See What I See

In a modern drama of new beginnings and sad endings, National Book Award–winner Whelan (Homeless Bird) effectively contrasts the lives of two artists, the accomplished Dalton Quinn, who appears to care more about his work than people, and his less worldly, more compassionate daughter, Kate. Kate has not communicated with her father since he left the family more than a decade ago, but he's the only person she knows in Detroit, where she has won a scholarship to art school. Despite her mother's misgivings, Kate arrives on his doorstep, hoping her father will take her in. It doesn't come as a surprise that he is a reluctant host, but it is a shock for Kate to learn that her father is dying. After giving up her scholarship to take care of him full-time, Kate embarks on a journey to discover the man who abandoned her, while wondering if her painting will ever measure up to his. Beautifully expressing adolescent uncertainties and yearnings, this intimate novel will draw readers who, like Kate, have big hearts and big dreams. Ages 12–up. (Jan.)