The story follows Ugly, a gnome who transforms from a victim of harsh realities into a garden gnome, seeking refuge from his struggles. However, his new existence is fraught with challenges, as he must stand still through the night, confronting the dangers lurking in the garden's darkness. The narrative explores themes of survival, trust, and the moral dilemmas Ugly faces, raising questions about safety and the potential for crime in a world where gnomes are not just whimsical creatures but complex beings with dark experiences.
As kids, we all had passions—something we loved doing, shared with friends, and dreamed about. For Jay Atkinson, growing up in a small Massachusetts town, that passion was hockey. His lifelong fandom began when Bobby Orr scored the winning goal in the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals. In 1975, Atkinson joined the first Methuen Rangers varsity hockey team and has remained a rink rat ever since, still playing whenever he can. Twenty-five years later, he returns to his high school team as a volunteer assistant. The narrative follows the team, highlighting the temperamental star, the troubled winger, the lovesick goalie, and the rookie with a father battling cancer, as they make a desperate push for the state tournament. With emotionally vivid detail, the story unfolds in the rinks, schools, and homes of small-town America, showcasing friendships, loyalty, and the transformation of boys and girls into young adults. Atkinson also introduces his five-year-old son, Liam, who is just beginning to learn the game. Through scenes of kids playing under the moonlight and the trials of team tryouts, Atkinson captures the essence of adolescence, the bond between fathers and sons, and the meaning of returning home.
