ANGELS IN THE SAND

A young girl must say goodbye to her ailing beloved grandmother in Keating’s middle-grade novel.

It’s only been three years since Jess Alexander lost her father. Now, the 10-year-old and her mother learn that her maternal grandmother has terminal cancer. The two make their annual trip up North from Florida to Maine to visit Grandma for Christmas. This year, Jess plans to make the most of it, compiling a “must-do list” complete with Christmas songs, a gingerbread house, and never-ending snow angels. All the while, she hears of people receiving apparent signs that their lost loved ones are watching over them—so why hasn’t there been a sign from her late dad, and will Grandma watch over Jess after she’s gone? Although she treasures the chance to say goodbye to Grandma, it doesn’t make losing her any easier. Keating’s short tale isn’t as melancholic as it may sound; Grandma displays a buoyancy that doesn’t falter, even when her condition worsens (“Tomorrow has its own worries, and we are not going to focus on them. We are going to focus on living, not dying”). There are plenty of upbeat moments, from the news of unexpected new life to the possibility of Jess’ mom dating again (with Grandma and Jess’ encouragement). The author, whose unadorned but sharp prose deftly shapes the 10-year-old’s introspective narration, showcases healthy ways to grieve: Jess, her mom, and Grandma not only accept that this Christmas will be their last together but also freely discuss what life will be like after Grandma dies. Jess fully embraces hope and ponders how she, like her mother and grandmother, can protect the family she may one day have; her relationship with Sadie Bug, the chocolate lab she adores, is a great start.

A keen, affecting portrayal of the cycle of life.