Finding Grace

the long version

"In this sequel to Mary Saracino's debut novel, No Matter What, 11-year-old Peanut Giovanni describes the explosive aftermath of her mother's decision to run away with her lover, a priest - taking her three young daughters with her and leaving her home, her marriage, and her two teenaged sons behind."--BOOK JACKET. "From the beginning, it is clear to Peanut that her mother has made a terrible mistake. The idyllic life in "Happy Town" and harmonious family Marie Giovanni had envisioned does not materialize. Instead, tragedy further devastates the Giovanni family, undermining the already-turbulent relationship between Marie and her lover. Seeking to escape an intolerable situation and be reunited with her father, Peanut finds Grace - both literally and figuratively. Memories of Grace give Peanut strength to separate herself from her mother's needs and to forge her own identity as Regina Giovanni."--BOOK JACKET.