Stay

So lyrically written that it is more like listening than reading. The story itself falls apart at the end, but was compelling up until the last 30 or so pages. The author accurately describes the dramas -- large and small -- of childhood and family life. Ms. Sullivan has a gift for language, making it accessible and immediate. I greatly look forward to her next effort. She has a gift.

A year after witnessing the death of her twin brother, Ham, Emily Stone has not uttered a word. Surrounded by her large, self-contained Catholic family, Emily stands alone and sometimes feels invisible because she is so quiet. She is waiting for Ham to return and looks for signs - a bluebird singing, a buffalo nickel. Her three older sisters and two brothers, try to draw her out and include her in their summertime activites. She wants to be part of the group, but is afraid to talk because she might say everything. Instead, she is a silent witness to their activities. Emily remembers the tragedy through flashbacks which sometimes traumatize her and she finds it more and more difficult to stay silent. When she finally speaks, Emily is transformed and brings change to her family.Mary Sullivan's Stay is rich in detail about life in a large, Catholic family - including the secret life the children are living when the parents are otherwise occupied. Although the story is about Emily and her family, all of whom are dealing with an enormous tragedy, there are many humorous moments. This is a short book which leaves the reader wishing for more as she turns the last page over and over.

What a great find. This novel is eloquently written and makes great use of poppycock. I would have given it a six star rating if it included more detail about Chucky cheating at stick ball, and Mark's crush on Buddy Love. Great work Ms. Sullivan.

I really enjoyed this novel - did not want to put it down. I loved the writing style of Ms. Sullivan such as her use of flashbacks interwoven with the current time and her ability to deeply convey the personality of all characters. I look forward to her second novel.