When grieving widower Gus, watching a television program, spots the head of what might be a very special carousel horse peeking from a dusty crate, he’s instantly transported back to the moment he proposed to his loved wife – with her perched on that horse.
From this small beginning a grand project slowly takes shape: restoring the long-forgotten carousel that once brought joy, laughter, and romance to the now-dying town of Shade Tree.
The members of the Monday Afternoon Grief Group (nicknamed the Maggies) which Gus’s caring and interfering daughter has pushed him to attend decide to tackle the ambitious undertaking.
Each member of the group carries their own unique burden of loss and not all are eager to confront it. Or to get involved in the project. But under the enthusiastic guidance of Buck, a visionary realtor with big ideas for the town, they gradually rally behind him.
While Buck dreams of giving Shade Tree a second chance, none of the Maggies anticipates the unexpected ways the carousel will change their own lives. As the restoration unfolds, and the many obstacles have to be confronted, so the group members’ personal journeys of healing and of rediscovering what’s important also evolve.
A Carousel for Shade Tree gently explores grief, resilience, and the quiet courage it takes to move forward. This heartfelt and uplifting small-town tale reminds us there is always room for hope, and for new beginnings. Well done, Ms Small.
Find A Carousel for Shade Tree
US here.
UK here.
More reviews here and my monthly round up of what I’ve read here.