by Janet Barton

The Boathouse is the story of 13-year old Traci Johannson's encounter with an angel. It is early September, and as she begins her eighth grade year at East Harbor Junior High, Traci's life is complicated by the surprising good fortune of being chosen by 'cool' Jackie Jonas as her new best friend. Happiest on the soccer field, science lab, sailing her vintage Blue Jay across Long Island Sound or working as a “puppy-walker”, Traci’s new friendship quickly embroils her in mystery, romance and unexpected adventure.

Set among famous landmarks of Cold Spring Harbor and nearby Manhattan, The Boathouse is a funny, fast-moving tale of Traci’s quest for romance, excitement, and self-discovery. From the safety of home, Traci’s journey leads her on a midnight chase across the harbor, onto the glamorous set of TV soap opera, and with nearly fatal consequences, to an unforgettable night at Shea Stadium for the sold-out Diamond Jelly concert. A quest for adventure, independence and self-knowledge, Traci’s story is most importantly, an uplifting reaffirmation of the reality of an absolute Good and the power of self-determination.