Irises

Stork, Francisco X.     Irises       

Scholastic/Grolier/Childrens Press/Watts  2012  288p  $17.99      978-0-545-15135-1       ms/hs   VG-BN    Realistic fiction

This is a multi-layered and nuanced novel dealing with ethical issues, faith, and the bond between two sisters.  Following the death of their father, the denial of his insurance claim, eviction from their parsonage home, and questions about how to deal with their mother, who is in a persistent vegetative state, Kate and Mary must navigate the financial and ethical dilemma in which they find themselves.  Kate has been accepted to Stanford University, but attending will put an undue financial burden on the sisters.  The proposal from her boyfriend and an attraction to the ambitious new minister pose another problem for Kate.  Mary, a talented artist who is wishing for a miracle happen that will save their comatose mother, has not been able to paint since the accident.  But a reluctant gang member with a talent for art provides the spark for Mary to think about art again. 

As they navigate legal, financial and ethical problems, each sister grows in strength and maturity.  Stork has, once again, given readers memorable characters and a thought-provoking plot.  A compelling read for upper middle- and high-school readers.         

VG-BN Pat Naismith      Sisters, Death of a parent, Grief, Coma, Ethics