Between Before and After
- Children & Youth
- Fiction
- Publisher: Blink (HarperCollins Focus)
- Published: 2019
FritzSearch.com earns a commission on purchases made through Bookshop.org links.
Publisher's Description
A mother being dragged ever deeper into the icy waters of depression. A daughter who finds a devastating secret about a shadowy past buried in her mom’s dresser. And the key to unlocking a long-hidden family mystery that could save or destroy much more than their two lives. Fourteen-year-old Molly worries about school, friends, and her parents’ failed marriage, but mostly about her mother Elaine’s growing depression. Molly knows her mother, who shuts herself off from human connections and instead buries herself in the lives and deaths of the strangers she writes about, is nursing her own carefully-kept secret. But in Elaine’s raw and fragile state, Molly knows not to pry too deeply. Until her Uncle Stephen is thrust into the limelight because of his miracle cure of a young man and her mother can no longer hide behind other people’s stories. As Molly digs into her mother’s past, she finds a secret hidden in her mother’s dresser that may be the key to unlocking a family mystery dating to 1918 New York—a secret that could save or destroy their future. Between Before and After is: A riveting YA story told in dual narratives during the flu epidemic in 1918 New York City and 1955 San Jose, California An historical coming-of-age novel about the complex bonds between mothers and daughters. Written by award-winning poet, novelist, and teacher Maureen McQuerry Perfect for fans of Ruta Sepetys and Laurie Halse Anderson
Endorsements (5)
“A beautifully layered story of secrets, hope, and change. This gem of a novel has all the hallmarks of a classic.”
“Maureen’s flowing prose pulls the reader in closely to the harsh realities of life for children in 1918 New York City, but also conveys the strength of a sister’s love for her brother when everything dear to them is ripped away. The duel narratives of Molly and Elaine grip the reader in a crescendo of suspense that pays off like a favorite fairy tale.”
“This coming-of-age novel about a mother and daughter delves into the complex nature of relationships with an earnest voice and vivid details. Highly recommended!”
“In Between Before and After, Maureen McQuerry weaves two equally captivating storylines into a seamless and moving tale of a daughter’s search for her mother’s truth. There’s no better way to say it than this—I loved this book!”
“Between Before and After is that rare novel where you want to turn the pages quickly but must resist because you want to savor every word. McQuerry’s richly rendered settings of New York City in 1918 during the flu pandemic and San Jose, California, in 1955 feature conflicted characters in challenging real-life situations. An unforgettable read, start to finish.”
See something wrong on this page? Report a problem