Parting is not sweet sorrow

Thursday November 29, 2012

Before We Go -- Any Bright, (Red Deer Press, Markham, ON; 2012; ISBN 978-0-88995-471-7); 231 pages; $12.95)

To know a departure is coming hurts.

Emily was given to her grandparents when she was a year old. Oh, she has a mom, but her mom is never around, she never sees her and when mom says she’ll be there she doesn’t keep her word.

Emily’s grandfather passed a few years ago and now gram is in the hospital and she won’t be returning home.

Emily’s commitment to her gram means she loses contact with her friends; loneliness stalks her through silent nights and take-out meals in front of a blaring TV.

Alex has parents who want the best for him but they aren’t the ones living in his body, a body invaded by leukemia. His sister, Lucy, only lets her feelings reach to below her heart; if they reach her heart the squeezing is so intense she can’t breathe.

It’s New Years Eve when these young people meet in the hospital and spend the evening together, getting to know their deepest secrets.

An excellent youth read filled with surprise, pain, and reality.

Before We Go -- Any Bright, (Red Deer Press, Markham, ON; 2012; ISBN 978-0-88995-471-7); 231 pages; $12.95)