1987. There’s only one person who has ever truly understood fourteen-year-old June Elbus, and that’s her uncle, the renowned painter Finn Weiss. Shy at school and distant from her older sister, June can only be herself in Finn’s company; he is her godfather, confidant, and best friend. So when he dies, far too young, of a mysterious illness her mother can barely speak about, June’s world is turned upside down. But Finn’s death brings a surprise acquaintance into June’s life—someone who will help her to heal, and to question what she thinks she knows about Finn, her family, and even her own heart.At Finn’s funeral, June notices a strange man lingering just beyond the crowd. A few days later, she receives a package in the mail. Inside is a beautiful teapot she recognizes from Finn’s apartment, and a note from Toby, the stranger, asking for an opportunity to meet. As the two begin to spend time together, June realizes she’s not the only one who misses Finn, and if she can bring herself to trust this unexpected friend, he just might be the one she needs the most.
Hey! Here's my review.
A beautifully heartbreaking story. I loved all of the quirky characters. I could understand their motivations of love and jealously.
The book is set in 1987, when AIDS was still misunderstood and people were worried they could catch it from touching a newspaper. It is a coming of age story for fourteen year old June, who loses her beloved uncle from the disease then develops a friendship with his boyfriend. Some people have found it a depressing story but I could see the streaks of golden love shining through. I laughed, I cried, I couldn't put it down.
The book is set in 1987, when AIDS was still misunderstood and people were worried they could catch it from touching a newspaper. It is a coming of age story for fourteen year old June, who loses her beloved uncle from the disease then develops a friendship with his boyfriend. Some people have found it a depressing story but I could see the streaks of golden love shining through. I laughed, I cried, I couldn't put it down.
★★★★★
- Where: Borrowbox
- Format: ebook
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I absolutely loved this book, Renee. I laughed and cried, and sometimes laughed and cried at the same time. It's a winner. I was older than June in 1987, but not by much. Two years after high school graduation, and the AIDS related deaths from classmates were just starting. What a sad time.
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I was younger than June in 1987. I remember thre early years of AIDS and seeing a brochre explaining that you can't catch it from the toilet seat.
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