THE BOOK FAIR

Review:

Seventeen years after leaving home in Bedford, MA, and working many jobs in many places, Justine leads a contented life in Seattle, WA, with Mack, her loyal, black and silver sheltie, whom she taught to dance.

At forty-two years old, Justine has not seen her family for years, when out of the blue, Justine receives a sudden call from her step-mother, informing her that her father is gravely ill, and that she must return.

Justine hitches a ride with Artie, a long haul trucker, who later leaves her in a rest stop, and dumps Mack on the highway.  Though Justine searches for Mack, he is nowhere to be found. 

Mack waits for hours on the side of the road.  Alice, who visits the cemetery, spots the lonely dog and decides to take him home.

Justine takes a bus to the weigh station in Boston, where she believes Artie should be.  She does not find Artie, but meets Troy, who is sympathetic to her and promises to help.

 

Sensitive, sweet descriptions and portrayal of Mack; well formed characters.  The story delves into both Justine and Alice’s stories, their difficulties, their family relationships, and the joy Mack brings to both their lives.