The story is faithfully narrated from the point of view of a granddaughter. Articulates her thoughts, feelings, fears and hopes, clearly and superbly. Right from the first pages there is a power and a mystery that makes it a page turner. The descriptions are great, the few characters in the story, only 5, all likeable but realistically fallable. The location is dramatic and vividly described. There's a wonderful adventure at the climax but a mystery that never gets solved. Just no real answers about her grandfather. It never shies away from talking about bereavement The story is heavily steeped in swimming and art. I'm sufficiently into swimming for this too hold me. I've recommended to my 10 year old but know he'll need to talk to me about it.