Defiance

By Valerie Hobbs
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Noelle

Toby and his parents are at a rented cottage for the summer and Toby is enjoying doing regular things an 11 year old would do. But he has a secret. Toby's cancer is coming back and he has decided he is not telling his parents and he is not going back to the Children's Hospital for treatment. At least, that is his decision until he meets Pearl, a spunky old woman living on a small farm nearby. Pearl's cow Blossom becomes the reason that Pearl and Toby meet and become friends, and doing what is best for Blossom helps both of them realize what is best for themselves. Told with warmth, honesty and poetry, this is ultimately a story about understanding your own destiny and making choices. An enjoyable and meaningful read.