Now and at the Hour

Book excerpt: For twelve-year-old Catholic school kid Albert Davidson, skateboarding in the hills and parks of San Francisco provides a sense of freedom and adventure to an otherwise cautious lifestyle. He's always been one to keep things steady and under tight control (even if he has to tell the occasional lie to do so). This careful approach to life is turned upside down when his mom is diagnosed with cancer. Even as Albert struggles to keep things normal by hanging out with his two best friends, his life continues to be full of surprises. While hiking one day near Lands End, he jumps into dangerous waters to rescue a dying shark-an act that is recorded by onlookers. Videos of the bold act soon go viral, and Albert becomes an internet celebrity overnight. His newfound popularity launches an unusual quest for healing, fueled by his mom's intensifying battle and Albert's determination to find a cure. A quieter adventure unfolds with the boys and a mysterious stranger, whose unsafe circumstances lead Albert to double down on his secrets and lies. With problems escalating all around him, will Albert find the remedies he so desperately seeks?