THE BOOK FAIR

Review::

The novel takes place during the 1950’s and centers on Penney Powel, a pre-adolescent, who resides with her family. Penney’s father, Robert, driven by success, views his life through material accomplishments. Dotty, Penney’s mother, lives in the breadth and shadow of Robert.  Dutiful and respectful, she loves her two daughters, but her husband, as head of the family, comes first.

Penney idolizes her older sister, Nancy, who easily disregards the boundaries set for her.

Dotty, somewhat awkward and introverted, always worried about her looks and weight, has trouble fitting in to the new, upscale neighborhood.  Diminished as the little woman, by Robert, who disregards her capable advice, Dotty expands her horizons and searches for fulfillment elsewhere.

Angry at what she perceives to be a betrayal by her mother, Penney makes a fateful decision.  Years later, Penney learns things about her mother that she never knew.

 

“The Blue Hour”, beautifully written, portrays sensitive, genuine characters caught in the whirlwind of their own dynamics.  "The Blue Hour", refers to the time when lovers meet.