Down East

Synopsis: The author follows five young girls through their formative high school years, sharing stories of growing up in remote Down East Maine. For those not familiar, this would be the farthest northeast county of Maine where lobster fishing dominates, and opportunities are limited. We are vicarious witnesses to academic and athletic success, domestic abuse and difficult home lives, and everything in between.

Review: This was an interesting slice of life for those who are familiar with teenage girls and their struggles, with the overlay of rural life. It seemed a bit like Hillbilly Elegy for the coastal folks. I thought the depiction of the young ladies was nuanced and generally sympathetic. It would have been easy to veer into caricature, and I was happy that this did not occur. Where I struggled with this book was understandng, what is the point the author is trying to make? It’s not really that political (phew), nor is it really answering the question of the growing gender achievement gap in American schools. It ended up feeling uncomfortably voyeuristic without deeper meaning.

Rating: 3/5

Recipe: There is nothing else to consider for this book except lobster! Lobster fishing plays such a large part of this story. This recipe from Bobby Flay is awesome, keeps lobster the star, and I love the smoky flavor from the grill.

1 pound unsalted butter

1/2 cup basil chiffonade

4 whole lobsters

2 tablespoons olive oil

1) Combine basil, butter, and salt and pepper to taste in a food processer. Blend until smooth. Transfer to a ramekin and refrigerate until needed.

2) Split the lobster in half lengthwise. Brush the bodies with olive oil and grill on low-medium heat for about 8 minutes.

3) Remove from the grill and slather with the basil butter.