This is a beautifully written story of a young girl and her family, struggling to deal with the things life has thrown at them.  In the midst of this turmoil, they are living in an atmosphere of paradise, surrounded by clear blue water and gorgeous sea glass.  

On the Mendocino coast is a small fishing town known for it’s beautiful sea glass.  This is the home of Abalone, a gorgeous redheaded teenager, who has immersed herself into a pretend world of mermaids.  She is an expert diver who practically lives in a wet-suit. Abalone has not spoken since her mother died, but her story is much more complicated than that, it is about creating a world in which she can live.  A world that provides her with a sense of safety. The story is full of twists and tangles as the secrets of each family member is brought to the surface when Abalone begins a relationship with a boy her age.

Stein has done a terrific job of creating her characters and weaving their development with the revelation of their secrets.  I would be surprised if you can put the book down.