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Grand Opening
Grand Opening
Author: Jon Hassler
Twelve-year old Brendan tells the story, set in 1944-45, that begins with his parents' decision to buy a run-down grocery store in a tiny Minnesota town. What they discover about small town idealism, bigotry, and good old American values will change them and the town forever.... — "A writer good enough to restore your faith in fiction." — THE NEW ...  more »
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ISBN-13: 9780345410177
ISBN-10: 0345410173
Publication Date: 8/27/1996
Pages: 336
Rating:
  • Currently 4.1/5 Stars.
 14

4.1 stars, based on 14 ratings
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Book Type: Paperback
Other Versions: Hardcover
Reviews: Member | Amazon | Write a Review

Top Member Book Reviews

reviewed Grand Opening on
Helpful Score: 2
A good read about life in the Midwest where a hopeful family in the innocent 1940s follows their American dream.
reviewed Grand Opening on + 194 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Small town cynicism and human frailties characterize this 1944 Minnesota family story. A sensitive 12 year old boy and a womanizing grandfather dominate the scene while they become involved in small town life new to them...This is a well-written novel with lots of colorful characters the reader can identify...You'll find yourself remembering people you want to remember and others you want to forget.
Gyp avatar reviewed Grand Opening on + 7 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Fantastic book. Great characters. I've read everything by Hassler and this is his best IMO, with 'North of Hope' coming in a close second.
schwip avatar reviewed Grand Opening on + 49 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Wow, what an incredible study of human character. This book had me glued to it and finished it in one day, which is unlike me. What drew me to this book at first was the fact that it was written and takes place in MN where I live. Once started, the author caught me with an easily readable style but more than that, his truthful interpretaion of small town MN live and his astutement in developing his characters. This book offers lessons in grief, despair, the bad and the good of the human spirit. It leaves you with a heartfelt message that leaves a lingering impression.
reviewed Grand Opening on + 8 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Very good book showing a slice of life in America in the 1940's. Really enjoyed.
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reviewed Grand Opening on + 628 more book reviews
Tho the book is well written, I fond it terribly depressing. All the gossip and bigotry and religious wars in this small town were exhausting.
mzakzoe avatar reviewed Grand Opening on + 8 more book reviews
Enjoyable easy read. Midwest small town in the early 1940's. A good picutre of the biases and factions present in any town, any age. Characters are beleivable, and lovable or easy to dislike.


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