Small Tale of Big Dysfunction

Wayne, the third boy of four, grew up in "the Goulds", a Newfoundland neighborhood many aspired to leave. With parents who were intelligent but flawed and perpetually short on funds, the family was always struggling to stay afloat. Factor in Wayne's mysterious ailment(s)--coughing uncontrollably, unable to keep food down, stunted growth, weakness--and life was even more challenging, especially for him. His quirky grandma, Lucy, was his primary companion, guide and all-around resource for much of his childhood. Funny at times but often frustrating, you keep having to remind yourself that he does, in fact, survive his parents' questionable choices and the childhood that gave him.