If Wishes Were Horses

The touching prolog tells of the "ghost pains" suffered by a grandfather who lost a limb in the Civil War. Lily can't understand how he can claim to feel pain in his missing leg until she undergoes a loss of her own. Her older sister dies, but readers won't know that's going to happen until the end. The sibling rivalry described is right on target. This is a wonderful story for girls who enjoy sentimental, fast-paced fiction. Don't be turned off by the critics...sure the book tinges on melodramatic, but fourth, fifth and sixth grade girls (and this librarian) love the book! It will make you appreciate family and offers lots of opportunities for discussion.