Sister Water

by Nancy Willard

Book Overview

"Heavenly...Marvelous...Uplifting...A kind of miracle...A magical web of language that both seduces with poetic power and moves the heart." PEOPLE Jessie Woolman and her family are suddenly faced with unforseen tragedy. Her mind is beginning to wander, and Ellen, her newly widowed daugher is being pursued by a mercenary man, Harvey Mack. Enter Sam Theopolis. Hired to care for Jessie, he becomes both Harvey's rival and a healing presence for all. That...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0679407022
• ISBN13: 9780679407027
• Release Date: May 1993
• Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf
• Length: 255 Pages
• Weight: 1.45 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.9" x 8.7"

Customer Reviews

Magical realism in Michigan

Nancy Willard brings the often un-American magical realist writing style into the middle of the American Midwest with fascinating results. Fish swim in a river underneath the floor of an old museum and a group of native townspeople lurk on the edge of town, appearing and disappearing seemingly at will. The most magical aspect of Willard's writing, however, is the poetry of her words. Her prose is at once fluid and beautiful, but creates an atmosphere that is simultaneously haunting and comforting. If you are a fan of magical realism, this is a book that is definitely worth seeking.

Why Do Books Like This Go Out of Print?

The Kirkus Review describes the book well. I'll just say that I think it's excellent, having both read it and heard it read by the folks at Recorded Books. Nancy Willard is a much under-appreciated author with a style that's hard to put your finger on. The books feel so pure, and are so goodhearted, that they're wonderful for both adults and children.