Gail Shepherd

Lyndie, Ma, and Daddy move in with Daddy’s grandparents Lady and Tad after Daddy loses his job. Attending the funeral of his army buddy appears to send Tyrus (Daddy) into a tailspin: Lyndie notices he is drinking, he is unable to pull himself together, and he has a gun, against Lady’s and Ma’s wishes. Lady is determined to protect the family reputation and deflects gossip about Tyrus’ behavior. Meanwhile, at school, Lyndie meets D.B., a new boy who’s been held in juvenile detention but is living with Dawn Spurlock’s family on a trial release. His honesty about his troubled past gets budding historian Lyndie to realize that honesty may be more important than family loyalty. Colorful characters, particularly the Southern-proper Lady for whom appearances matter and family loyalty is paramount. Lyndie can be a hoot, with her quick smart mouth and stubborn manner. D.B. is as quick on the draw as Lyndie. Narrative is spry and informal, with humorous and descriptive lines.… (més)