LARKIN ON THE SHORE

A quiet, healing journey on the beautiful shores of Nova Scotia.

Sixteen-year-old Larkin Day moves from Toronto to the small town of Tuttle Harbour, Nova Scotia, to spend the summer with her grandmother Anne (or Granne). After a stressful and traumatic school year, Larkin focuses on spending time outside and sorting book donations for Granne’s as-yet-unopened coffee shop. A fire that damages the shop throws the small town into disarray, with rumors of a potential culprit casting a shadow over relationships. These whispers of blame, along with the local teens and their own social drama, remind Larkin of her unpleasant past; but quiet evenings sitting on the shore introduce her to the friendly and memorable Will. The healing beauty of nature is also juxtaposed against Larkin’s urge to disappear into the waters. Mills (Skating Over Thin Ice, 2018, etc.) pulls readers into Larkin’s mind, skillfully unveiling family mysteries and glimpses of memory. Themes of coping techniques and recovery from trauma are woven seamlessly through the narration. Strong emphases on Larkin’s bonds with Granne and her father, hometown history, and a slow-burning love story round out her emotional journey. The difficulties Larkin encounters are gripping, and readers will feel a connection to her. All major characters are cued as white.

Readers will be pulled along by the strong voice in this emotional story.