Ricochet River

In late adolescence, after teens finally learn to surf their raging hormones, questions about boxes begin to arise. Everything becomes a box: schools, families, even hometowns start to pinch and confine after a while; the restless teen spirit wants to break free from expectations and humdrum rhythms. In a small Oregon logging town in the '60s, Wade and Lorna are beginning to feel the pinch, even more confusing because Calamus is home, too. The Calamus River rushes through town, inspiring them with its freedom and strength. What would happen if they broke free and allowed their own surging currents to take them to another place? Lessons come through a transforming friendship with another teen--a Native American named Jesse, who knows a lot about the river and his own restless spirit. This is a magnificent, deeply felt novel about coming of age and finding a place in the world.