America almost disintegrated during Vietnam. Candles in the Rain captures that tension. In its pages we see brightly colored butterflies escaping their cocoon, going off tangentially in totally different directions. Superficially, the heroes are Patrick Kearney and his James Dean-like cousin, Frank McAllister. The story progresses through a series of adventures the boys have and the focus is on them, especially Patrickas refusal to be drafted. The story introduces the beautiful Maria Bradavanti and Angie McAllister, Frankas sister. Maria thinks Rogetas Thesaurus and Oedipus Rex are dinosaurs. Angie gets involved with the womenas liberation movement. Her exploits are hilarious. Letas not forget the true heroine of the story, Annie McAllister, aunt to both boys. Itas she who takes Patrick in as a youngster when his mother dies. Annie is the light that makes the darkness recede. The climax occurs in the mountains behind Annieas home. All the issues, including Patrickas fatherhood, get resolved. The real hero is Jesus, as Patrick finds out.