Keeping Safe the Stars by Sheila O'Conner - ADVISABLE

O’Conner, Sheila Keeping Safe the Stars, 394 pgs. Putnam’s, 2012.  $16.99.  Language: G; Mature Content: G;  Violence: PG.  

13-year-old Pride is left alone with her younger sister and brother when their grandfather, Old Finn,  takes himself into town to the hospital because of a fever.  When he is admitted to the hospital and the children realize they are fending for themselves (and taking care of the elderly Miss Addie who lives on the property) they decide to go into business and offer pony rides and popcorn to strangers.  In order to keep her family safe, Pride starts telling people lies and soon everything is out of hand. 

Historically placed the summer Nixon resigned there’s plenty of background for kids not familiar with the time period.  A sweet book (reminded me of Where the Lilies Bloom) about secrets, lies and family.   It’s not just another “orphans on their own” novel.  MS ADVISABLE Lisa Librarian