Jean Ferris Reviews

Added June 12, 2007

Much Ado About Grubstake

Author: Jean Ferris
Publisher: Harcourt, Inc.
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date:
Genre: Young Adult: Mainstream
Format: Hardcover
Price: $17.00
ISBN-10: 0-15-205706-4
ISBN-13: 9780152057060
Author Email/Website: www.jeanferris.com/
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

When a reader visits the oddly endearing town of Grubstake, the population soars to a whopping 63! This delightful novel is filled with a special charm, lovable characters and a mother lode of fun.

Grubstake is gasping its last breath as a mining town. Yet, although the mines appear worthless, a shrewd city slicker shows up and offers to buy everyone out. Most of the inhabitants jump at this unexpected and lucrative deal, but sixteen-year-old Arley Pickett isn't fooled. She decides to get to the bottom of this, even though it involves facing her biggest fear.

Every character in this well written novel is a gem. Arley runs the town's boardinghouse and her intelligence and youthful confidence carry the story along. The odd assortment of boarders and town inhabitants creates a special atmosphere of family and friendship. Readers will feel the hopelessness of the miners as their daily digging turns up nothing valuable. When they're asked to sell their stake for a tidy sum, the future of the entire community is threatened. Thankfully, Arley senses a setup and vows to uncover the truth. As she attempts this, she hits pay dirt in ways she never imagined.

Interesting facts about mining and rocks are smoothly incorporated into the story. Humor and a touch of goofiness tickle the pages, while the mystery of the mines' true value engages the intellect. Arley's boldness and determination to help her friends results in a story that is filled with warmth, wit and wisdom.

Grubstake is a great place to visit!

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