Two things are hard for Joel Gustafson to cope with: not knowing why, and not being able to do anything about it. Joel and his father live in a small town in cold northern Sweden. Joel’s father was once a sailor who lived by the sea. Joel’s mother once lived with them. Joel’s father abandoned the sea. Joel’s mother abandoned Joel and his father. While looking out his window late one misty night, Joel sees a lonely dog in the street. He spots the animal again and begins sneaking out night after night, trying to find it. During these nocturnal outings, Joel discovers aspects of his life he has never imagined. A Bridge to the Stars is a magical mystery that leaves the reader spellbound and full of hope for Joel and his father’s future.