Triplet sisters Mab, Monday, and Mirabel Mitchell were born in Bourne 16 years ago, the same year a disaster at the local chemical plant left the town reeling. Mab describes herself as the “normal” sister; studious and social, she wonders if a “normal” future is possible for her outside of Bourne. Monday is on the autism spectrum, can’t lie, and takes on the role of town librarian after the local library shuts down. Mirabel uses a wheelchair to move and assistive technology to speak, and is a sharp observer of Bourne’s residents. Their mother, the town’s therapist and bartender, is dedicated to bringing a lawsuit against the chemical plant owners. When a new kid, River Templeton, grandson of the plant’s CEO, shows up at school, news spreads that the plant will reopen. The Mitchell sisters each play to their strengths to piece together what’s happening at the plant, and learn more about themselves and their town along the way.
VERDICT The residents of Bourne are scrappy, resilient, and unforgettable. Frankel’s (This Is How It Always Is) novel is part Erin Brockovich, part coming-of-age novel, and sure to spark lively discussions at book club meetings.
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