What a wonderful story! Maynard succeeds in fleshing out characters in such a way that they feel alive. While reading the book I feel like I am in that little town secluded at the end of the road. I can feel Henry's anger and frustration, confusion and determination, but more importantly I can feel his joy and love. He has a good heart. It's not easy growing up, and Labor Day captures that idea fully. 
 I don't want to ruin anymore, but if you enjoy coming of age stories, this is a very good one, on par to Jane Hamilton. It's also a very quick read, almost too quick. The story can, if it wants to, continue throughout Henry's life: his journey through high school, through college, his eventual marriage, etc, and then come full circle to the story set in the beginning. I suppose the story wants to be more concise than that, but in the end I'm left wanting more.