“My mother died praying on her knees.”

Isabel's mother died peacefully. At least that's what Isabel likes to think, since no one will talk about the truth. But the truth has a way of revealing itself at night. Tata sleeps curled up on the floor right where her mother's body was found. Olivia wets her bed and wakes repeatedly from nightmares, and Frank starts carving his anger into the bedroom wall. It's up to Isabel to help her family get beyond the pain and loss - to be the keeper of the night. But who will be there for Isabel and help her through to the other side?

Inspirations

I spent my fifth and sixth-grade years on Guam. Those two years proved magical. Coconuts and hibiscus grew in our yard. We swam and snorkeled all year long. I attended fiestas, explored caves, experienced typhoons and earthquakes. Best of all, I learned what it was like to live among people of a different culture because each weekday the school bus drove me to P.C. Lujan Elementary School where I attended classes with Chamorro and with other military kids.

In 2002 the Guam Council of the International Reading Association invited me back to visit schools. While I was there, I was inspired to write a book set on my island home. 

Reviews

"The author works magic, recreating the sights, sounds, and smells of Guam and encapsulating the essence of her characters through very few words."
-Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

"A beautifully written description of sorrow and recovery that should appeal to a wide audience."
-School Library Journal, Starred Review

"Stunningly beautiful."
-Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review  

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