When his single father must go away on business, Andrew O'Brien is forced to spend the summer with his grandfather on the shores of Cape Cod. He barely knows his grandfather and has a looming sense that this summer vacation will be a nightmare. After all, how could a young boy possibly survive in a tiny seaside cottage with a tired, old man? Believing this plan is cruel and unfair, Andy quickly vows to make the summer a miserable one for everyone. What Andy does not realize, however, is that his grandfather has plans of his own. It turns out "Grampy" is much stronger, stubborn, and far more cunning than Andy gives him credit for. Has Andy finally met his match? If Grampy has his way, Andy's summer at the sea shack will be one that changes the boy's life forever. Children and adults alike will embrace The Sea Shack as a touching story that strikes at their hearts with power and warmth, along with a healthy dose of humor. Through careful writing and storytelling, Mark McNulty keeps the reader entertained through every chapter while conveying ideals such as respect, loyalty, sacrifice, and perseverance.

His years of experience as an elementary school teacher come shining though in many aspects of this book. Andy's story is one that celebrates the timeless bond of family, filled with strong, positive role models and lessons that apply to everyday life. Appropriate for readers in 3rd grade and above. Older students and adults will appreciate some of the story's deeper themes and hidden meanings more readily. This book is also an excellent choice for a child to read with a parent or grandparent, as it lends itself easily to discussion and analysis between generations of family.