Zoey has no idea what it means to be normal. Everything she touches has a taste, and her father’s identity is a town secret. Her sisters have their own issues. While it's a struggle for Celeste to connect with the world, Ruby, who has a flair for the dramatic, doesn't worry about anything. Orphaned at birth, the fourteen-year-old triplets live with their aunt and mark seasons by the annual migration of captivating birds. Despite an almost idyllic childhood grounded in Aunt Flory's home-cooked food and family values, Zoey struggles with her identity in a community where the Starling family is the subject of gossip. But secrets run deep in the small town, and the triplets aren't the only ones with something to hide. Zoey soon discovers that the truth isn't obvious and different perspectives shape the world. It's always how you choose to look at things that matters most.

Bugs, Weeds, and Water is created by Evangeline Greene, an eGlobal Creative Publishing signed author.

Bugs, Weeds, and Water

"Deal," Ruby said. "Justin overheard his mom in the hallway at school talking to Mr. Barton about us. He said Mr. Barton and his mother were both friends with our mother in high school and that they were sad we lost both our parents. Then Mr. Barton said Aunt Flory was a saint, giving her whole life to us, especially Celeste, and that he wished he could do more to help. He said he still feels guilty to this day." Ruby's eyes rounded. "Did you hear me? He feels guilty."


"Why?" Zoey asked. While some people in town viewed the Starling family with skepticism and curiosity, many others had gone out of their way to help them. Occasional gifts such as high chairs, bicycles, and winter jackets had appeared on the front porch over the years, especially when the girls were young. Aunt Flory was never offended. Her limited financial position was no secret and the cost of raising three children alone, not to mention Celeste's educational needs, was a matter of simple math.


Chapter 19