Past Tense — Ken Roberts

Thirteen-year-old Max has always looked forward to Halloween because that's when Elspeth the clown makes her mysterious annual appearance. No one knows who she is or where she comes from, but the whole neighborhood enjoys her magic tricks. One summer Elspeth suddenly appears and insists on performing for a very sick friend. Max, who has already lost his father, is sure this is not the right thing to do, a conclusion that leads him to confront confusing questions of mortality, loyalty, and compassion. �"Past Tense packs a surprising punch.” � -- Toronto Star