Like Seabirds Flying Home

When Shelley and her parents move to Sentinel Head, she believes she will finally find some kind of happiness. Her parents are getting along with each other, her restless, bitter mother seems content and Shelley is falling in love with Arlan. A future without pain and resentment appears possible for the first time. But Shelley's dreams are constantly interrupted by worries over her father's terminal illness, her mother's selfishness and Arlan's impending departure for the Coast Guard. Shelley must find the strength to forge her own future, even if it means hurting her mother and failing to uphold a promise. Flowing, colorful prose creates a marvelous mood and setting in this novel. The author intrigues readers with the complexity of Shelley's character and conflicts; her experiences are rich with emotion and detail. Ages 12-up. (Oct.)