By Ann Marie Stewart
Stars in the Grass
2017 Christy Award: Debut Novel
About the book
Literary Fiction
Abby McAndrews’ first family vacation in August of 1970 goes from idyllic to tragic when an unexplainable accident takes the life of her younger brother. The consequences reverberate as her family unravels with grief, guilt, and anger.
Her father Reverend McAndrews cannot return to the pulpit because he has more questions than answers. Her older brother Matt is convinced he should have died instead and his dangerous actions may be self-fulfilling prophecy. Her mother Renee shows a newfound strength as she tries to pull the family back together. But when her dad cannot move on, her mother moves out, leaving Abby desperately seeking a way to go on even if her family cannot.
STARS IN THE GRASS is a story of relationships, the resiliency of family and about whether it’s safe to hope again when life seems fragile and unpredictable. Abby’s heartbreaking remembrances are balanced by humor and nostalgia as her family struggles with—and ultimately celebrates—life after loss.
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What People Say
STARS IN THE GRASS is one of those books you cannot put down once you start reading it! I found myself crying and laughing throughout the entire novel.
Although this story is about tragedy hitting a young family, the author writes in such a way that the joy and fun in life still shines through.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a memorable read that will tug on your emotions and leave you with a great feeling of hope.
– Heidi V.
