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17 reviews

Whistling In the Dark

by Lesley Kagen

Published: 2007-05-01
Paperback : 336 pages

55 members reading this now
33 clubs reading this now
22 members have read this book

Recommended to book clubs by 16 of 17 members

No other editions available.

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Introduction

It was the summer on Vliet Street when we all started locking our doors...

Sally O'Malley made a promise to her daddy before he died. She swore she'd look after her sister, Troo. Keep her safe. But like her Granny always said-actions speak louder than words. Now, during the summer of 1959, the girls' mother is hospitalized, their stepfather has abandoned them for a six pack, and their big sister, Nell, is too busy making out with her boyfriend to notice that Sally and Troo are on the Loose. And so is a murderer and molester.

Highly imaginative Sally is pretty sure of two things. Who the killer is. And that she's next on his list. Now she has no choice but to protect herself and Troo as best she can, relying on her own courage and the kindness of her neighbors.

Editorial Review

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Excerpt

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Discussion Questions

Suggested by Members

18. While the story of growing up in 1959 seems fun there was also an undertone of abuse. The murderer, the alcoholic stepfather, the perverted neighbor boy. Do you feel that times back then were really better than now?

by RGDanning (see profile) 09/15/10

Who was your favorite character and why?

by chkahn12 (see profile) 05/16/10

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Notes From the Author to the Bookclub

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Book Club Recommendations

Recommended to book clubs by 16 of 17 members.

Whistling in the Dark

by ckurbonov (see profile) 04/28/11

The Washington Park library in Milwaukee has many historical pictures of the area profiled in the book. This would make an interesting outing.

tasty treats

by crystalbooks (see profile) 04/28/11

Serve blond brownies (Sally's favorite dessert), Olvatine (their favorite drink), any kind of cookie (in deference to the local factory mentioned), or black bottom pie (also mentioned).

Member Reviews

Overall rating:

by Kathleen M. (see profile) 08/18/17

by Candace P. (see profile) 02/28/17

"Whistling in the Dark"by Nancy B. (see profile) 10/16/14

Half of our group lived in the Milwaukee area at some time and easily could picture the Milwaukee Zoo and it's surrounding neighborhood; remembering the freedom of the 50'-60's compared to t... (read more)

"whistling in the dark"by Tia L. (see profile) 11/23/11

A really good read I couldn't put this book down.

"Whistling in the Dark"by Carolyn K. (see profile) 04/28/11

This is a book which is set in Milwaukee and refers to familiar landmarks past and present. This is really interesting. The voice is of a 10 year old girl which is cute and funny at times but grated on... (read more)

"you won't be disappointed"by Crystal S. (see profile) 04/28/11

This was a fun, engaging read. At only 336 pages, it's a easy length to finish quickly, which you'll want to do!
Set in 1959 in Milwaukee and told from the viewpoint of a 10 year-old girl,
... (read more)

"sisters"by cindi w. (see profile) 04/21/11

The relationship between the sisters was not believable. Not many children would be so selfless and "protect" another sibling that way.

p.s. I thought book club was next Wednesday.

"The characters are brilliant!"by Heidi E. (see profile) 03/29/11

"Very Good!"by Alison B. (see profile) 02/19/11

Our whole book club loved this book. It was a quick, easy read, but was touching and heart-warming at the same time. Lovely book!

"Whistling in the Dark"by Rose D. (see profile) 09/15/10

Being from Milwaukee I especially enjoyed this book. It felt like I was transported back to my own childhood.
Half way through I tried to read slower just to make the story last longer.

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