Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/194865
ne Books thwarts opportunities for her family. The story will fuel lively discussions across the North Shore and beyond. McGarry Morris believes her latest endeavor is popular with book groups because, "It explores important issues, like the search for the truth—a universal experience— whether the truth is moral, personal, or perceived." This coming-of-age novel also reflects the theme of innocence lost, of how "powerless children are when no one listens to them or believes them," the author explains. With respect to the comparison of Nellie to Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird, McGarry Morris wonders if it's because there are too few strong female characters in novels. "We often describe strong girls as 'spunky'—but we never describe boys that way, do we?" Raised in Vermont, McGarry Morris has lived in Andover for most of her life. "Writing is the place I go to get peace and satisfaction," she says of her work. "I am always writing. I'm afraid if I stop, the 'flame' will go out." Happy to live in a close-knit community that's not far from the ocean, the literary ace adds, "We've got it all here on the North Shore." —By Susan Soule Shulins Novel Nosh Ready to dive into McGarry Morris's latest? Meld the taste of the text and the mood of the food at your next book club meeting with a little something sweet for the literary palate. Cookie Master: Deb Kaneb of Batter Up Bakery shows off her Light from a Distant Star-themed cookies. Deb Kaneb, owner of Batter Up Bakery in Manchester-by-the-Sea, has been in the same book group for 17 years. "Food and the book [we're reading] are equal highlights of our meetings." Kaneb suggests pairing star-shaped butter cookies with Light from a Distant Star. Readers can order these scrumptious, handcrafted cookies from Batter Up Bakery (batterupbakery.com), or use their own favorite recipes, star-shaped cookie cutters, and decorating ideas. Hot apple cider on a chilly night makes a cozy companion to cookies. Simply pour six cups of apple Wood Works cider into a pot or microwave-safe container and heat. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract and six ounces Ryan & Wood's Doug Ryan. of bourbon (if desired), ladle into six mugs and top each with whipped cream and a fresh cinnamon stick. Then, sit back, snack, sip, and let the story sweep you away! 54 nshoremag.com November 2013 Nov13 MaryMorris.indd 54 9/19/13 2:47 PM