Dare, almost 16, is big, tough, street-wise kid, always in trouble at school and around the town of Crossing, Alberta. His 12-year-old brother, Ty, is just the opposite: quiet, studious, at the head of his class.
When their grandmother dies, the two are faced with the prospect of going to a foster home - until Laura McConnell, a part-time teacher, invites them to her ranch.
If it weren't for Ty, Dare would be long gone... a desire that intensifies into white-hot rage as he clashes with Laura and faces the pain of his past.
Blue Moon is Marilyn Halvorson's second book in the Orca Soundings series. Bull Rider was an ALA Quick Pick nominee. When she is not caring for cattle on her ranch, Marilyn spends her time writing.
I haven't read this book since I was a teen, and it is still one of my faves. It was really interesting to read as an adult, especially since as an adult I have a better understanding of some of the events that take place.
A great story about a two brothers that went through a terrible tragedy as young children. The oldest, Dare, is simply trying to get through life without letting anybody too close, even his brother. When their Gran dies they are sent to live with Laura, a woman just as tough as Dare thinks he is.
4.75 stars, im kind of surpised i found such a good book thats is very unknown from the reviews. this book is a lot like The Outsiders which I loved. I wished it was a bit longer but other than that its a really good book
I love this book! I liked seeing Dare’s character evolve throughout the book. I also liked the close family relationship Dare has with his younger brother.
A 2018 Popsugar Reading Challenge // a book by a local author //
*3.5
This books is one of the books we have to read for english class. Our teacher likes us to read more local books and this book is definitely one. It is written by an Albertan teacher & rancher. The book is about Dare, the main character who is haunted by his demons, trauma and guilt. I love how simple yet impact-fully moving it is. Definitely a good read. (╹◡╹)
Cross-posted from my blog where there's more information on where I got my copy and links and everything.
This is set in Alberta and that was kind of neat. I'm not from Alberta or have ever been there, but I enjoy reading about different places in Canada. There's something that's fun about reading about places in your country, especially when a lot of books are US-centred. You've probably noticed that I have a soft-spot for even not very good Canadian books because they are Canadian. Now, the book itself is... fine. It's not the most amazing thing in the world, but it was fine.
It is a touch dated in the details like an AC/DC concert in Calgary being the cool thing for teenagers to do, but it is also kind of dated in its tropes. It kind of reads like something a teacher would make you read in like grade eight to make you learn something. This would make a good, like, Lifetime inspirational movie. Like the appeal of an emotional story of two brothers, one of whom isn't making the best choices, going to live with a pretty awesome woman who pushes them to be their best ad how they all learn to love each other is definitely there.
The writing is good, and in researching the author a bit, I think I've actually read another of her newer books. I think she only has upwards to go when it comes to the quality of the writing. I can honestly say I enjoyed this one. The questions I have to ask myself are, would I read this again, and am I going to keep it? Those answers are linked in - no, I would probably not read it again, and because of that, I'll probably be passing it along. My copy is also in pretty rough condition, so it's not like I'm oohing and awwing over the prettiness. Fly free, little bird.
Props to this cover, though, for actually depicting a scene in the book. I like when that happens. I do not personally think I would re-purchase this, but if this appeals to you, you can buy a new edition released in 2014. Cover to the right. Nice new cover.
Words can not describe my love for this book. After reading Let it Go and Nobody Said it Would be Easy I had high expectations for Dare. Halvorson exceeded those expectations.
Dare is a troublemaker, but his kid brother? Ty is a good kid, straight A's and everything. What happens when they're Grandma dies? Off to live with Laura, a substitute teacher and ranch owner. Dare learns the hard way that he needs to stop running, and to face his problems.
This book is inspirational and altogether amazing. A good read for just about anyone.
One of my favourite books as a teenager. I haven't read this book in over ten years but I remember scenes and passages like I read it yesterday. I would highly recommend this book.