A multi-faceted, multi-voiced debut novel that is at the same time personal and heartfelt—chronicling a family in flux, trying to find their individual and collective way—and also tells a larger, cultural story, one of our time, of how we live and hope and dream now.
A car accident has left young Anabelle Vincent in a coma-like state—unable to move or speak. Her mother spends her days and nights taking care of her frozen child, but Anabelle's father has left: unable to cope, broken under the responsibility of having been the car's driver. Then, one day, a visiting friend experiences what seems like a miracle. She thinks it's because of Anabelle. Word spreads. There are more visitors. More miracles. But is there a connection? And does it matter? Will Anabelle ever wake up, and if she does, will the miracles cease?
Andrew Roe has crafted an intricate story, told by Anabelle, her parents, and the visitors, who include neighbors, a priest, the affluent and the downtrodden. What becomes clear is that life's cruelties show no prejudice, but becoming a believer—in something, anything, even if you don't understand it—can bring salvation.
More than a novel about a family in crisis, THE MIRACLE GIRL tells a larger cultural story, of how we live and hope and dream.