I groaned when I read the first few pages of A Million Things, thinking here we go again, the old "child left on their own" trope. Fortunately, I stuck with it and by the next chapter, I was hooked.
This is a delightfully sad story about a 10 year-old girl (Rae), a dog (
…more Splinter) and a hoarding old lady (Lettie) who lives next door. The resiliency of all three of them is what keeps this book interesting and from turning maudlin.
Rae's mother disappears but Rae is used to being on her own, and carries on, taking care of herself and Splinter. When Lettie falls and needs Rae's help the story line takes it's most interesting turn. Watching Rae, Lettie and Splinter form their own family is the crux of the book. And, with all families there are ups and downs, yet they keep going.
For me, the only disappointment of the book was the ending - which is very realistic - but sometimes you want to suspend reality! Read this book, you won't be sorry. (less)