The Bridge Of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder (2003, Paperback)

This was one of those books that we were supposed to read in literature class in high school. I, as usual back then, muddled through it and read just enough to pass the test on it. Now in my forties, I regret not trying harder and doing better in school. Lately I have gone back and read some of the "great works" that I should have read back then. Silas Marner, The Bridge, Seven Gables etc... Kids, one piece of advice - Read! I enjoyed going back and reading this book. The story is good! And really that's the only reason I love to read. I'm not one of these types that look for metephors and prose (or whatever), I just like a good story!
A missionary is troubled by the deaths of these people on the great bridge, and tries to find a reason or tie-in for God taking them. As you read his writing, you get to know the characters, their lives and the reason the were on that bridge that fateful day.
You can find this book just about anywhere. I bought it CHEAP on ebay. Bottom line, it's a good book, worth your time - Read it!