Abandoned at Juniper Bay

About the Book

Abandoned at Juniper Bay faces the consequences of abuse and alcoholism head-on, but does not preach or present quick and easy fixes. In this contemporary novel, thirteen-year-old Todd, his eleven-year-old sister and their young brother Jason find themselves abandoned by their alcoholic dad. "Hanging out" at Grandpa's old cabin without any adults has seemed exciting to Todd in his daydreams; but he couldn't know that it would be many days before their father would arrive. And Todd could not foresee how they would be forced to take new responsibility for their own survival.

But it is his growing fear and anxiety about their Dad's drinking that fuels his desire to win a commitment from Laura and Jason to work together to take action. The head-high ferns, soft mists, Island Festival, and soundless beauty of the ocean-bottom should make the days memorable. But picking strawberries in the hot sun to earn enough money for hotdogs, running from wild dogs, and keeping the secret of being on their own, results in a growing tension among the kids. Trust and family are the fundamental themes in this story.

About the Author

Joyce Watford Delbridge has collected and contributed two regional anthologies: Ferry Tales From Puget Sound and Northwest Ferry Tales, and co-edited Alaskan Ferry Tales for Children. More than 30 years of teaching elementary age children has given her insight into childrens' loyalties, secret desires and courage. She has lived for many years on the waterfront of an island in the Pacific Northwest and has a deep love and respect for the mysteries of the seashore.