Self, interaction, and natural environment Book

Wim takes in strays and works as stable manager for Dune Stables, in Provincetown, owned by Evelyn and Tammy. The summer before her senior year, Wim's family worries about her future, and how she is coping with the death of a friend, but Wim feels comfortable with her life. That summer her family takes in her great aunt Kia, and a researcher arrives from Aotearoa/ New Zealand to study Maori ties with Cape Cod sailing families. Mysteries unfold that connect with Wim personally, and - to quote the book jacket "It will take every ounce of Wim's courage to sift through the secrets and open her heart to love again.

I found this book a page turner - with compelling mysteries and tensions between the characters - captured realistically in the dialogue as characters struggle to understand each other and Wim struggles with her own feelings and identity. I like the complexity of characters, including Wim's parents and other adults. In addition, it is a nature story - as Wim explores marshes, beaches, and woods - discovering wildlife, particularly the white heron that the Maori's call "Kotuku." It is a cultures in contact story told from a white perspective, but brings to life the historic connections between Maori culture and new england sailors. A unique twist on a coming of age story. Another element of diversity in this story is the same-sex couple, Evelyn and Tammy, Their relationship is a very matter of fact and accepted part of Wim's life. (Well, it is set in Provencetown.)

Great read. I accidentally read it twice but enjoyed it both times.