What an enjoyable book! At the risk of sounding trite, one could almost think of the main story as "The Giving Tree" for grown-ups - far more subtle, very insightful and thought-provoking, and it packs many an emotional punch. I won't spoil "Meek" by describing it, other than saying that if this short story doesn't pull at your heartstrings, you may not be human....This book, Like all of Bracken's Brakeshire books, is highly recommended!