Song of the sales, a novel

Kliatt, July, 2003 by Sarah Applegate

YORKE, Christy. Song of the sales, a novel. Berkley. 308p. c2003. 0-425-18824-8. $14.00.

A

This story of love. loss and magic is set in a small fishing town in Northern California. Reminiscent of Ahab's Wife, with its focus on the sea and its power, the book is a challenging read suited for older high school students and adults. It is the story of Kate, a woman who lost a son and seeks connection by taking in foster children; Ben, a fisherman who lost his wife and is trying to remain connected to his children; Wayne, the foster son Kate is trying to save; and an interesting mix of additional characters ranging from the rebellious daughter who ends up living in an abandoned shack on the ocean to Mary, the "witch" who holds off and portends disaster with a weeping tree and simple spells.

Ben, the father of two girls, is trying to keep his family together through difficult times. He continues to go and fish, despite the unhappiness of his daughters and despite the warnings of the local tree, weeping sap, warning sailors to stay off the seas. Amidst this conflict, there are stories of love and redemption, of starting over fresh and forgiving oneself and others. While the book took me a long time to get into, it is a haunting read that lingers. There are many elements that will capture the interest of those who are diligent readers. Sarah Applegate, Libn., River Ridge H.S., Lacey, WA