gradual realization of their sexuality is portrayed with skill, and Skipstone compassionately renders the everyday struggles, loves, passions, fears, and self-doubts of Tracy as she deals with the unexpected family tragedy. Framed as an autobiography, Tracy’s passionate first-person narration vibrates with intense emotion and explicit detail, allowing readers to experience her fury, frustration, and excitement as she strives to live life on her own terms.” Skipstone embeds a wide variety of references to both classical music and popular songs of the late 60s, enhanced by a suggested Spotify playlist, as well as the lyrics of the songs Tracy herself writes to express her anger, angst, longing, and love. Tracy’s talents as a musician help her negotiate her world, and music lovers will appreciate the prominent role it plays within the story. “The inspiring and emotional story of a young lesbian’s journey toward wholeness in Texas in the 1960s. Twists are in plenty, and the ending is heartwarming and satisfying.” There is more to this tale than is immediately apparent: the book grapples with relevant questions about the meaning of a life well-lived, love, regret, and redemption while exploring teenage and young adult drama, sibling bond, family, friendship, and the hot-button issues of the era such as LGBTQ and gender and racial inequalities. Swiftly moving narrative gives windows into the lives of other characters in Tracy’s life, highlighting how one’s tiny action can change the course of someone else’s life. Gradual realization of their sexuality is portrayed with skill, and Skipstone compassionately renders the everyday struggles, loves, passions, fears, and self-doubts of Tracy as she deals with the unexpected family tragedy.

The Moonstone Girls by Brooke Skipstone