut College, graduating with a B.A. in English and elementary education. She later traveled to Australia, and earned her M.A. and sixth-year degree in education from Flinders University of South Australia.
After sharing her love of children’s literature with her elementary school students for ten years, Hannah sat down to write her first novel, sneaking writing time during her daughter Grace’s naps. Her second novel, The Properties of Water, is slated to come out in 2010. Hannah is working diligently on her next book, once again stealing minutes to write, this time during the naps of her daughter Finley. She lives in Connecticut with her family and two fine dogs.
Praise For…
“…McKinnon (Franny Parker) has created a cast of believably imperfect characters, and Lace's emotions ring true, especially when she finally travels to Portland to see Marni.” —Publishers Weekly
“…Lacey is a consistently sympathetic character throughout. Readers will doubtless take to her like ducks to water.” —Booklist
“It's a heartfelt tale about individual identity, sisterly closeness, and working through fear that even the siblingless will find touching.” —BCCB
“Vibrant, descriptive prose and characters that are strong, original, and often comic save an emotional topic from becoming mawkish. Lace's grief feels real, and the account of her family's strength inspires. The story overall is surprisingly uplifting, and worth recommending to anyone interested in family dynamics and complex emotions.” —School Library Journal