Speaking to Miranda

Australian Ruby Summerton has been constantly haunted by the death of her mother, 17 years earlier, and by Miranda, a voice in her head that is somehow connected to her past. With high school behind her and the only prospect before her to accompany her stepfather, Rob, on construction site visits, Ruby faces an uncertain future. Frustrated by Rob's steadfast refusal to discuss her mother, Ruby begins a quest for the truth that leads her to New Zealand, where past and present finally meet. This intriguing novel moves along slowly as Ruby puzzles through the bits and pieces of her unorthodox upbringing. Although clues about her past are somewhat conveniently presented, this does not detract from Macdonald's narrative--a solidly crafted story that is more intent upon exploring the nature of secrets than on solving a mystery. Ruby is a prickly character and, while readers will be gratified that she finds some answers, the resolution does not end the strangeness of a life lived in half-truths. Ages 12-up. (Oct.)