Barbara Elliott Carpenter

Starlight, Starbright. . . Barbara Elliott Carpenter

Humor, mystery, adventure, tragedy, and love are all elements in the coming-of-age story of Sissy Bannister, a feisty, precocious girl, who meets life in a new town and a new school head-on. The pages are filled with stories of the diverse citizens that live in Redbud Grove, many of whom love, and are loved by, Sissy. Each chapter highlights different people, good and bad, old and young, rich and poor, that contribute to her education and help to mold the character of the strong, independent woman Sissy becomes. Watch Sissy as she comes to terms with economic differences among the people in her town. Smile at her wonder when she listens to adults discussing topics that leave her puzzled and looking for answers. Laugh aloud at the discoveries she makes when she and her friends peek through the window of a witch's house. Cry with her at the loss of an unlikely friend. Share Sissy's rage at the tragedy that befalls another 'new girl', who becomes one of Sissy's best friends. Follow Sissy as she learns that small towns are not immune from bigotry, prejudice, bullies or injustice. Shake your head at her daring as she experiences a dangerous first crush, an intoxicating first kiss, and encounters life in all its fullness inside the boundaries and the rich, prairie outskirts of her little town, Redbud Grove. STARLIGHT, STARBRIGHT-- covers the first fourteen-and-a-half years of Sissy Bannister's life. Watch for the sequel, I WISH I MAY, I WISH, I MIGHT, that continues the saga of Sissy into adulthood, and on to what was written for her in the stars she so-loved to watch.