THE BLUE STAR

In Tony Earley's earlier novel, JIM THE BOY, Jim Glass is 10 years old in Aliceville, North Carolina, during the Depression. In this novel, the world teeters on the brink of WWII, and Jim, a senior in high school, is in the throes of his first love. Alas, the object of Jim's affections, Chrissie, belongs to someone else. Earley offers a simple tale filled with pre-WWII optimism and sage counsel: "Being in love is like getting run over. Sometimes it kills you, and sometimes it don't." Narrator Kirby Heyborne manages to keep things nostalgic rather than ironic, bittersweet rather than sentimental. Heyborne's youthful voice convinces as Jim learns difficult lessons. Listeners of all ages will enjoy a brief respite with decent folks in a sweeter, gentler time. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2008]