The wishing thread : a novel

"Known for its ties to the infamous "Legend of sleepy hollow," Tarrytown, N.Y., is a prime destination for those hoping to have a brush with the occult. But those native to the area know that the real magic happens deep within its trenches -- in the ramshackle neighborhood of Tappan Square -- where the Van Ripper women are believed to have the power to grant wishes by stitching them into the fibers of hats, scarves and mittens. The gift is one th...