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When We Were Saints

Published
Oct 2003
Main Genre
General Fiction General Fiction
Rating
Pages
304

About This Book

The National Book Award–winning author "will hold readers rapt . . . for her exploration of the role of religion and faith in coming of age" (Publishers Weekly, starred review).


Archibald Caswell could never please his domineering granddaddy Silas. Now with Granddaddy gone, Archie finds himself lost, confused, and wondering what his grandfather could have possibly meant by his dying words: "Young man, you are a saint!"



Clare Simpson knows exactly what Silas meant. She convinces Archie to dedicate his life to God, give up his possessions, steal his granddaddy's truck, and head north to the Cloisters in New York, where she and Archie secretly live after museum hours. For Clare the journey is a return to the only place where she has felt happy and loved. For Archie, the pilgrimage leads him to a closer relationship with God—and a burning desire for home.



Includes a reader's guide and an interview with the author.



"Nolan returns to familiar terrain, where mysticism intersects madness, in this absorbing look at what happens when religion moves to center stage in two teenagers' lives." —Booklist


"Nolan (Dancing on the Edge) poses thought-provoking questions about religious fervor, faith and reason in this mysterious tale of two lost teens." —Publishers Weekly (starred review)



"Nolan demonstrates again that she is a masterful storyteller . . . Highly recommended." —VOYA (5Q—highest rating)



"This powerfully written novel is outstanding . . . scary, gripping, and gratifying." —School Library Journal

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Mar 2005 Harcourt ISBN 0152053220
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Hardcover

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Oct 2003 Harcourt ISBN 0152163719
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Mar 2005 Turtleback Books ISBN 0606334211
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Mar 2005 Perfection Learning ISBN 0756952492
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Mar 2005 Harcourt ISBN 0547351321
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Mar 2005 Houghton Mifflin ISBN B003UV8ZSK
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