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Lucky Strikes | September 8, 2016

by Louis Bayard (Henry Holt & Co. BYR, July 2016)

Acclaimed mystery writer and former “Downton Abbey” recapper Louis Bayard ventures into young adult territory with the confidence of a veteran. Lucky Strikes is the story of 14-year-old Amelia Hoyle, narrated in her singularly brash and resonant voice. At the height of the Great Depression, Melia and her younger siblings are coping with the loss of their single mother while trying to hang onto the family gas station. When a hobo named Hiram tumbles into the orphans’ lives, Melia sees an opportunity to evade foster care.  

With a cast of kooky characters, elaborate charades, and rapid-fire dialogue, Lucky Strikes channels classic screwball films of the period. I could visualize every detail of the small town Virginia setting and connected immediately with the resilient heroine. Here’s hoping that YA hasn’t seen the last of Bayard.

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