Hey from Boston

[MarySullivan]

Hi,

I'm new to HelloGiggles. I live in Cambridge with my husband and four kids. This summer we have spent most of our time reading and swimming and eating ice cream. But on Aug 2 I am publishing my first Young Adult book, Dear Blue Sky (check my website marysullivan.net).

Told through the point of view of 12-year old Cassie, Dear Blue Sky tells the story of a family that falls apart after the oldest brother Sef leaves for Iraq. He becomes a soldier because all the men in their family have gone to fight in wars, and because he believes he can make a difference. His departure causes friction between Cassie’s parents because her father believes in the war while her mother does not. Her sister Van starts acting out in self-destructive ways and Jack, her brother with Down Syndrome who used to make everyone laugh, stops talking altogether.

At first there isn’t anyone Cassie can talk to—until a Social Studies project leads her to Blue Sky, an Iraqi Girl blogger. When Blue Sky shares her experiences, Cassie begins to understand the other side of war. She begins to make sense of her world, as confusing and messy as it is. And she begins to have hope for the first time since Sef left.

Check it out, write to me, ask questions--I'd love to hear your thoughts!

Thanks, Mary

[physicist5]

Woah that story sounds dark...but also enjoyable. I live around Boston too, in Medfield. Where is your book being sold?

[MarySullivan]

It's not as dark as it is realistic.
I grew up in Medfield! Dear Blue Sky will be for sale at Park Street Books, and I hope to come there for a reading/signing.