Stillwater

Small-town 1950s America, as related by 12-year-old Grace and her best friends Maggie and Louanne.
Maggie's father died when she was 8 - she was told it was an accident at work. Louanne's Uncle Tony is feared and mistrusted throughout the town because he suffers from mental illness. The relevance of these two, seemingly unconnected, parts of the story eventually becomes clear.
The school janitor is sacked after an episode involving Maggie and Grace.
An arsonist is at large, starting fires in several places in the town.
The townspeople blame Uncle Tony because of his strange behaviour.
But is he responsible...?
A tale of growing up, a mystery and attitudes to mental illness.
There are some parts of the story that seem a little unbelievable - the children seem especially accident prone and some of their scrapes appear gratuitous, but apart from that it is a well-told story, which explores mental illness effectively.

***I was given a copy of Stillwater by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***

The best word I can think of for this novel is 'intoxicating'. It's the kind of book you start reading, and then you don't stop- not so much because you find out what happens (although I definitely did!), but because the characters and the world they inhabit is so beautifully written. I wanted to live in it forever.

Stillwater is an intricate, complex coming-of-age novel, set in upstate New York in the 1950s. Although they might be geographically close to New York City, the town of Stillwater is worlds away: the kind of place where people are identified by the jobs they have, the kind of place where everyone knows everyone. The kind of place where, when there's a fire, a bell is rung and the whole of the town scrambles to see what's happening.

Grace is 12, and growing up in Stillwater with her best friends Maggie, who sometimes turns up at Grace's house in a distress she won't talk about, and Louanne, who has moved away but comes back every summer. It is the summer, and the days stretch out ahead of them, ready to be filled with trips to the lake and entrepeneurial bike-skiing ventures. The summer, however, pans out very differently, and each of the girls has to grow up in new and scary ways.

Although the three main characters are a little younger than the stereotypical coming-of-age novels, something that's discussed a little in the author's note at the end. However, I personally think this book still fits perfectly into the coming-of-age and young adult categories. I think in a way this is representation that's needed- characters, especially girls, who are really too young for the adult worlds they're being forced into, but who are forced into them all the same; something that, sadly and awfully, is something that happens all the time.

I really loved Grace, Maggie and Louanne as characters. They were all different, but worked so well as a whole- the differences in their personalities and experiences were clear, but I could also understand and appreciate their friendships, individually and as a trio. I think that the blurb for this book maybe downplays how crucial and prominent friendship is in this story, it's really a defining feature, this trio of girls who have to deal with so much, but know they can do so as long as they have each other.

Obviously a major theme in Stillwater is mental illness, and societal attitudes towards mental illness: as they were in the 1950s, but how they're also not so different now. The storyline is dominated by two characters who, in themselves, are largely absent from the storyline (Uncle Tony is there, but far more often talked about or alluded to), but who's mental illnesses are felt and impact the girls and the town. I think that's a really risky position to take, and one that risks being highly ableist, but I think it's actually handled really well, and largely manages to avoid those risks. This is especially present in the story of Grace's father, and the way Doc is clear that, no matter what, he loved his children. I do wonder whether the ending could be a little iffy, but I can also see why it was the way it was. As well, Stillwater looks at mental health: how, even though she might not have a mental illness, Grace is affected by grief and trauma.

Another major feature of this book is that it is, in many ways, a mystery novel: someone is setting fires, and although the town suspects Uncle Tony, a relative of Louanne's who's life is heavily affected by schizophrenia, Grace and Louanne are convinced it isn't him. The girls work together to try and uncover who is really behind it, and I found myself looking for clues and hints the same way I would when reading a straightforwards mystery.

I'm aware this review is already hopelessly long, but another thing I really want to touch on is the little details! I loved that O'Malley the policeman is always referred to as O'Malley the policeman- it really added to the atmosphere and setting of the book as a small town, where everyone has a set role. Linguistically I think some excellent choices were made, although I can't narrow them down or single them out at all, the language made me really feel like I was conversing with a pre-teen from 1950s small town America.

There were some little bits that annoyed me a little- some of the plot points unfolded maybe a little too quickly I think, and I didn't really like the kind of redemption arc of one of the characters. There were also some parts that felt a little superfluous mostly. I would have liked the book to touch a little more on religion- although Maggie and Grace were of a different religion to Louanne, this wasn't ever really discussed, and given the context I wonder whether there could have been more discussion here. Similarly, whilst the setting was great, there wasn't always much historical context.

Overall, however, this is a fantastic book, and a truly great addition to the world of YA. I wish I could read it all over again.

4.5 Stars

A fantastic and well written story of survival, loneliness, love and the coming of age. The friends who offer such wonderful support, to each other, show how important small gestures can be to another person and how we can make a difference in the life of someone else. The author's description of upstate New York in which the main characters reside is beautifully and vividly described, as if you are a part of it. The characters all came to life, each with their own personalities and perfect imperfections. This is a beautifully written and compelling novel. The author has a magnificent way with words and I found myself re-reading paragraphs simply to relish the writing. The subject matter is gripping and the characters very well developed. I didn't want it to end, highly recommend it.

Stillwater is an interesting read with an original plot that deals with family secrets and how people perceive mental health.

I loved this book. It's easily one of the best books I've read this year. I loved the story of Grace and her family and her friends. I like that Grace just knows that the police are wrong about Uncle Tony and that if no one else is going to fix it then she has to and what's happening to Maggie is wrong, too.

I think that maybe my favorite scene in the book is when she and Lorraine save the people on the boat from getting damaged in the canal.

When I describe the book this way, it somehow seems like it may be Pollyanna-ish or a bible story, but it's not. Grace and her family and friends are quirky. She lives with her mother and brother and grandfather,

It's fun and funny and compelling.

I felt nostalgic reading this, not because I grew up in 1950s upstate New York where the story is set, but because of the strong echoes of Judy Blume, whose books I devoured as a teen, and today.

Grace and her best friends are 12 years old in this coming-of-age novel. Two of the girls attend a strict catholic school and live in a community with strong views about behaviour and morals. Grace and her friends spend the summer with more freedom than we could imagine giving 12 year olds today, but also the struggle of dealing with mental illness, death, divorce, justice as well as solving crime, risk taking and dealing with the often harsh consequences of their actions, fair or unfair.

The opening chapters launch straight into action and then the book settles into a steady rhythm - I didn’t find the ‘action’ really picked up until the last couple of chapters, don’t expect to be on the edge of your seat, it’s a slow burner after the initial charge.

I enjoyed this book and will certainly read more from Mary Jo Hazard.

I really enjoyed reading this coming of age story. It was very well written and gives a clear picture of what mental illness is. I liked how the author made the point of not judging people by making the hero of the story someone that was suffering from mental illness. The story also teaches about abuse and divorce issues. Though this is a coming of age story, it is meant for a more mature audience. Reading the story reminded me of all the trouble kids can get into during the summer. If you are looking for a more dramatic read, this is a great pick!

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review**
A real coming-of-age story exploring a wealth of issues through growing up in a small town. Family secrets and local mysteries are investigated by 3 young girls while they're also dealing with their own issues and trying to become decent people.
I enjoyed this one, even though I did guess the identity of the arsonist. Having grown up in a small town myself, I identified with a lot of the problems that the girls faced.

A well written family drama that will capture your heart as you uncover a family in crisis and see what it takes to overcome. You will cheer for Grace as she struggles with learning the truth about her family and as she takes the first shaky steps away from childhood. Definitely check this out. Happy reading!

Stillwater, an idyllic little town in upstate New York. We are guided by Grace, 12 years old and about to learn that adults are not always the trustworthy people they are assumed to be.
Along with her friends, Maggie & Louanne, Grace spends an extremely hot Summer grappling with grief, abuse, crime, mental illness, family and most of all, friendship.
Grace is a lovely character. She is fiercely loyal; she is kind and a very brave young lady.
This really a very lovely coming of age book and an easy read despite the topics covered.

Twelve-year-old Grace believes that all adults are trustworthy and good. So begins a coming-of-age story full of laughter and tears that takes place one hot summer in upstate New York in the 1950s.

This is an incredibly intense story about life in the 1950's America centred around anyone different and especially anyone with mental health issues. The book is very hard-hitting and thought-provoking and not an easy read.

This is a first for me by the author and one I enjoyed and would read more of her work. The book cover is eye-catching and appealing and would spark my interest if in a bookshop. Thank you very much to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC

I really enjoyed this powerful coming of age novel. Loved the small town setting and compelling mystery. This book was definitely a page turner!

Three friends and their amazing story of supporting one and another. While reading this book, I get a major vibe of 'To KIll a Mockingbird' and the author stated about this in the author's note. I give kudos to the author for being influenced by the renowned classic and for being able to deliver the impression throughout the novel. Still there was something missing for me. I struggle a bit to find the target audience for this book. Sometimes, I feel it is written for the young adult and sometimes it feels like middle graders are the main readers. I was surprised to know that the protagonist is 12 years old but in the story she seems like a more mature person at one point. Still the story carved its way beautifully.

Stillwater, by Mary Jo Hazard, is the story of three pre-teen girls, learning the values of love, life, and survival. Set in the 1950's we meet three girls. These friends are not only bound by their small town existence, but have some deeper issues, although not shared, they all have family secrets to contend with. One girl is dealing with the divorce of her parents. One girl is dealing with mental illness within the family, and one girl is dealing with domestic violence. Not only do the girls struggle to overcome their own situations, but they learn to trust in and support one and other.
Story outcomes teach us that people are not always who they seem. People do not always do things for the seemingly obvious reasons. There are good people, and not so good people in life, but kindness is key. It is easy to sit in judgement. It is hard work to dig deep for answers, but the truth always prevails. Most importantly, we find that true friendship and the bonds formed by this love are one of life's greatest gifts.

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Stillwater, NY in the 50s was fun to read about... although the bulk of it was problematic and full of all sorts of drama. The main characters are 3 preteens just experiencing life with their families.... the members of which aren't always as trustworthy or well-behaved as they'd like the girls to think. If you used to watch the Jerry Springer Show back in the day then give this book a whirl and experience that lovely nostalgia.

Thanks netgalley for giving me the pdf so that I can share my thoughts and opinions with y'all 🧡

This was a really well written book, with an interesting take on mental health. Would definitely recommend!

‘Stillwater’ is a quiet suburb in 1950’s America with a sinister undertone as several fires have been deliberately started around town. The locals have their suspicions starting and ending with Tony; a man prone to violent outbursts and few friends.
The narrator, twelve year old Grace and her friends believe that Tony is innocent and set out to find the real arsonist. However the three young friends all have their own problems to cope with like domestic violence and mental illness. On the one hand this is a coming-of-age book that deals with some very heavy topics but on the other it is a novel you can easily get lost in because the description of Stillwater is so vivid and the characters so effortlessly developed.
I know a lot of comparisons have been drawn with this novel and ‘To kill a mockingbird’ and you can see in the author’s notes that the American classic was an inspiration to Hazard. The truth is that it stands alone as a beautiful, compassionate story that is understated in style but stays with you in the same way ‘Mockingbird’ does. I really loved this book and cannot help but recommend it to all.

This was a fun, thrilling and captivating read that had a bunch of effective, and unique characters in a nostalgic summer camp setting that had me thinking of shows like Dead Of Summer and movies such as Friday The 13th and Sleepaway Camp. A pure delightful and thrilling read!