Books with author Judith Clarke

From a multi-award-winning author comes a magnificent and deeply moving story about two girls, a life-long friendship, and the heart’s search for the real true thingThe path of Ruth's life was shaped in one fateful moment when, as a baby, she miraculously survived the car accident that killed her mother. Her grandmother raised her with the fierce conviction that Ruth be free to meet the world on her own terms, and not be stuck in the small life of their country town. This wise, compassionate, beautifully written book weaves together the stories of Ruth, her grandmother Margaret May, Ruth's lifelong friend Fee, and Ruth's troubled foster child Dancey Tremaine. From Ruth's coming of age in a country town and the defining influence of her grandmother, to the consequences of Fee's youthful marriage and motherhood, to a troubled contemporary child looking for love, this book enables us to appreciate the beauty of life and connection with others.

Sometimes Lily wishes she weren't so sensible. If she were less reliable, then perhaps she'd have more fun. As it is, her hardworking but flaky mom and her dreamy older brother count on her to run the house. She wishes things could be different, but how can she change her responsible ways? Perhaps, she thinks, she should fall in love! Meanwhile, her scheming grandmother is planning a family party and, as is typical, Lily worries. Her fears are not entirely unfounded. Her grandfather has recently disowned her brother, and her brother has a new girlfriend who might not fit in. Her mother will probably bring the loony Mrs. Nightingale from the adult day care center where she works. And these are only the predictable complications. Lily is beginning to understand how easily unimaginable things can happen, too. Back to the question of love, what is this new feeling Lily experiences when Daniel Steadman is near? Could it be the cure?

(Al is nearly sixteen - a very dangerous age according to Mrs Capsella and the other mothers. Known to Al and his friends as the Watchdogs, they stalk the suburbs, ever alert to the perils of parties and other suspect activities. It's a very trying situation for Al, whose life is already complicated by the unwelcome attentions of Sophie Disher, and a father whose interest in homework borders on the unhealthy. What's a guy to do??? Wacky sequel to the popular Heroic Life of Al Capsella)