The Farewell Season

by Ann Herrick
(Eugene, Oregon US)

Genre - Young Adult
Pub. Date - May 25, 2011
Words - 43,500

Eric used to think he'd live forever, but not any more. Now football season is about to start, and Eric hopes he can live life normally again after the death of his father through his participation in the sport. He doesn't yet realize that he is angry with his father for dying.

Eric's refusal to truly face his grief results in unexpected feelings such as anger at his coach, increased fights with his sister, resentment of added responsibilities in helping his mother, and disillusionment with football. He even gets into a fight with his best friend, Rolf, who never fights anyone.

Eric rails against his mother's friendship with Paul Lindquist, his father's business partner, and he's suspicious of the guy in a black pickup who keeps showing up around town. He's also ticked that even his coach seems a little too interested in his mother.

It takes a special relationship with Glynnie, a new friend, who is dealing with the divorce of her parents to see that the only way to get through his grief is by grieving.

Reviews
Ann Herrick is a gifted writer that artfully takes the reader into the adolescent heart and mind. In her most recent young adult novel, The Farewell Season, viewpoint character Eric grapples with his grieving for his father. His struggles are poignant and bittersweet, with touches of humor. Ann Herrick is a master of portraying both the darkness and the light.

This story is also one that both fans of football and people who are not sports fans would enjoy.

Bravo, Ann Herrick!
~~Sydell Voeller, Author; Writing Instructor, The Long Ridge Writers Group


Don't most young people think they'll live forever? And when someone close to a teen dies, reality strikes and threatens his or her entire security system.

...Although The Farewell Season addresses a serious subject, it's not a depressing story but one of hope, friendship, understanding, and even humor. Facing our feelings makes us free.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend it highly. This is a timeless tale that will remain with readers to help them through rough times. Ann Herrick's stories never disappoint.
~~Betty Jo Schuler, Author and Writing Instructor, Writer's Digest University

Excerpt:
http://www.kindleboards.com/sample/?asin=B0051VU34G


Contact the Author through her web site:
http://annherrickauthor.com