Reviews of Pocketful of Names

A Book Sense 76 Selection, June 2005

“Coomer creates characters as rough and as changing as the Maine coast itself in this novel of solitude interrupted, unexpected emotions, and intrigue. The ups and downs of the inhabitants and visitors to this island off the coast of Maine will keep the reader riveted until the last page. Perfect literary summer reading!” —Meganne Fabrega, RiverRun Bookstore, Portsmouth, NH

“Coomer is a graceful writer…conveying natural beauty and emotional turmoil with equal polish.” —Publishers Weekly

“The rhythms of coastal life weave in and out of the family relationships and personal dramas in this enjoyable tale.” —Library Journal

“Joe Coomer is that rare writer who subtly seduces the reader…We are drawn in, focused, taken by the tale.” —Maine Sunday Telegram

“Beautifully written and atmospheric, with a bit of Coomer’s trademark humor, Pocketful of Names will sweep you up and leave you thinking.” —Portsmouth Herald (NH)

“Readers drawn to quirky stories about loners, eccentrics, family secrets, odd coincidences, heartwarming moments (both comic and tragic) and a heavy dose of metaphor find Coomer.” —Bangor Daily News (ME)

“Pocketful of Names has a spellbinding beginning, and the book only gets better as it goes on.” —Ellsworth American (ME)

“[Coomer] lovingly creates characters that are infused with presence, who live in places that linger long in memory.” —The Sanford Herald (NC)

“Coomer infuses Pocketful of Names with humor and charm.” —Daily Republic (CA)

“Serious, beautifully written literature…Surprising and satisfying.” —Quad-City Times (IA)