When dreamer and storyteller Clem Harding turns 13, he wants a dog. What he does not want is to follow his father and grandfather and work in the lead mine. But his grandfather's and his sister's medical conditions leave the family no choice. Money is tight and they need Clem's income. His dad proudly tells him that "we're part of the land, part of the Ozark Mountains themselves." In answer, Clem tries for a joke: "I'd rather be part of Wappapello Lake, fishing for crappie."
He'd also rather be playing fetch with the dog he longs for. But his father won't give in. Although a dog does find his way into their hearts and home, Clem must head to the mine.
With encouragement from his sister, a supportive teacher, and schoolmate Lindy, Clem makes up stories to block out the misery below ground. Lindy advises, "If I had to work the mines, like you? Down deep dark?... Boy, I'd whistle all day long." Living with an abusive father who forces her into his moonshine business, she understands his sadness, his despair. The unfolding friendship between Clem and Lindy is one of the most unexpected and sweetest parts of this short novel.
Based on and inspired by a true story of destruction from the fierce Tri-State Tornado of 1925, Susan Hill Long's debut novel Whistle in the Dark, is beautifully crafted historical fiction and will appeal to mature readers of all ages.
