A Sudden Light by Garth Stein is a ghost story about family relationships. I absolutely loved the main character Trevor. He had lines that made me laugh out loud several times. He is a 14 year old boy who is seeking the truth and trying to save his parent’s marriage.
It’s Seattle, 1990 and Trevor finds himself with his father, on their way to the house his father grew up in. His father’s family has been a mystery. He doesn’t know his grandfather or his aunt and even his father is distant. When they arrive at the house, Trevor finds out that the house is actually an estate witch becomes a character in the story. The way the house is described is excellent and it’s even mentioned that the house is breathing. It really sets the tone for a ghost story.
Trevor’s Aunt Serena is seductive, manipulative, obsessive and mysterious. His grandfather has dementia and he believes that his dead wife dances for him at night. This brings him comfort, but is dismissed by Serena as the rain. One night, Trevor hears the footsteps too and as he explores the house, he starts learning about his family history and the secrets they have been keeping. I thought this book flowed really well and it confirmed for me that I enjoy Garth Stein’s writing.
Bookworm Rating: 🐛🐛🐛🐛
Comments