Foghorn Passage

E. Jane Philipps is the science librarian in the Biology Library at
Queen’s University.

In Foghorn Passage, Alison Lohans presents a moving and sensitively
drawn portrait of a young woman’s struggle to come to terms with her
father’s death from cancer. The narrative centres on 16-year-old
Samantha Franklin’s developing relationship with a talented young
violinist, who is paraplegic as a result of a car accident. Vivid and
painful memories of her father’s illness provide Samantha with the
understanding and will to persist in the difficult process of helping
Matt Bruckner work through his bitterness and alienation. With deft
characterization, a well-conceived plot, and natural dialogue, Lohans
paints a believable and involving picture of family and social life, and
offers an insightful examination of the grieving process. Recommended.