REVIEWS+

God Is in the Pancakes

by Robin Epstein
267p. 978-0-80373-382-4.
COPY ISBN
Gr 8-10 Grace Manning, 15, gets her first job at a local nursing home as a candy striper. She begins to enjoy herself when she meets Frank Sands, a resident with Lou Gehrig's disease. He encourages Grace's wit, teaches her to play poker, and is a surrogate for her father, who recently walked out on her family. Their relationship builds, and they have fun together in spite of their surroundings. And Frank asks a favor of her"to help him die." Her inner turmoil about this request is played out against her everyday concerns of school and relationships with her sister, mother, and male best friend who is slowly becoming something more. The action moves along with few lulls, and the protagonist's voice is true for a girl her age. Readers will identify with Grace, cheer her triumphs, and empathize with her most difficult decisions and her belief that everyone finds comfort in pancakes. Fans of Sarah Dessen and Deb Caletti will rejoice at finding Epstein."Suanne Roush, Osceola High School, Seminole, FL" Copyright 2010 Media Source Inc.
As Grace struggles with her parents' divorce, as well as feelings for her best friend, her world is again changed when she befriends an elderly man stricken with ALS. She is then faced with an impossible decision about whether or not to help him die on his own terms. This poignant story with doses of humor is touching and thought-provoking.

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?