‘Jewelweed’ by David Rhodes

This sequel to Driftless, carried on seamlessly with many of the same characters in Words, Wisconsin. I loved the kids in this instalment. They get themselves into some very unique adventures. I worried about Blake who is out of prison but risks re-entry because all of the odds are against him, and very few people are willing to help. There is a budding secret romance and a pastor with a crisis of faith. There is a family not coping with the constant care of two seniors and a very ill child, who enlist the help of a spunky young woman with burdens of her own. The writing is filled with empathy and wonder. As with Driftless, this is not a quick read but the time spent is well worth it.