The night swimmers Book

Let me start by saying that I loved this book. It reminded me why I constantly have my kids read the old Newberry and National Book Award winners. Written in 1980, it brings to life summers when kids disappeared for days at a time, when there were no planned activities, and each day held its own possibilities. After finishing this book, I took a look at some of the other reviews on Goodreads, to gauge the general opinion. I was struck most by the repeated mention of how sad this book was, and about all of the fighting. Maybe because I live with a 9 and 11 year old, I did not find the gentle bickering contained in this book to be a theme. I found it to be hopeful, and at times, moving and funny. None of the characters took themselves too seriously; from Roy in his "chubby" jeans, to Shorty, in his pink velour cowboy suit. Admittedly, this is a group of people who have been through a lot - their mother died, and 12-year-old Retta, the oldest and only daughter has been left in charge of her two younger brothers. But there is a new girlfriend, and she is not an evil, abusive stepmother. And there is a new friend for the boys, who shares their sense of adventure and night meanderings. And, finally, there is a father, who cares more about his children than he once thought possible.