Rosetown by Cynthia Rylant*

Rosetown, Indiana is a stable, comforting town, even during the 1970's.  Nine year old Flora loves its dependability.  When her parents separate, her dog dies and her fourth grade assignments overwhelm, the reliable town and its inhabitants (especially a new friend) help her endure the changes. 
Ms. Rylant really develops the characters and setting.  Readers who love action filled plots may not enjoy this book.  Yet Ms. Rylant's superb writing may just draw them into Flora's life and Rosetown.  I have found myself thinking about this book and the lovely town days after reading.
*Highly recommend.
-Borrowed from the library.
Points to discuss: martial issues/separation; 1970's (environmental movement vs. pesticides and saving endangered species)