Incredible Debut Novel, "How to Dance on the Moon" by Laura Ginter

Jan. 25, 2014 - PRLog -- An emotional debut novel about a unique woman with a prophetic gift.

Thinking back to her childhood is sometimes painful, Bootie Baxter’s “gift” often feels like a curse. Although it’s helpful at times, she doesn’t purposefully look into the lives of others; and sometimes, although she can easily interpret moods, she keeps her visions and thoughts to herself. Seeing things that others cannot is exhausting. Bootie values her family, and sometimes resents herself for the theatrics that seem to follow her everywhere; although her family sees her as quirky and always lovable.

When a prophetic vision surrounding her niece, Grace, threatens—she worries that she might lose her. She finds within herself that “a rage that came from a lifetime of loneliness and relentless guilt and repressed anger” gives her the strength that she need to save Grace and keep her family structure solid. It’s not until Bootie receives this vision that she begins to understand her place in the universe and the purpose of her prophetic gift. While surrounded by a particular moment of anger and confusion, Bootie looks to the full moon and remembers a poem about a rabbit that attained immorality with a selfless act. This rabbit’s image is now impressed forever on the moonscape. Bootie reflects on the words of that poem: “Dancing rabbit on the moon, I might be up there with you soon.”

This is a story where a middle-aged woman confronts the confusion of life and unearthing one’s purpose. Bootie’s life has been controversial, and she often allows herself to become bitter; How to Dance on the Moon chronicles her emotional journey toward self-forgiveness and highlights her exceptionality. It also teeters on coming-of-age themes. Ginter’s writing is compelling and clear—perfect for the audience it’s meant for. Universal readers captivated by introspective women’s fiction will fall in love with this novel.

Perhaps Bootie Baxter will dance exceptionally well on the moon?