Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5+++***I LOVED this book! I was absolutely captivated by Kya, the main character, who lives a solitary life amidst the swamp flora and fauna on the North Carolina coast. The book begins with a love story, her mother and father. But the marriage has deteriorated and at the age of ten, abandoned by her mother, discarded by her father, siblings and every one she ever loved, Kya merges with the marsh, the only mother she has left. Growing up as much a part of the land as the trees, the insects and the birds, she is closer to nature than to other human beings. Now a young adult she is nothing but a whisper to the people in town, the "marsh girl." When a local football legend is found dead on her island rumors that have circulated for years lead to her arrest as the accused. This is an authentic and intellectual display of a strong leading female character and her story of survival.

The author is a wildlife scientist and award winning nonfiction nature writer. She has written a wonderful debut novel with vivid descriptions, well-developed characters, and moving poetry. "The writing is beautiful with a lyrical rhythm that sways the reader like the gentle rocking of a boat." And it has a delightful, unforgettable ending!

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