review 1: Bones was named Precious Bones by her great-grandmother. So, even though she gets teased about her name, she bears it proudly. Bones lives with her father and mother in the swamps of eastern Florida. During the summer 1948, they are thrown into turmoil as her father becomes a suspect in two murders. This book is a coming-of-age story in many respects. Bones learns that parents sometimes lie to their children trying to keep them safe and happy. She, also, learns the truth behind her worst childhood fear, Soap Sally, a witch who searches the swamp for naughty children. The characters are richly portrayed. The only negative about the book is the length. The author takes a long time developing the plot. There are many instances of foreshadowing that are not resolved ... moreuntil the end of the book. I think some children will find the story a bit tedious and give up which would be a great loss because it is a very good book. review 2: Bones and her best friend Little Man love spending their summer hunting, fishing and exploring the swamp. Her father Nolay is a Native American with somewhat of a temper. When two yankees come offering to buy his land he scares them off with a gun. When one of them turns up dead in the swamp Nolay becomes the prime suspect. Bones knows her daddy better than anyone. She knows he is innocent. Since the sheriff is taking so long to prove it she figures it is up to her to find out what is really going on. This book reminded me of Carl Hiaasen's book "Flush". I believe my students will enjoy this as much as I did. less
