Tumble and Blue by Cassie Beasley*

For two hundred years the Montgomery family has lived under a curse.  Apparently under a blood sickle moon Walcott Montgomery and a woman named Almira LaFayette tried to change their destinies. The problem was only one could have the vial.  They argue and forevermore curse their families.
Two hundred years later their descendants meet-Blue-destined to lose and Tumble (Lily) who tries to be a hero in every situation.  Can the two break the curse even if it means venturing into the Okefenokee swamp where Munch, the alligator lurks, controlling their destiny?
I loved Blue's quirky extended family.
Ms. Beasley addresses some serious issues here and slowly reveals their cause and possible resolutions (abandonment, guilt over a death, confidence in one's uniqueness).
The general mood and feeling of the book reminded me of Kate DiCamillo's Because of Winn Dixie. 
Some buzz on blogs that this book may be a contender for a Newbery Honor award this year (silver). 
*Highly recommend.
-Borrowed from the library.