A Stone's Throw: A heartwarming story of a city girl and her rancher grandfather turning adversity into love and community

by Wayne Edwards

When Lillian Stone lapses into a coma and is admitted to a San Francisco hospital in the spring of 1969, her only child, twelve-year-old Maggie, is temporarily taken in by her best friend's family. More than a month later, the neighbors can no longer afford to provide for Maggie's room and board. Uprooted again, she is sent to a local orphanage. Just as she's beginning to adapt to life at the orphanage, Ira Stone, a grandfather she never met, shows up unexpectedly and shuttles her 1200 miles away to live at his ranch on the isolated plains of eastern Montana.

Maggie knows nothing about her hard-nosed WWI Veteran Grandpa other than being aware that he and her mother have long been estranged. Thrust into a culture and lifestyle that couldn't be more opposite of her San Francisco upbringing, Maggie is suddenly expected to do household and barnyard chores under the critical eye of a grizzled old rancher.

Ira and Maggie are equally skeptical of each other as they attempt to adapt to the vastly different world they now share. In addition to facing all the challenges in her new life, the worry of whether her mom will ever regain consciousness is never far from Maggie's thoughts. Despite having to overcome the overwhelming obstacles placed in her path, Maggie's grit, determination, and can-do spirit are evident in this heartwarming story of how she wins the love and respect of the members of her new community, not the least of which is her grandfather, Ira Stone.

Genres: Novels, Animals, Found Family, Coming Of Age, Dogs, Wholesome, Drama

308 pages, Paperback

Published May 28, 2024

About the author

Born and raised in Denton, Montana, Wayne Edwards is a Treasure State native. His education included a B.S. from Montana State University, followed by a doctorate degree from the University of Washington. Now retired from a 30-year banking career in Denton, Wayne has used his life-long interest in writing to launch a second career as an aspiring author.

Edwards, a three-sport high school standout and All-Conference college tailback, used his playing days and the coaching of his hometown high school football team experience as inspiration to write his first book, PACER COULEE CHRONICLES. This entertaining fiction novel introduces the reader to the unique-to-small town interconnections that exist between school, sport and community in rural, small-town America. PACER COULEE CHRONICLES was first published in 2021, with a revised edition print, eBook and audio-book released in 2024.

Also a children's author, Edwards published BUSTER THE BRIDGER MOUNTAIN BEAR in 2021. A slightly revised second edition was republished under Quantum Shift Media in 2024. Wayne's next work, the Young Adult novel, A STONE'S THROW, was also released under Quantum Shift Media in 2024.

Wayne and his wife Lorinda have three grown daughters and eight grandchildren. They split the year between their Bozeman, Montana and Cave Creek, Arizona homes.

Reviews

[Genevieve Chinaza.N · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the midst of uncertainty and hardship, a young girl's resilience and determination can be truly inspiring. "A Stone's Throw" by Wayne Edwards tells the poignant story of Maggie Stone, a 12-year-old girl living in a low-class area of San Francisco with her mom. With no father or relative in sight, she's juggling taking care of her mom during the "spells" which she usually comes out from, and managing their household finances. A longer-than-usual spell saw her mom admitted to the hospital with no sign of waking; she moves from her mother's friend Sung Ju's house to an orphanage, and just when it seems that things couldn't get any worse, a stranger who calls himself Grandpa Ira Stone suddenly appears. Could this be the start of a better future for Maggie, and just how will she handle this transition?

It was really an interesting way to start the story with a chaotic and depressing hospital scene and a turbulence of emotions on Maggie, and just when I was deeply invested and filled with curiosity about Maggie's mother's conditions, Wayne took a break on the action and took us back to tell a background story, and it was brilliantly executed. I like the way Dr. Kakarla patiently broke down Maggie's mother's conditions to her; it felt like I was being schooled, and it was like a scene from one of those old early 21st-century medical series.
I felt incredibly sad about Maggie, a twelve-year-old having to go through so much and experience so much hardship; it's something I could never do at her age. But through it all, she was brave and took things as they came, with a sort of learning mindset. Being a smart girl, she always tried to approach each difficulty with a positive mindset, as seen with her initial reaction to Ira.

I love Maggie's character, her emotional mindset, and her relationship with God was not overlooked at each stage of the book; it gives the book a deeper feel and helps me connect with her. This beautiful story is meant for all young adults, but I think other ages will find it interesting with its well-developed characters, engaging plot, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for anyone looking for a story that will touch their heart and stay with them long after finishing it.

[Precious Okechi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone’s Throw is a beautifully written novel that follows Maggie Stone as she navigates adversity with remarkable courage. Maggie is more than a typical young adult protagonist, her premature responsibilities shape a maturity that feels both authentic and deeply relatable.

One painful scene that really stayed with me was when Maggie’s best friend Cho’s family, who had taken her in after her mom fell into a coma, realized they could no longer afford to care for her. Despite their kindness, they were forced to send her to an orphanage. The moment Maggie understood what was happening, her thoughts cut deep: “You’re sending me to an orphanage? You would really do that to me?” That quiet line captured the raw fear and sadness of a girl who had already lost so much, and it broke my heart.

Against this backdrop of loss, the bond that later develops between Maggie and her grandfather, Ira, feels even more powerful. Their relationship isn’t painted in clichés but through intimate, vulnerable moments. One scene that stood out to me is when Maggie finds a letter Ira wrote in his clumsy but heartfelt handwriting. In it, he admits the guilt he carries for the way he treated Maggie’s mother and confesses, “I ain’t good at saying it but I love you so much. You make my life worth living.” For a man of few words, it’s a raw outpouring of emotion. Maggie’s response thanking him, assuring him of her love, and tenderly wiping away the tears he couldn’t feel on the scarred side of his face was one of the most moving passages in the book. It captures the heart of the novel: the healing power of forgiveness and the quiet strength of family bonds.

What I especially loved was how the story was told through Maggie’s eyes. Her perspective captures both the confusion of youth, growth and emotional breakthroughs with nuance and sensitivity. The historical ranch setting–with its dusty kitchens, endless fields, and daily chores, grounds the story in a vivid reality that contrasts beautifully with Maggie’s emotional journey. The gentle pacing gives the reader time to sit with Maggie’s doubts, heartbreaks, and breakthroughs, making her growth feel all the more real.

A Stone’s Throw is more than just a coming-of-age novel. It’s a warm, emotionally stirring story about resilience, forgiveness, and belonging. With heartfelt character development and vivid settings it speaks not only to young adults but to readers of all ages.

I really loved reading this book and would rate it 5 out of 5. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys character-driven stories that tug at the heart and remind us of the strength that can be found in both family and community.

[Reviewer Tosin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wayne Edwards’s A Stone’s Throw: A heartwarming story of a city girl and her rancher grandfather turning adversity into love and community tells the deeply moving story of twelve-year-old Maggie Stone, a city girl suddenly thrust into rural Montana after her mother, Lillian, fell into a coma in San Francisco in 1969. With no close relatives around, Maggie initially stays with her best friend’s family. But when the family can no longer care for her, she’s sent to an orphanage. As Maggie is settling in, her estranged grandfather, Ira Stone, a tough World War I veteran, appears and takes her to his isolated ranch. The book explores Maggie’s journey as she learns to adapt to her unfamiliar new world, facing challenges from harsh weather to barnyard chores, all while coping with her worry over her mother’s health. Over time, Maggie and Ira form an unlikely bond as they grow to understand each other, showing how family can come together even in tough situations.

What I liked most about A Stone’s Throw was how the writer wrote about the growing relationship between Maggie and her grandfather. Ira isn’t warm and welcoming; he’s rough, and at first, he doesn’t seem to care much about Maggie’s struggles. But Maggie is strong and determined, and despite how different this new life is, she’s eager to prove herself. There are many memorable moments, like Maggie’s struggles with ranch chores and how she worries about her mom’s health. Her persistence helps her earn Ira’s respect, and it’s heartwarming to see her courage bring out a kinder side of Ira. The story is full of touching moments that show how families can support each other, even after years of separation.

Other characters also bring kindness and support to Maggie’s journey. The friends and neighbours she meets help her feel more at home, and the community itself serves as a comforting presence in her new life. Maggie’s ability to connect with the people around her, despite her initial hesitation, shows her adaptability and inner strength.

Honestly, there wasn’t anything I disliked about this book. Every scene helped me understand Maggie and Ira better. Ira’s tough personality and Maggie’s determination make for an interesting contrast that kept me hooked. Maggie’s struggles felt real, and her worries about her mother added to her originality as a character, making her someone I really rooted for.

I would rate A Stone’s Throw 5 out of 5 stars. The writer did a great job bringing the ranch setting to life and showing Maggie’s emotional journey. The way he described each character and setting made it easy to get lost in Maggie’s world, and I found myself fully invested in her journey.

I recommend it to anyone who enjoys heartwarming stories about family, growth, and overcoming hard times. This book would be perfect for readers who love coming-of-age stories and tales of resilience. It’s a memorable story that leaves you thinking about the strength of family bonds.

[Joy York · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautifully written coming of age story by Wayne Edwards was a delightful surprise. I picked it up to read for a while one afternoon and was so enthralled I didn’t put it down until I was halfway through the book. I finished it the next day. The story took me on a rollercoaster of emotions from heartbreaking tears to hopeful optimism.

Set in 1965, Maggie Stone is the twelve year old daughter of a single mother who suffers with a type of mental illness (spells as her daughter call them) that send her to bed unresponsive for hours. Forced to be the responsible adult since she was eight, Maggie has taken on the responsibilities of cooking, cleaning, shopping, and money management. Dealing with conflicting emotions, she is both fiercely protective and scornful of her mother’s abandonment. When her mother goes into a debilitating spell that she cannot be revived from, Lillian ends up in the hospital and Maggie ends up in an orphanage. A month later, her grandfather Ira, who has been estranged with his daughter since she ran away pregnant at fifteen, shows up in San Franscisco to take Maggie to his ranch in Montana. Ira is a good but hard man of few words who has etched out his successful ranch through backbreaking work in the unforgiving plains of Montana. A widower and a WWl veteran with battle scars, Ira struggles to relate to a young preteen he has never met. Having to adapt to volatile circumstances with her mother over the years, a tough-skinned Maggie swallows her emotions and makes the best of a completely foreign situation.

Told from Maggie’s point of view, I am in awe of Edward’s richly developed characterization of her. A young girl on the cusp of womanhood but still a child who has spent her life parenting her mother, luckily with the support of close neighbors, then thrown into a completely foreign situation with no cultural or geographical familiarity, close friends, or relatives she can relate to. Maggie feels abandoned, unloved, resentful, fearful for her mother and her future, misses her friends, and is insecure about learning her new roles and tasks for the farm and caring for animals she has never seen…it is all so intricately described through vivid descriptions and authentically poignant emotions. The organic transformation of Maggie and Ira’s relationship, and her assimilation into the small rural community is so beautifully drawn. I laughed. I cried. I cheered. I fell in love with this story and highly recommend it to young adults and adults alike.

[thereviewroom02 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Maggie Stone is a heartfelt coming-of-age tale that explores family, loss, and the search for belonging. Twelve-year-old Maggie has lived her entire life in a cramped San Francisco apartment with her mother, Lillian. Her world shatters when her mother suffers a spell that lasts far longer than usual, leading to her hospitalization. With no father in the picture and no immediate support system, Maggie finds herself placed in an orphanage.

Just when Maggie begins to settle into the routine of orphanage life, a stranger enters: Ira Stone, her grandfather. Maggie has never met Ira before, having only heard about him in fragments from her mother. He takes her away from the city and transports her to Montana, where he runs a ranch. Suddenly, Maggie is forced to adjust to an entirely new life—far away from her mother, her familiar surroundings, and everything she has ever known.

The novel beautifully contrasts Maggie’s city upbringing with the wide, rugged landscapes of Montana, mirroring the emotional journey of a girl caught between past secrets and an uncertain future. The strained family history between Lillian and Ira—rooted in disappointment, anger, and abandonment—casts a shadow over Maggie’s ability to trust her grandfather. The story raises compelling questions: Can Maggie accept Ira as family? 

With a strong, resilient protagonist in Maggie, the novel delicately portrays the vulnerability of childhood while highlighting resilience and the human need for connection. Readers are left rooting for Maggie as she navigates loss, identity, and the possibility of newfound family bonds.

[thebookaddict25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone’s Throw by Wayne Edwards is a heartfelt novel set in the late 1960s, following twelve-year-old Maggie Stone as her life is suddenly upended when her mother falls into a coma. Initially cared for by neighbors, Maggie is eventually placed in an orphanage—until Ira Stone, a grandfather she’s never met, arrives from rural Montana to take her in. Uprooted from San Francisco, Maggie is thrust into an unfamiliar world of hard work and harsh landscapes on Ira’s isolated ranch.

While Maggie struggles to adjust to life on a remote ranch, Ira—stern and set in his ways—grapples with the unfamiliar role of raising a child. Their relationship is strained by years of family silence and emotional distance, yet the shared challenge of adapting to each other slowly breaks down old walls. Amid barn chores and quiet tension, they begin to find common ground.

As Maggie learns to ride horses, drive a truck, and care for animals with the help of her dog, Dimwit, she grows stronger—both in spirit and in skill. All the while, the uncertainty surrounding her mother’s condition hangs over her, adding emotional weight to her physical challenges. Through it all, Maggie’s resilience and determination begin to soften Ira’s rough exterior.

Wayne Edwards paints this intergenerational story with warmth, realism, and compassion. With vivid characters and a strong sense of place, A Stone’s Throw explores themes of healing, belonging, and unexpected family bonds. It’s a story that lingers long after the final page, leaving readers both moved and hopeful.

[J.A.C Workplace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some books feel lived in, like slipping into someone’s memories, and A Stone’s Throw is exactly that: heartfelt, honest, and unforgettable. It’s 1969, and twelve-year-old Maggie Stone’s life takes a sharp turn when her mother is hospitalized for recurring “spells” and she finds herself shuffled into the cold strictness of a Catholic orphanage. Life there is harsh, but Maggie’s wit and resilience keep her afloat. When a new path opens, she’s sent to rural Montana to live with her grandfather, a rancher whose gruff exterior hides a steady hand. The shift from San Francisco streets to open pastures brings new challenges, farm chores, county fairs, complicated friendships, and her own search for belonging. Through Maggie’s keen eyes, the story explores what it means to hold on to family, even when family feels fractured.

Wayne writes with clarity and warmth, striking a balance between childlike immediacy and adult wisdom. Maggie’s first-person POV brims with humor, frank observations, and moments of aching honesty. While some orphanage passages linger a bit too long, the pacing finds its stride once the Montana chapters begin, blending description and action seamlessly.

Maggie is a remarkable protagonist, scrappy, bright, and deeply human. You believe in her triumphs because you’ve lived her struggles. Supporting figures, from the stern yet caring grandfather to Maggie’s steadfast friend Cho, are drawn with nuance. Even minor characters, like nuns at the orphanage or ranch hands, feel distinct and textured, grounding the story in authenticity. The novel excels at conjuring both urban San Francisco and rural Montana of the late ‘60s. Small sensory details like the chill of a barn at dawn or the rattle of a beat-up pickup anchor readers firmly in time and place.

At its core, the book is about resilience in the face of loss, the search for belonging, and the dignity of ordinary life. Wayne also weaves in reflections on mental health, generational divides, and the quiet heroism of doing the right thing when it’s hardest.

The book tugs hard at the heart. Maggie’s struggles at the orphanage sting, but her healing journey with her grandfather brings warmth. It’s a novel that sneaks up on you emotionally, and by the final chapters, you realize how much you care for these characters. What sets this book apart is its YA lens on the grandparent-grandchild bond, rare in coming-of-age stories, yet beautifully handled here. The mix of urban and rural settings in a single character’s arc also gives the novel a distinctive shape.

I'll rate it 4 out of 5 stars. The strength lies in its heartfelt narration, layered themes, and a protagonist worth rooting for. A slight pacing drag in the orphanage chapters holds it back from a perfect five, but the overall execution is exceptional. This book is perfect for readers who love realistic YA and fans and readers who enjoy small-town Americana with big emotional stakes and coming-of-age stories.

[Maven_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone's Throw by Wayne Edwards is a charming coming-of-age story aimed at middle-grade and young adult readers. The book's focal character is Maggie Stone. Maggie was a twelve-year-old orphan who was living in San Francisco. There was a change in her lifestyle when Ira, her grandfather, came to take her so they would live together, as he has the legal right to do this. When she moved to Montana with her Ira, she discovered this place was a whole different ball game, and here, she grapples with isolation, resentment, and a yearning to understand the past.

The author paints a vivid picture of 1960s Montana. The vastness of the ranch, the harsh beauty of the landscape, and the close-knit community all come alive through Maggie's apprehensive yet curious eyes. She navigates unfamiliar chores with a strict but stoic grandfather.

I found it satisfying that the characters were well-rounded and developed, especially Maggie. Maggie is a relatable protagonist; her emotional turmoil and confusion are palpable for the reader. The portrayal of Ira is particularly nuanced. Initially gruff and reserved, his gruffness gradually softens, revealing a well of grief and regret. The supporting characters, from the kindly neighbor to the mischievous ranch hand, add warmth and depth to the narrative.

The story unfolds at a gentle pace, allowing for an in-depth exploration of Maggie's emotional landscape. There was masterful weaving of flashbacks into the narrative, piecing together the fractured relationship between Maggie's parents and offering a glimpse into Ira's past. These glimpses provide a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and the emotional baggage they carry.

While the novel tackles some challenging themes, the overall tone remains optimistic. Maggie's resilience and capacity for growth shine through. The challenges she faces lead to positive outcomes, one of which was her discovery of her hidden strengths.

A Stone's Throw is a heartwarming read for young readers. Edwards' captivating storytelling and relatable characters make this journey through the pages of this book worth taking. In all, I'll rate it 5 out of 5 stars for my overall satisfaction.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story hit me harder than I expected. “A Stone’s Throw” isn't just a tale about a girl relocating from San Francisco to a Montana ranch—it’s about growing up, facing pain, and finding unexpected connections. I was drawn in by Maggie’s strength. She’s twelve, but she’s already navigating adult responsibilities—paying bills, handling her mother’s healthcare crisis, even surviving a stint in an orphanage. And yet, she still manages to stay compassionate and sharp. The scenes at the orphanage were especially intense and stayed with me long after I finished the book. Wayne Edwards does a brilliant job showing how trauma shapes people, but also how love, friendship, and perseverance can shape them too. There’s something timeless and powerful in this novel. If you're looking for a YA book that’s grounded, emotional, and ultimately uplifting—this one is unforgettable.

[deepikabiblio · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone’s Throw by Wayne Edwards is a coming-of-age story that follows twelve-year-old Maggie Stone as she navigates a life suddenly turned upside down. The novel opens with a gripping and unsettling hospital scene, immediately immersing the reader in Maggie’s fear and confusion as her mother falls into a mysterious, coma-like state. From there, the narrative unfolds with a strong first-person voice that captures Maggie’s vulnerability, resilience, and maturity beyond her years.

Maggie’s journey from a modest life in San Francisco to an orphanage and eventually to an unfamiliar ranch in Montana highlights themes of displacement, identity, and survival. The relationships she forms, particularly with the Jeong family and later her estranged grandfather, are realistic, revealing both kindness and limitations in human connections.

A Stone’s Throw is a heartfelt and engaging novel that balances emotional depth with a steady narrative pace. Edwards crafts a protagonist who is easy to root for, and her internal struggles make the story both relatable and impactful. This book will resonate with readers who appreciate character-driven stories about resilience, family, and finding strength in the face of uncertainty.

[Boundbybooks_01 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone's Throw by Wayne Edwards is a touching tale of resilience, love, and the unexpected bonds that form in the face of hardship. The story centers around twelve-year-old Maggie, a city girl whose life is turned upside down when her mother, Lillian, falls into a coma and is hospitalized in San Francisco. With no other family to turn to and her friends' family unable to care for her any longer, Maggie is placed in an orphanage—a truly heartbreaking turn of events.

Maggie recalls stories her mother once told her about her estranged grandfather, Ira. Lillian and Ira had parted ways long ago due to their stubborn natures. When Ira eventually comes forward to take Maggie in, she finds herself on his remote ranch in Montana—a world completely foreign to her. Faced with ranch chores and an entirely new way of life, Maggie feels overwhelmed and unsure.

As the story unfolds, the question lingers: Can Maggie and Ira bridge their emotional distance and learn to trust one another?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Maggie’s strength and optimism in the face of such upheaval are both moving and inspiring. The depiction of her journey from fear to courage is beautifully written. I was especially touched by the emotional depth of the story and found myself completely immersed—so much so that I ended up binge-reading it. The cover is also worth mentioning—thoughtful and reflective of the story’s spirit. Kudos to the author for crafting such a heartfelt narrative.

[booksforreaders25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twelve-year-old Maggie Stone lives with her mother, Lillian, in a cramped one-bedroom apartment in a working-class neighborhood. Whenever her mother had one of her episodes, it usually lasted no more than a day. But this time was different—Lillian had been unwell for a long time and had to be hospitalized.

With no other family to care for her and her father completely absent from her life, Maggie was placed in an orphanage. Her mother had always told her that her father wasn’t a good man and that it was better for Maggie not to know anything about him.

After spending a month at the orphanage, Maggie is visited by a man named Ira Stone, who introduces himself as her grandfather—someone she’s never met before. Ira takes her to Montana, where she begins a completely new life on his ranch, far removed from the world she once knew.

Maggie’s world has been turned upside down—from living with her mom, to staying at Cho’s house, then to the orphanage, and now finding herself on a ranch with a stranger who claims to be her grandfather.

To find out what happens next in Maggie’s journey, pick up this captivating novel. It's a well-paced, engaging read that held my attention from start to finish. The author does an excellent job of keeping readers hooked with each twist and turn. I highly recommend this book to fans of Young Adult fiction.

[_sassy_39 · Rating 5 out of 5]

'A Stone's Throw' written by the author Wayne Edwards is an intriguing read. The main character of the story is a twelve-year-old Maggie Stone. She lived with her mother Lillian Stone in San Francisco. When her mother was in a trance-blackout and was at hospital, Maggie was sent to an orphanage to live there. After spending one month at an orphanage, she was taken in by her grandfather. Maggie's grandfather Ira Stone took her to Montana on his ranch.

In the past twelve years of her life, Maggie had never seen her grandfather. She was told by her mother that her father wasn't a good man and it's better for Maggie to not know about him. Maggie's mother got pregnant with her when she was in high school. This made her grandfather angry and her mother left her home. Will Maggie believe Ira now?

This is a gripping story that kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed every bit of the story plot. The writing style of the author is nice and the language used in the book is lucid. This book is for Young Adult readers. They would be delighted to read this book. Great work done by Wayne in this book.

[Marcel Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone’s Throw” pulled me in from the very first chapter and didn’t let go. Maggie’s voice is so real—funny, raw, brave, and heartbreakingly honest. Watching her navigate a life that no child should have to—dealing with her mother’s mysterious illness, losing her home, and eventually being sent to an orphanage—was emotional, but never melodramatic. The writing is thoughtful and full of warmth, with characters that feel truly lived-in. Ira, her grandfather, and Cho, her best friend, especially stood out for me. What I loved most was how the book handles difficult themes—mental illness, family abandonment, coming of age—with both tenderness and grit. Maggie’s resilience is inspiring, and by the end, I was cheering for her every step of the way. It’s a coming-of-age story that doesn’t sugarcoat reality but leaves you with hope. Highly recommended for teens and adults.

[Bookreviews by Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone's Throw by Wayne Edwards is a touching story of love and courage. It follows the journey of a twelve-year-old girl called Maggie and the situation life throws at her.

Maggie's mother usually entered spells, where she would be in a deep sleep, but she usually came out of it after a few hours. But this time was different. She entered into a coma and was admitted into the hospital. Maggie's world turned upside down. She stayed with her best friend's family for a while before she was put in an orphanage. One day, her grandfather, whom she has never met, appeared at the orphanage and took her to his ranch to live with him. That marked the beginning of her new life.

This is a story of grief, strength, hope, and family. Edwards did a great job. The book has a warmth that envelops readers. The use of the first-person narrative allowed me to directly feel what Maggie felt. I was immersed in her thoughts and emotions. From the writing, it was clear that the voice was distinctly that of a child. It reflected a child's raw feelings of fear, innocence, and hope. The writing is honest. Readers of all ages could empathize with Maggie's story. Edwards' writing is vivid, and it felt as though I was standing beside Maggie and working with her on the ranch. The story follows Maggie's sorrowful situation and life on the ranch with her grandfather. Each scene is thoughtfully written with sensory details that allow readers to deeply sink into the story.

Maggie is an exceptional and dynamic main character. She showed strength and bravery for someone so young. We could see her struggles as she felt the weight of her mother's absence. As the book progresses, we could see her gradual growth. The trials she faces, both emotionally and physically, help shape her. The shift from Maggie's urban life to her grandfather's ranch adds a certain twist and complexity to the book. The book explores the relationship between Maggie and her grandfather. We could see it evolve. What I love about this is that it mirrors the complexities of real-life relationships.

This is a captivating book that everyone is sure to enjoy. I wholeheartedly rate it 5 out of 5 stars. There is nothing to dislike, and the book is exceptionally edited. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy heartwarming and entertaining books.

[Swati Tanu · Rating 4 out of 5]

What if my mom were to stay in this spell for weeks, or maybe even months? What will happen to our apartment? How long will I be able to stay with the Jeongs, and who would take care of me if I couldn’t continue to stay there?

What happens when life pulls you away from everything you know and drops you somewhere that feels completely foreign? That’s exactly the emotional journey at the heart of A Stone’s Throw by Wayne Edwards.

We meet Maggie Stone at one of the lowest points in her young life, sitting in a hospital while her mother, Lillian, slips deeper into a mysterious medical condition that leaves her unresponsive. From there, Maggie’s world shifts dramatically. She’s uprooted from San Francisco and sent to Montana to live with Ira Stone, the grandfather she barely knows.

And honestly? That transition isn’t warm or comforting at first. Watching Maggie navigate grief, anger, and loneliness, while adjusting to ranch life, new schools, and people like Brock Boyce, makes the story feel deeply personal rather than dramatic for the sake of it. Her bond with her best friend Cho, her complicated feelings toward Ira, and even the quiet presence of Dimwit (the dog) all ground the story in something real.

Wayne Edwards doesn’t rush Maggie’s growth. Instead, he lets it unfold through moments, fights at school, letters to her mom, small victories on the ranch, that slowly reshape her idea of family and belonging.

By the time Maggie begins to see the ranch as home, you’re left wondering: Is “home” really a place… or the people who stay when everything else falls apart?

You might like to wander through a few artistic journals — they’re full of sparks and surprises.

[Avi Dinsa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edwards’ novel unfolds with the quiet intensity of a life upended, following a twelve-year-old girl as she’s forced to navigate loss, displacement, and the uneasy hope of beginning again. When her mother falls into a coma in 1969 San Francisco, Maggie Stone is pushed from neighbor to orphanage to the doorstep of Ira Stone, the grandfather she has never met and only knows as the man her mother fled. The shift from cramped city streets to the stark expanse of an eastern Montana ranch is as jarring for Maggie as the silence of this hard-edged WWI veteran who suddenly becomes her guardian. Will Maggie learn to trust him?

The move from urban San Francisco to the isolated ranchlands of eastern Montana marks the novel’s most dramatic change of setting. Edwards draws Montana with vivid authenticity: the sweeping plains, the unpredictable weather, the rhythms of ranch life, and the rough-hewn practicality of those who inhabit it. He captures Maggie’s challenges with emotional precision—her loyalty, her isolation, and her unyielding spirit. Maggie and Ira’s fragile, awkward relationship forms the story’s core. Burdened by past hurts, they struggle at first, yet Maggie’s growing competence on the ranch and in town builds her confidence. The ending lands with a quiet, earned emotional weight. Lovers of quiet, emotionally rich coming-of-age stories will feel right at home. A quietly powerful story about the courage it takes to rebuild a life from its jagged edges, and how love—unexpected, imperfect, and hard-won—can take shape between two people learning to trust again.

[VanessaA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something about this book just quietly got to me. A Stone's Throw is a coming-of-age story set in 1969, following twelve-year-old Maggie Stone from a cramped San Francisco apartment to the wind-scoured plains of eastern Montana, after her mother falls into a mysterious coma and a grandfather she has never met shows up to collect her.
What the book does best is the slow construction of trust between Maggie and Ira. He is gruff, deeply tanned, more comfortable with cattle than conversation, and their early scenes together are genuinely awkward in the most human way. Edwards earns the bond properly, through shared chores and small arguments and moments of unexpected gentleness, so that by the time Ira expresses his feelings in a letter because he cannot find the words face to face, it lands exactly as hard as it should.
Maggie herself is a pleasure to follow. She is independent and emotionally intelligent without it ever feeling forced, and her worry over her mother, running quietly beneath everything else throughout the year, gives the story real weight.
The prose is plain and functional. This is not a book that dazzles with its sentences, and the middle stretch has a tendency to wander through episodic chapters that slow the momentum a little. But Edwards seems to know precisely what he is writing: a warm, honest story about unexpected family. It succeeds fully and generously on those terms.
The ending genuinely moved me. Lillian's gravestone, Ira's letter, and Maggie whispering to her mother that she is only a stone's throw away. I needed a quiet moment with that.

[Sakshi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone’s Throw by Wayne Edwards is a heartfelt novel that captures the pain of loss, the weight of family estrangement, and the healing power of unexpected bonds. At its heart is Maggie, a young girl thrust into uncertainty when her mother falls into a coma in 1969 San Francisco. Her world shifts dramatically when her grandfather, Ira Stone, steps into her life for the very first time.

The move from city life to a remote Montana ranch is not just a change in scenery—it’s a complete transformation. Maggie, raised in the comfort of familiar routines, is suddenly faced with livestock, chores, and the sharp eye of a grandfather who demands hard work but gives little warmth. At first, their relationship is defined by distance and unspoken tension.

Yet as Edwards unfolds their story, readers witness a subtle but powerful evolution. Maggie’s grit and determination not only earn Ira’s respect but also awaken something long-buried in him—a tenderness he thought lost with time and regret. Their bond becomes the quiet center of the novel.

With vivid landscapes, richly drawn characters, and a balance of realism and heart, A Stone’s Throw lingers long after the final page. It is both a coming-of-age tale and a story of reconciliation, leaving readers hopeful and deeply invested in Maggie’s future.

[Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

A radiant story of loss, adaptation, and growth - a path from city to country life

Montana author Wayne Edwards has served as a dentist, a banker, and a football coach, and now spends his retirement years writing. A prolific author, his books range from the PACER COULEE CHRONICLES about life and sport in rural Montana, to children’s books such as BUSTER BRIDGER MOUNTAIN BEAR, and now young adult fiction in this remarkable novel A STONE’S THROW. His life experiences and sincerity add credibility to his exceptionally fine character building in this coming of age novel.

Edwards blends many themes in this novel – loss of a parent leading to lack of a home and support of a sensitive child, the trauma of moving from a city to a country life with a grandfather distant from the child’s lost mother, adaptation to a new life, and transformation and healing and bonding. The story is related through the eyes and mind and heart of Maggie, the heroine, and throughout the novel the growth and development of this fine girl elicit admiration and love from the reader. This is one of the finest coming of age stories before the public today!

[Svens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one quietly got me. A San Francisco girl, twelve years old, her mom in a coma, suddenly uprooted to her estranged grandfather's cattle ranch in rural Montana. That premise alone could easily spiral into melodrama, but Wayne Edwards keeps it grounded and genuinely warm.
Maggie is such an easy character to root for. She is sharp, resilient, and a little stubborn in the best way. And Ira, the gruff WWI veteran grandfather she never knew, earns your affection slowly, which honestly made it land harder. The writing is clean and unhurried, told entirely from Maggie's perspective in a voice that feels like a real twelve-year-old actually lived this and is telling you about it. Pacing is steady throughout, though the middle stretches a little leisurely before the emotional payoff kicks in.
I kept thinking about how much this story trusts its reader. It never oversells the feelings. The ending is deeply satisfying without being wrapped too tight. If you enjoy found family stories, quiet coming-of-age journeys, or books that remind you people can surprise you, this one is absolutely worth your time.

[Goldenweek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maggie got me. She is twelve, frightened, uprooted, and carrying far more than any child should have to carry, but she is also observant, capable, and wonderfully alive on the page. Her move from San Francisco to her grandfather Ira’s Montana ranch could have been written as a simple contrast between city and country, but Wayne Edwards gives it much more care than that. What emerges instead is a story about learning how to belong when nothing around you feels familiar. Ira, especially, is drawn with a generosity I really appreciated. He is hard edged at first, yes, but never flat, and the gradual shift in how Maggie reads him is one of the most satisfying parts of the book.
If you have ever loved a story where a community slowly makes room for someone, this will likely speak to you. And tell me, are you the kind of reader who connects more with setting first or with character first? This book honestly gives you both.
I ended up talking about Maggie with a friend after finishing, especially the way her determination keeps opening doors for her even when life refuses to be easy. Would make a brilliant book club choice. The conversation writes itself.

[BooksHub · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a moving exploration of what it means to be displaced yet still find belonging. Wayne Edwards’ A Stone’s Throw introduces us to Maggie Stone, a twelve-year-old girl whose world is torn apart when her mother falls into a coma. From the bustling streets of San Francisco to the lonely stretches of Montana, Maggie’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and self-discovery.

What makes the novel stand out is not just Maggie’s story, but the striking contrast between her life with neighbors and an orphanage in the city, and her new life on her grandfather Ira’s rugged ranch. Ira, a hardened World War I veteran, is as unfamiliar with raising a child as Maggie is with cattle and barn chores, yet Edwards draws their slow transformation with warmth and authenticity.

By the end, readers feel not only Maggie’s strength but also the quiet shift in Ira’s heart. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place, reminding us that home isn’t always where we expect to find it—it’s where love and trust finally take root.

[Braclet · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone’s Throw is a tender, uplifting story about finding connection where you least expect it. Edwards beautifully contrasts city life with the rhythms of the grandfather's ranch, creating a vivid backdrop for a granddaughter and grandfather learning to understand one another. Their journey through hardship is authentic, never sentimental, and the growing sense of community resonates. With warmth, humor, and grace, this novel reminds you that love, resilience, and belonging are never far away. It stays with you long after the final page is turned. A truly heartwarming and realistic story. Recommended.

[Valery · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stone’s Throw is a tender, uplifting story about finding connection where you least expect it. Edwards beautifully contrasts city life with the rhythms of the grandfather's ranch, creating a vivid backdrop for a granddaughter and grandfather learning to understand one another. Their journey through hardship is authentic, never sentimental, and the growing sense of community resonates. With warmth, humor, and grace, this novel reminds you that love, resilience, and belonging are never far away. It stays with you long after the final page is turned. A truly heartwarming and realistic story. Recommended.

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Characterizations!

This book was a wonderful read for an adult. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and their stories. I was as frustrated as Maggie with Ira’s brusqueness at the beginning of their relationship. It was great to see this little girl tough things out and grow. And it was really good to see the old coot soften a bit and grow into his relationship with his granddaughter. The auxiliary characters - Cho, Whit and her family, Dr Rath, Brock - made her life changes so well rounded and interesting to read. I really hated to see the book end.

[Sharon Hoblitzell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adventures of a young girl uprooted to a Montana ranch.

How does one write about a twelve year old girl living on a vast Montana ranch? Wayne Edwards did, and it was one of the most interesting and best books I've read in some time. He wrote it as a YA book, but I'm 83 and I loved it. Some of it depicted my story and I was inundated with childhood memories. The book appeals to all ages and I know all will love it.

[Jodi Peretti · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a book to give your middle school daughter or granddaughter for Christmas, this is it! Your middle schooler will find this book entertaining, easy to read and relatable. The author not only gives an accurate glimpse of life on a Montana ranch and living in a small, close knit community, but also develops an heartwarming relationship between a teen and her grandfather.

[Carole Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twelve-year-old Maggie is sent from San Francisco to live with her estranged grandfather on a Montana ranch after her mother falls into a coma. Facing a new world of chores, rugged landscapes, and an initially tough grandfather, Maggie’s courage and determination help her find love, respect, and a sense of community.

[Lailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie’s story really touched me. Watching her go from a San Francisco girl to life on a Montana ranch with a gruff grandfather sounds both tough and heartwarming. It feels like a beautiful tale of resilience, family, and finding unexpected love in a new place.