Saturday, April 11, 2009

THE MONSTERS OF TEMPLETON


TITLE: THE MONSTERS OF TEMPLETON
AUTHOR: LAUREN GROFF
Pages: 361
Date: 10/04/2009
Grade: 4
Library

I find it very hard to classify this story. It has the characteristics of a mystery, although there is (recent) murder. I also reminds me of a family saga. But in the end I think it's a story about growing up and finding your roots. I would call it a coming off age story if the main character hadn't been well into her twenties. Whatever it is though, it's a good and captivating read.
On the day Willie Cooper returns home to Templeton, broken-hearted and unsure about her future, the corpse of a huge monster floats to the surface of lake Glimmerglass.
Because Willie is depressed and lethargic her mother, Vivienne, sets her a task. Willie has always believed herself to be the result of her mother's wild youth in a commune, with her father being one of three possible men. Now she finds out that her father is in fact a local Templeton man, who is in some distant way related to her forefathers, who were the founders of Templeton.
Her quest to discover his identity leads her back in time through the history of both her family and her town. It brings her in contact with ghosts and uncovers some family scandals. It also brings Willie back to herself and gives her a new perspective on life.
A good, although not a fast, read.

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