A Terrible Secret

Deborah Dowson is a Canadian children’s librarian in North Wales,
Pennsylvania.

Growing up on Iberville Street in Montreal may have contributed somewhat
to 16-year-old Maggie Alexander’s tough attitude and cynical view of
life. However, there is something much more troubling in her past that
explains her disillusionment with life. Maggie’s outbursts of grief
and anger seem excessive until the traumatic story of her younger
brother’s death slowly comes to light. Having parents who can barely
cope with life themselves and a brother who is caught up in the drug
world, Maggie struggles alone with her feelings of grief, anger, fear,
and guilt. Understandably, she has created a tough persona to protect
herself from the tragedies in her life, but at heart Maggie is a caring
and sensitive girl. When she eventually begins to trust her feelings and
allows herself to experience romantic love for the first time, she is
able to release her secret as well as the fear and guilt she has held
for so long.

Ginette Anfousse’s laconic style lends the perfect voice to
Maggie’s reticent character. The writing is tough and spare like the
world Maggie inhabits, but it is also tender and touching without
becoming sentimental. Though the translation seems a little stiff at
times, the plot’s suspense and the honesty of the characterization
will hold even the most reluctant reader’s attention. This young-adult
novel is easy to read and has an intense emotional appeal. Recommended.