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Raising Wrecker by Summer Wood

Raising Wrecker

A Novel

by Summer Wood
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  • Critics' Consensus:
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  • First Published:
  • Feb 15, 2011, 304 pages
  • Paperback:
  • Sep 2012, 304 pages
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Reviews

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There are currently 29 reader reviews for Raising Wrecker
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Kathy S. (Danbury, CT)

Family
Loved this one! A very insightful book that reveals its characters as flawed and three dimensional. This book is set in northern California and is the story of Wrecker, a three year old boy whose mother is sent to prison. Wrecker is adopted by a distant uncle who has his own sorrows, and is raised by a group of people living on the next farm over who become his family. Explores the concept of family, and illustrates how the family we choose (or the family that chooses us) may be better for us than the family we were born into.
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Sylvia G. (Scottsdale, AZ)

The opposite of a wreck
Really enjoyed this one. Wrecker is set in northern California and is the story of Wrecker, a three year old in 1968, whose mother is sent to prison. Adopted by a distant relative, he is raised by a diverse group of people who become a family. The characters are so natural and flawed and three dimensional, you'd swear they are real people. Expressively written with great tenderness and affection.
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Donna W. (Wauwatosa, WI)

Wrecker - A Love Story
With beautiful language and strong sentences the author weaves an intricate story of family love. The story begins in the late 60's in northern California, and it focuses on a boy named Wrecker. However, it is really the group of people surrounding Wrecker that make this story so special.

She creates such appealing and real characters, that right from the first page I was drawn into their lives and concerned about what happens to them.

This is truly a rewarding read!
Cheri W. (Grand Rapids, MN)

Sometimes it is Nice to Read About Good People
This was a page-turner from the opening of the book until the ending. It is nice to read about good people doing good things for each other. Wrecker is a little boy whose adults have failed him. He is lucky enough to be taken in by some of the most engrossing, kind-hearted people there could possibly be. This book follows him as he, and others, learn to trust again... and eventually learn that hope really isn't a bad thing. One of the most "happy" books I have read in a long time. Highly recommend it to anyone who needs a burst of brightness in their day!
WDH (New Port Richey, FL)

Good
I liked this book, but found it a bit disjointed, meaning I sometimes had to jump around a bit to pull the storyline together. The characters are interesting and it definitely brings forth the concept that family doesn't always mean being related to each other by birth, but can be what people form when the care for each other and make a life together. Secrets and moving beyond what's happened in the past to create their future are also strong elements. Enjoyed.
Brenda S. (Grand Rapids, MN)

An Exhausting Trip
Summer Wood obviously had a vision when writing this book; however, it was a difficult story to follow and many times I had to reread sections to be sure which character was speaking. The emotional twists of these very strong women kept a person continuing on a hopeful journey for promising resolutions. Life is messy...Summer got that part right. I'm glad I read this book...it will be with me for a long time.
Shelley C. (Eastport, NY)

Wrecker
This is truly an excellent story with so many interesting elements. However, I found it difficult to read and at times almost put it aside intent on never picking it up again. I am glad though that I stuck with it. The ending was really a good payoff for me. It made me feel really good that there are second chances in life and there are strangers out there who could become really good friends; even family.
Power Reviewer
Suzanne G. (Tucson, AZ)

A good story......
I enjoyed the book very much. I felt some characters could have been expanded to get a better picture of their involvement. For instance: What was Ruth's story? Or Johnny Appleseed's story? "Wrecker" had a predictable ending but the journey there kept my interest peaked. I even approved of Willow's and Len's love. And, of course, love of each family member as the book unfolded.

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