What is the truth?

In Annie Barrows' new book, The Truth According to Us, family secrets are explored. The main narrator is Willa Romeyn, 12 years old. We also hear from Layla Beck who is boarding with Willa's family while writing a town history in the hot summer of 1938. Layla has been sent by the WPA, unwillingly, and wonders why the Romeyns, who were once a substantial family have fallen so low. We hear Willa's worries about her charming but irresponsible father and what family secrets he holds. As Layla interviews people in town everyone has a version of the truth. We come to care about these characters and feel affection for them. Warm and touching, this is a good summer read. ML