Could Use Some Editing

Imagine being in your elder years and suddenly being thrust into the role of guardian of a 10 year old, distant relative. That's the premise of this book. Through no fault of his own, this poor kid needs someplace to live, and the sometimes-crusty great uncle, Noah, is the only option outside of foster care. The unlikely duo embarks on a trip to France, the place of Noah's birth and very early childhood. While there, he digs up information on his mom, esoteric at best and suspicious at other times. Why did she voluntarily send her son to the U.S. and stay behind during WWII? Noah suspects the worst, and bravely pushes on to find out if he is right. The relationship between the two characters was charming and engaging, but the book spent much of its time in idle. Coulda chopped out 100 pages, easily, and had the same story.