The Mysterious World of Marcus Leadbeater

Five months ago Marc's grandfather drowned. Marc was there when it happened, and has been overwhelmed ever since with guilt and pain. Finally he decides to visit Gramps and Gran's home, to find peace among cherished memories and confront the void created by Gramps's death. Marc is shocked when he arrives: the house, maintained by Gramps and Marc all these years and filled with Gramps's artistry and other mementos, is scheduled to be auctioned the next day. Even more perplexing, Gran is nowhere to be found. With the help of an old friend of Gramps, Marc is able to make sense out of the confusion. As he searches for Gran, Marc finally discovers how to let go of his grief. Southall copiously traces Marc's thought processes; moments of time are suspended and explored with interruption of the plot flow. Marc's provocative mental journey potently portrays a young man's struggle to accept the loss of a loved one. At least two readings are required to do this book justice. Ages 12-up. (July)