Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Ann Burns is one of my favorite novels. It begins in July of 1906, three weeks after the main character’s grandmother has died. Grandpa has an announcement: he is engaged to another woman. The main character, Will Tweedy, is fourteen at the time, loves his grandfather, misses his grandmother, but doesn’t want to spend his summer in mourning; he wants to go fishing. All of this makes for an entertaining family drama that is hard to put down. The town, the characters, the situations that Burns has created are endearing, funny, and heart-wrenching. This is a great summer read without being a beach read. It has weight and heart, and the pages keep turning. If you haven’t read it, consider picking up a copy and taking it on the plane, in the car, or to the pool. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Happy Reading!
