Ten Books One Decade

Putting myself out there to share my highlights of a decade of reading #loveozya novels. These were originally posts on my Instagram and Litsy feeds from Dec 28 to Jan 6.

Tenbooksonedecade

2010

I cannot remember 2010. I was working in a secondary boys’ library and had already been there for 4 years. Enough to feel comfortable. I remember @childrensbookdaily had talked me into returning to uni to complete a Masters of Ed. ‘We need to update our degrees’. Sigh. I only got through one semester because I knew taking on the role of Qld Judge for the #cbcaawards would mean I would be reading (and not much else). I read over 400 books that year, and nearly as many the following.

Melina Marchetta’s return to the world of Francesca and her buddies completely bowled me over—emotional nuance, messy family, and the story of Tom. Shockingly real. I could have picked Marchetta for about four of my years, so it’s only right she’s my first pick of the decade.

2011

While The Piper’s Son didn’t win OR category, my pick for 2011 did. It would be remiss of me not to select at least one Scot Gardner book. His writing over the last 15 years reflect much of the change in YA trends. His male protagonists are often lost (literally), certainly flawed, but always deserve the opportunities to put their lives in order. I especially appreciate that romantic love isn’t a major concern and that friendship, identity and family are strong and welcome features of Gardner’s themes.

The Dead I Know features Aaron, a young man looking for a role model, searching for answers, and the simmering thread of violence is always lurking, ready to pull him into a darker world. Luckily his apprenticeship with John gives him the sense of security and stability he needs. Big shout out to Sparrow (2017) and Changing Gear (2018), which both challenge toxic masculinity norms.

2012

My oldest son slacked his way through Year 12, and I spent the year carting him to gymnastic training and events, choral and orchestra rehearsals and performances, and I took a deep breath after judging for two years, stepping down from reading over 80 #loveozya novels to only 29. Jaclyn Moriarty released a fantasy novel that started the quirky, original warm-hearted series, The Colours of Madeleine which I completely embraced.

Her two lovely main characters, Elliot and Madeleine, swapping letters through a tear between their two worlds, show feisty tenacity, kindness and courage. They are clever novels seemingly light and witty, but that are actually and ultimately multi-layered and terrifically insightful. Her work continues to speak to ordinary people with extraordinary imaginations and startling inner lives. I love everything she writes.

2013

Confession Time: I didn’t read The First Third until 2017. After I read The Sidekicks. After I had conversed with Will. After I left my boys’ school library, where I had pitched it and promoted it. All I can say to 2013 me is what the hell? I didn’t miss the hype. I watched it receive both critical and popular acclaim. All my peers lauded it and the kids loved it and when I finally read it, I accepted its greatness. The First Third is a perfect blend of humour and emotion. Will treats his audience with respect, and he does not pander or preach.  Will is a person of many opinions and a marketing acumen I envy. His stories are authentic, his style is his own, and I can’t wait to see what else he has for us.

Special mention to my other favs: Wildlife by Fiona Wood, Life in Outer Space by Melissa Keil and Girl Defective by Simmone Howell.

2014

II went back to study part-time in 2014. My younger son completed Year 12 at the same school as me, both pressures making it a difficult time. Probably the reason why I only read about 24 #loveozya novels. Having said that, I actually predicted 5 of the 6 OR shortlisted books that year (#humblebrag), so there’s that.

The Protected explores grief in exquisite and infinite sharpness. Hannah’s pain is raw and real. Conversing with her dead sister Katie creates unbearable connection. Her parents’ absence is understandable, yet also unforgivable, and it’s astonishing the relief we feel when Hannah starts talking to Anna. Josh’s appearance brings much needed sunshine to what is in essence of story about confronting death and accepting loss. Claire Zorn is an assured, master storyteller. I hope we don’t lose her entirely to the picture book genre.

Other favourites of 2014 include Intruder by Christine Bongers, Are you Seeing Me? by Darren Groth and Tigerfish by David Metzenthen.

2015

This was my most difficult year professionally. I found myself without a job in August, just in time to sort my youngest son into Calvary basic training a week before his 18^th birthday. That and study kept me from despair and trauma. Finding a new job after turning 50 seemed an impossible dream. I only read 18 #loveozya novels, but the highlight was Fiona’s third book in the aptly named Six Impossiverse trilogy, Cloudwish. There was something elusive and mercurial about Van Uoc’s inner voice, such a contrast to her external presentation – wild versus compliant, risky versus accepting, bold versus quiet. She’s a rare find.

Just as important as Fiona’s writing skills, is the fierce support she offers other Australian authors and to the YA community at large through her thoughtful examinations of books and trends. She promotes diversity and inclusivity, and I have gained insights every time I hear her speak.

Other notable mentions of 2015 for me are A Single Stone by Meg McKinlay, The Flywheel by Erin Gough and Lili Wilkinson’s Green Valentine.

2016

I found validation and purpose this year when Pauline from Riverbend Books asked me to read for RSO. I will be ever grateful for her confidence in me. I continue to read for this amazing service – I mean come on; someone asks me to read YA! #luckyandgrateful I also completed my MEd (Knowledge Networks and Digital Innnovations) while I started the process of becoming a supply/relief teacher.

This was a tough year to pick from the 36 novels I read. Three high quality stories, all exploring grief over the unexpected tragic loss of a loved one, could easily have been the one, but two authors have already had other books highlighted (demonstrating their mastery), but on top of that, Cath Crowley’s Words in Deep Blue also focused on books! And bookshops! And the power of words! And included swoony Henry! So, winner. I love this book so much.

The other two excellent #loveozya novels for me in 2016 are One Would think the Deep by Claire Zorn and The Sidekicks by Will Kostakis.

2017

If I thought 2016 was a difficult year to pick a best book, 2017 has been even harder. I read 45 #loveozya books through my ongoing association with RSO and was able to spend significant time looking after other people’s lovely libraries. This made me realise that being able to share my love of teen novels was still something I wanted to do. But I was also asked to speak at several network meetings, PD events, and I started to believe that I would be able to fill my time valuable by helping other library staff. I started applying more seriously for full time work, but also started to formulate a possible plan b. And was less stressed, less anxious.

But back to the wonderful books of 2017. How do I pick between some of the amazing books that were released this year? I could easily select any one of ten books, and if you want to see them all, go here. I made a ridiculous number of lists, two specifically related to Australian YA.

The book I ultimately chose, Because of You by Pip Harry rates highly for a number of reasons. I am going to go back one of many ravs about this book to try to explain… Harry’s inclusive and diverse cast of minor characters carries a subtle message about stereotyping and judging others. The tone is warm and gentle, but the subject matter is harsh and uncomfortable. However, readers aren’t made to feel pity or guilt. Instead they are inspired by the way individuals rise to the challenge to help others… It’s an astonishingly powerful story.

2018

In a year of Lenny (Book of Everything), Merrick (Changing Gear), and Ana and Jono (from Between Us), it is the protagonist of The Learning Curves of Vanessa Partridge who stays with me most of all. I apparently read 49 #loveozya novels this year, helped by me judging the Young Adult category of the Qld Premier’s Literary Awards. Vanessa’s intellectual curiosity about her sexuality and her navigation through unwanted advances was a highlight. The novel also covered environmental issues, parental mental health, and authentic friendships. I loved every complicated, messy thing about it!

This year I returned to a library on a part time basis. It was a perfect re-introduction back to school, and I settled into a rhythm of juggling a number of roles—I haven’t really mentioned my active involvement in CBCA Qld, and this year, I took on President of the Branch, in a year where we hosted the Shortlist and Winner announcement functions. I really fluked it in, because Jenny Stubbs’s team did the work, and I got to be the front line of the credit taking. Seriously, Qld achieves way beyond its means in these spaces. Such a great year!!

2019

This was a tough year – health issues, death of my dad, and returning to work full time meant I was often stressed. However, some new good things happened too – Rhianna Patrick (@ABCRhi) invited me to be a regular on her radio book chat panel and that has been such good fun. Another year as Qld Branch president, a trip to Canberra for the National CBCA conference and judging the Qld Lit Awards kept me involved in kids’ lit while school encouraged me to learn more about coding and programing (eek). There were fewer YA novels released, but more MG, and I have many opinions about that.

This is How We Change the Ending represents Vikki Wakefield’s contribution to YA this decade. Starting with her debut novel. All I Ever Wanted in 2011, all five novels reflect a genuine representation of Australian teens—their desires, their fears, and their triumphs. Her latest sub-verts our expectations and challenges us all to listen to the teens in our lives and support them to find their best selves.

I also completed loved It Sounded Better in My Head by Nina Kenwood.  

So farewell to the short-sighted twenty-teens. May we all save the planet in the twenty-twentys!

Best Books 2019

I have read 180 mostly young adult and middle years fiction books (so far) in 2019. I have cut those down to a list of 24 (how? I do not know). See picture above. The most important concerns that were felt in the YA community this year seem to be #ownvoices and positive representatives of rarely seen or heard minority groups. I believe I have included excellent examples of these, including How We Roll, How it Feels to Float, and Ghost Bird. I seem to also have a bias toward LGBT stories (too many to list), and am happy to see an increasing number of books for younger teens.

I then whittled that crazy long list down to only 5. Look, on any given day, it could have been a different five. I cast my eye over my choices now, and I find myself second guessing decisions. So basically I loved them all a lot.

Three of them are squarely contemporary YA, and reflect a range of intensity — from full on gritty realism (This is How We Change the Ending) through to happy, flirty romance (It Sounded Better in my Head). Call it What you Want fits neatly between these two #loveOzYA books, developing strong social issue story lines as well as a realistic love story. All of these books demand that their protagonists confront some very harsh truths about themselves and the choices they make, and organically allow them to navigate their own way through. I hope they find readers who will not only identify with their anxieties, but who will also be able to conquer some of their own life stresses. Reading is both therapy and escape.

To Night Owl from Dogfish represents my growing interest in books for 12 to 14 year olds. Honestly, they are the largest audience for my school library borrowing, and seeking out the full range of genres for them, to try to cater for every different reading taste, has become a priority and a godsend. These readers are so appreciative of efforts to provide them with accessible and satisfying material. There is much job affirmation to be gained from what might seem to be a chore (but clearly isn’t). Anyway, it is a funny warm novel, developing a terrific friendship between two unlikely girls. Their care and support of each other shines through their scrapes and sulks. The fact that it is written entirely through emails, text messages and a variety of other epistolary means, challenges this age group initially, but I have only heard glowing reviews from students. It’s a really enjoyable read.

I cannot make a list of favourite reads without including a new Marchetta. Those of us who started way back in 2004 with Saving Francesca have been waiting patiently for Jimmy’s story, and The Place on Dalhousie lives up to all expectations. A slim, tight novel, Marchetta nails what she always does best: creating complicated, messy families from air, bringing them together even when (especially if) they don’t want it. So much laughter is here. But also a feeling of nostalgia for people gone. It struck me with all the feels, but that is typical of this author. Her writing seems to tick every one of my reading boxes.

I wonder if next year we will be showered with more climate novels–not in the dystopian, set in the near future scenario–but in the right-now, it’s happening and what can be done situation. It seems highly likely given it’s the number one concern for teenagers across the world. And of course, it’s not only young people facing up to an uncertain future, it’s all of us.

Review: Two Middle Fiction Books (but are they?)

Lenny’s Book of Everything by Karen Foxlee

Published by Allen & Unwin
ISBN 9781760528706
Released on October 26 2018

Read October 8-12 2018

The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars by Jaclyn Moriarty

Published by Allen & Unwin
ISBN 9781760297183
Released on October 26 2018

Read August 23 – October 10 2018

Both of these books will be marketed at young readers, anywhere between 10 and 14 years. They are very different in style, subject matter, and purpose, but they have one thing in common  – The complexity of those above elements in each, mean that they can be enjoyed by much older readers. Foxlee and Moriarty use language in extraordinary ways, they don’t pander to a preconceived idea of how books should treat children, and they certainly don’t mess around with telling some harsh truths about living and dying. These two novels deserve a wide and deep audience.

The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars is a prequel (of sorts) to The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone. The same charm is evident, the same quirky humour, and it overflows with adventures, asides, and development of character. The start takes us to a different part of the Kingdoms and Empires world, and the gradual reveal of how it links to Bronte’s story is worth every minute. The story of the competitiveness between the two groups of children, and their subsequent banding together despite their differences, reflects Moriarty’s understanding of young people and the way they interact and navigate relationships. Finlay, Honey Bee, Glim, Victor, Taya, Eli and Hamish all require acknowledgement as each plays a pivotal role in discovering the mystery at the heart of the whispering wars. This is a twisty tale, and children will be caught up in the puzzles, the clues and the surprises.

However, The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars is so much more than a child’s fantasy, much in the same way as Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series is. Moriarty includes commentary and explanation along the way that is often mature and oh so relevant. We grapple with the injustices against people overwhelmed by poverty. We experience frustration at the wasted layers of bureaucracy and mediocrity. There’s also the crucial question to ponder: why are children always stolen away? This means that we, as adults, meet this story on a number of other ostensibly deeper layers, and are enriched and enlightened as well as entertained and moved.

Lenny’s Book of Everything is set in 1970’s Ohio, which might seem strange for an author who lives in Queensland. However, its time period, geographic location and creation of characters are all pitched perfectly. Cindy, mother of Lenore and David, is a force with which to be reckoned. She is all lioness, protective, growling and under estimated. Her fight for dominance with Burrell’s General Sales Manager Martha Brent, is a battle for the ages, and the lines drawn in the sand reflect the growing struggle for Davey’s life. Ultimately everyone unites for the same cause–and the emotional power is sustained and lingering on the reader.

Lenny our narrator is an authentic child. She radiates with anger about their useless ineffectual father, while she mourns his absence. She keeps Davey safe, at the same time resenting the attention everyone pours over him. She refuses to let go of her dreams to be an entomologist, and never wavers in her dislike for Mr King or her belief in Mrs Gasper. Her encounters with Mrs E Spink and the insights she gains through that misadventure, show her growing into a compassionate and kind individual. This really is Lenny’s book, and the heartache surrounding Davey is filtered through the lens of her optimism and faith in the world. Just like Scout, Holden and Ponyboy, Lenny is a character who represents her time, and whose view of the world is one to admire and revisit. Foxlee’s writing is sublime. Lenny’s Book of Everything is a story that will be enjoyed by adults as well as young people. The same is true of The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars.

Seek them out.

 

Review: Five Friendship Novels

I keep reading then forgetting to keep notes and write reviews, and then I have nothing new to add to the blog. Oh dear #firstworldbloggingproblems So here are short reviews on five books I recently read, all of which have a focus on friendship, an important element in all teenagers’ lives. They cross a number of different genres, but mostly they are contemporary novels, that resist the temptation to focus primarily on romantic relationships.

Stay Sweet by Siobhan Vivian

Published by: Simon & Schuster
Released: 24 April 2018 (in the US)
ISBN: 9781481452328
Read: 14 July 2018

While there is a developing romance between MC Amelia and Grady, it is the friendship of Amelia and BFF Cate that creates the tension and identity crisis that Amelia faces. She is an extremely likable protagonist, and we see parallels with Molly, original owner of the ice cream stand and the ways her friends supported her. This back and forth through different times reminds us just how much girls have relied on their friends throughout the ages, with female friendships explored in a number of interesting and realistic ways here. I know some readers complain about how acquiescing Amelia is to Cate, but that just shows you the type of girl she is, and consistent characterisation is very important. I am pleased to see that ultimately she stands by her beliefs about the way people should be treated, and the leadership style she has. I found this novel every engaging and inspiring.

 

Tash Hearts Tolstoy by Kathryn Ormsbee

Published by: Simon & Schuster
Released: 1 August 2018 (in AUS)
ISBN: 9781481489348
Read: 9 September 2018

Main character Tash identifies as romantic asexual, so it’s not surprising that there’s a strong interest in how she develops and maintains romantic relationships. But really, it’s her friendships with siblings, Jack and Paul Harlow that create the most interesting elements of the story. Tash also has a very love/hate dynamic with her own sister, Klaudie, and Ormsbee ensures their connection is dealt with in depth and authenticity. We also witness Tash’s interactions with other secondary characters who play roles in her YouTube series, Unhappy Families, and again these are not treated in a trite or contrived way. Tash has a lot going on with her sudden Internet fame, and of course this impacts on all her relationships. The online attraction with Thom is a slow moving beast, and when they finally meet towards the end of the novel, readers are given a most satisfying encounter, and Tash finally recognises her own worth. I loved this complex twisty novel a lot.

Tempests and Slaughters by Tamora Pierce

Published by: Lothian Children’s Books
Released: 13 February 2018 (in AUS)
ISBN: 9780734418678
Read: 14 September 2018

This story of the origins of Numair has been a long time coming, and young people who read Dane’s story will want to come back (even if they are now adults) and read this.

It does have a bit of a Harry Potter feel, in that Arram Draper (as he was known then) spends most of this book at the mage’s academy in Carthak. Spanning four years, from the time Arram is 11 till he’s 14, the story shows us his potential, his connection to his masters, and of course, the friendships he develops with Varice and Ozorne, who as we all know,become great enemies of Numair.

The friendship is paramount to all three. They are the most magical, the cleverest and the youngest of all the mages, and it’s this connection that brings them together. But what keeps them together is their understanding of each other’s weaknesses. There seems to be such a strong foundation, it is hard to believe it will be torn apart, and knowing that it is, it is easy to imagine how devastating that chasm will be for each of them, but mostly for Arram–who is humble, generous and free of any malice or envy. I think this book shows a growth in the author’s writing style. It might sent you back to the Realms of the God quartet. It did that to me.

 

The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy by Mackenzi Lee

Published by: Katherine Tegan Books
Released: October 2 2018 (internationally)
ISBN: 9780062890122
Read: September 28 2018

This follow up to The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue is set one year after the adventures of Monty, Percy and Felicity. Now from Felicity’s point of view, we witness her failed attempts to be accepted into medical school in Edinburgh. When the person who she trusts and likes, offers to marry her to rescue her from her flights of fancy, Felicity hightails it back to London and imposes on Monty and Percy and starts again.

The narrow defined roles of women only makes Felicity more determined to succeed, and to do this, she must take advantage of a ruined friendship. I utterly loved how flawed the girls are here. They are not martyrs or saints–they are real girls, motivated, opportunistic, each with their own agendas. Fortunately, Felicity’s align with Sim’s. then with Johanna’s, and the growing relationships between these three willful women mean they are stronger, fiercer, and more able to achieve, even though they are constantly thwarted at every turn by narrow-minded, misogynistic, privileged [insert your own rude name here] men.

As you can tell, I loved this a lot. It’s funny (especially when we meet up with Monty and Percy, the adorable and adoring couple), exciting and entertaining. Girl power for the win (eventually)!

Paper Cranes Don’t Fly by Peter Vu

Published by: Ford Street Publishing
Released: August 1 2018 (in AUS)
ISBN: 9781925272765
Read: October 3 2018

I read this because it was the only Gold Inky shortlisted novel I hadn’t read. The day before I picked it up, it won! Chosen by Australian teenagers, this novel beat out Take Three Girls, Beautiful Mess and In the Dark Spaces, and I believe it is the depiction of friendship that makes it a winner for young readers.

Adam’s brain tumour has not slowed him down much. Since he’s a brain rather than a sporty kid, he’s been able to continue schooling, reading and achieving well. This latest trip to the hospital right at the end of Year 12 means his two best friends, Tess and Ambrose, are busy studying and taking exams, while he lives out his days remembering and writing.

Adam is a humble and loyal friend. He takes us back to pre-school when he first met Ambrose and Tess, and then subsequently through various significant events, clearly demonstrating the strength and depth of these friendships. Yes, he meets Rachael, another hospital bound teenager, and re-connects with Rosie, a former book buddy, but it’s Tess and Ambrose who he turns to when he gets bad news, and they don’t let him down. Just to let you know, I cried continuously through the story. It is emotionally powerful and inspiring, depicting courage and love. A strong read.

I highly recommend all these books to you if you want a book about teenagers’ friendships.

 

Review: Amelia Westlake by Erin Gough

Amelia Westlake by Erin Gough

Published by: Hardie Grant Egmont
ISBN: 9781760127152
Released: 2 April, 2018

Read: 12 January, 2018

Both Will and Harriet attend posh Rosemead Grammar, but their experiences couldn’t be further apart. While Harriet has embraced the opportunities—prefect, tennis champ, debater, and all round suck-up, Will is insouciant, subversive, anti-social and all out revolutionary. Their narratives voices are day and night, light and dark, enthusiastic conformist versus crusading rebel. Gough sublimely moves from Will’s angry, cynical tirades to Harriet’s entitled privilege, giving readers insight into an elite school environment where the reality of day-to-day learning butts up against the façade that is presented to the world.

The posh school is a familiar trope to readers of YA. While some books show staff who are caring and hard working, at Rosemead, we are confronted with sexism and casual discrimination. Of course, Will fights against it, while Harriet finds ways to excuse and to defend. We just know that this pair will clash, and it actually happens early on, their battle of wits snarky and flirty (even though they don’t know the other is gay) and the subsequent journey is deliciously fun as well as thought-provoking.

Not only are we privy to the ins and outs of the school, we are also given glimpses into the family lives of our two protagonists. Will’s parents have separated, and she and mum have downsized to an unit in the centre of Sydney, multicultural, loud and vibrant. Her father has moved to Perth, and we learn that Will’s fear of flying is a road block to seeing him. Flight is a constant metaphor weaving though Will’s storyline, and of course, it ties into Harriet’s plot as well.

Harriet’s parents are mouth surgeons, hardly ever home but exerting an unrealistic amount of pressure on Harriet’s academic, sporting, and social life. The number of balls she is juggling is evident in her near panic attacks at the mere suggestion she might drop even one. She’s a hot mess, basically, but incredibly focused and task-oriented.

Whereas Will represents the ‘woke’ young person, engaging in social justice issues and politics, Harriet stands for the sheltered innocent teenage Australian who has been encouraged to believe hard work and aligning herself with the ‘right’ people will bring rewards and happiness. Her many protestations of I didn’t know sound genuine, but we want to see action from her, and real change, and of course, we do and she does. It’s a terrific transformation, and part of the reason why Will falls for her, and hard.

Look, I have barely talked about the plot points at all, but just know Amelia Westlake’s attempts to highlight injustice and discrimination are inspiring and bring unexpected results. The girls discover their true friends, and by the end, there’s a sense that they have made a difference, and have not just stood by and let bad things happen. This is a positive message for young people–that they can help to make the world a better place. They also find each other, and there’s everything lovely about the acceptance of girls loving other girls.

Yes, some of the situations are over-the-top and maybe a little too contrived, but readers of contemporary teen novels will be happy to be swept along by the clever plot, the engaging characters and the joyous love story. Another quality #LoveOzYA novel. Out now in Australia.

 

New Release Reviews: January to March 2018

I have read lots of books that have come out in the first three months of this year. I am going to write short sharp reviews of those I enjoyed and those I can see a place for in libraries for young people.

January

The Harper Effect by Taryn Bashford Pan Macmillan ISBN 9781760552091 AUS

Actually came out in the last week of December but could have been easily overlooked in those first and last weeks of the year. Harper’s tennis career is well developed. She’s a talented player, and her journey to make it to the elite level rings true. Her new coach offers advice that would be welcome for any teen willing to listen. Her family life is also complicated, but she is well supported by loving parents. The love triangle with Jake and Colt doesn’t devolve into the disaster it could have. Harper’s preference comes through quite early, and although there is some miscommunication with both boys, it’s resolved quite easily. Harper does behave foolishly, but she is only 16, and is inexperienced in romance due to all her training and travel. I thought she learned from her mistakes, and always tried to be better. Taryn wrote about the importance of seeing sporty girls in fiction, and her comments are valid and interesting.

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black Hot Key Books ISBN 9781471407031 

This was on my highly anticipated list, and it didn’t disappoint. Jude is a worthy hero, and her attempts to sort through the twisted politics of the faerie world in which she finds herself, is absorbing and unpredictable. We know she acts for her family, and this loyalty to them is well plotted. Holly Black loves to play around with tropes and stereotypes, and readers will need every bit of their faith in Jude to see her through this first ‘folk of the air’ novel. All the characters are fully realised, but none of them are easy to categorise. We are never sure who stands with Jude or who is against her. It’s a delicious dilemma to face because the tension runs high, and the climax is very satisfying. Of course, we are left wanting more. We wouldn’t want it any other way.

February

Between Us by Claire Atkins Black Inc Press ISBN 9781760640217 AUS

Beautifully written, richly diverse, nuanced and credible, this authentic tale has many layers and yet avoids sounding like an ‘important lesson we should all read’. That’s not to say it isn’t important. It is. That’s not to say we shouldn’t all read it. We certainly should. But we should read it because it is engrossing, and compassionate, and full of contemporary insights. Young people are given a glimpse into life in a detention centre, and older people will be asked to see issues from a modern teenager’s point of view. It’s challenging for all readers. Ana’s fears, Jonno’s vulnerabilities, and Kenny’s distress are all understandable. Atkins has done all her research well, and the story of these two young people struggling with identity, politics and relationships will open eyes and hearts to their plight. It’s really good.

Tin Heart by Shivaun Plozza Penguin Random House ISBN 9780143786276 AUS

Marlowe has just had a heart replacement, and while that is enough for anyone to deal with, she also has to content with a vegan-warrior mother taking on the local butcher, and a younger brother, who creates an inspiring costume every day, and must be protected from bullies and bigots. Returning to school means she must speak up for herself and find new friends, and that’s a big ask for an introvert, partly obsessed with the person who died and gave her their heart.

Plozza has created a sympathetic main character, whose actions reflect her dismay at how little she can control her life. She becomes braver, and more confident, and yet some of her actions have negative repercussions, and Marlowe has to own up to some mistakes, and seek forgiveness from people who she has let down.

A poignant story about finding a way through the complexities of life.

The Endsister by Penni Russon Allen & Unwin ISBN 9781741750652 AUS

Utterly charming, and thought-provoking, this family drama transports five siblings from country Australia to urban London, when their parents receive news of an exciting opportunity. Each child reacts differently, and the multiple viewpoints allow readers to experience a wide range of emotions.

Eldest siblings Clancy and Else are our dominant travel guides, in first person narrative whereas 6 year old Sibby’s voice is third person. There are actually two more brothers, twins Oscar and Finn, who are, for the most part, interchangeable and silent. Not only do we have access to the children’s thoughts, we are also privy to the conversations of two spirits who still reside in the London house. Sibbi’s ability to see and feel them affects her emotional state, and we watch a vibrant happy child transform into a sickly one. A mystery develops about why they are still haunting the place, and the children’s involvement opens up secrets and a long lost history that is both poignant and compelling.

Russon’s story explores the notion of family and belonging, and is pitched perfectly at readers aged between 9 and 12. There is a strong sense of location, the contrast between rural Australia and hectic London described through sights, sounds and smells. It’s very visceral and layered.

March

The Date to Save by Stephanie Kate Strohm Scholastic ISBN 9781338149067

A book with an odd but compelling style called ‘oral history’, that needs time to settle. Readers will have to contend with many narrative voices, and the interplay between each varying opinion and agenda. To say too much about the plot would spoil the big reveal that happens at about the halfway point, but much can be said about its humour, style and messages.

First of all, it is very funny. The snarky humour spreads throughout the book, as characters contradict each other, defend themselves, and blurt out secrets. It is all very high school. But there is also a satirical element to the humour, and it’s almost as if the author is cheekily taking aim at some of the stereotypes and tropes of YA fiction, even as she is writing one. The story in complicated and layered, and that the resolution is pulled off so satisfactorily, it’s a testament to a clever, organised author, who has clearly spent time, ensuring threads tie together neatly.

The messages are ones we continue to need to hear. We should be kind to each, and try not to be judgmental about people’s choices. The author comments on sibling rivalry, ambition, loneliness and persistence. She argues we need to realise it isn’t bad to ask for help, nor is getting support from your peers. We all have value, something to contribute, and our individual gifts or talents help balance and increase community and society. I loved hearing these positive messages while being entertained and challenged.

If I Tell You by Alicia Tuckerman Pantera Press ISBN 9780646961255 AUS

While there are several queer teen books set in Australian cities, there isn’t much set in rural towns, and If I Tell You is very much a book about being an outsider in a close community, and finding the right time to reveal who you really are. Tuckerman’s depiction of Alex’s conflict and fragile self esteem is authentic and strong. She has known for a while that her mother, particularly, will struggle with a lesbian daughter. Her standing in the CWA, her strong faith and family values will not allow for such a gap in her understanding of the way people ought to be. I found her narrow mindedness extremely difficult to accept, to be honest. Alex is emboldened by the arrival of the charismatic Phoenix but unfortunately her depiction is just a little too manic pixie dream girl, and I was a little disappointed by the way the plot unfolded in the last section. It isn’t even a gay trope, it’s a basic coming-of-age scenario I thought YA was well past. Having said that, it is handled with care and careful sensitivity. I think this story will resonate with readers because of its compassionate portrayal of first love.

2018 Anticipated Reads

I have been lucky enough to read some 2018 novels already, and have enjoyed many of them, most especially P is for Pearl by Eliza Henry-Jones (March), White Night by Ellie Marney (March) and Truly, Wildly, Deeply by Jenny McLachlan (April).

The National Book Award Winner Far From the Tree by Robin Benway was another one I really wanted to read, and it does not disappoint. It’s now available as paperback here in Australia.

Here are three other books for which I am also mad keen. Blurbs courtesy of Goodreads.

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black (January) Little Brown Books

Jude was seven years old when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King.

To win a place at the Court, she must defy him–and face the consequences.

In doing so, she becomes embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, discovering her own capacity for bloodshed. But as civil war threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.

 

Amelia Westlake by Erin Gough (April) Hardie Grant Egmont

Harriet Price is the perfect Rosemead Grammar student – wealthy, smart, overachieving – while Will Everhart is a social-justice warrior with a chip on her shoulder. But when a worrying incident with their swimming coach goes unnoticed by the authorities, the unlikely pair creates an elaborate hoax to bring him down.

As tensions burn throughout their elite private school – and between the two girls – how long can they keep their hoax a secret? And how far would they go to really make a difference? Australian.

 

 

Sam & Ilsa’s Last Hurrah by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan (April) Knopf Books

Siblings Sam and Ilsa Kehlmann have spent most of their high school years throwing parties for their friends–and now they’ve prepared their final blowout, just before graduation.

The rules are simple: each twin gets to invite three guests, and the other twin doesn’t know who’s coming until the partiers show up at the door. With Sam and Ilsa, the sibling revelry is always tempered with a large dose of sibling rivalry, and tonight is no exception.

One night. One apartment. Eight people. What could possibly go wrong? Oh, we all know the answer is plenty. But plenty also goes right, as well…in rather surprising ways.

 

Whatever you are doing this New Year’s Eve 2017, be happy and safe. My family and I are hoping to see Coco, then dine somewhere with fabulous food. See you in 2018.

Lists: Best of 2017 LoveOzYA (more)

So now you know why I have been adding reviews up here randomly–so I can link to them without having to come up with something about a book I read months ago. I am very weepy that I never wrote more about The Secret Science of Magic (April) because it might almost be my favourite of the year, and I don’t have a copy to remind myself or reread passages. Yet I have strong memories of its authentic portrayal of anxiety, its diverse range of characters, plus a terrific representation of family, and of course, Joshua’s magic, optimism and final grand gesture. Everything about it worked for me.

I added reviews of The Things We Promise (March) and Take Three Girls (September) recently. I believe they will feature on many 2017 awards lists. They are powerful stories that invite readers to see the perspective of different people, and in doing so, encourages empathy and action.

I will add some words from reviews I wrote for RSO for the other three books.

Remind Me How it Ends by Gabrielle Tozer (March)

Gabrielle Tozer’s third novel presents Milo, small town slacker, one of the only kids in his year level to not escape to university. We meet him in the first chapter, visiting Sal, his high school girlfriend at a college party, and his bewildering sense of dislocation and separateness from her and her new friends is described perfectly.

This sets the scene for Milo’s search for a sense of belonging. It’s not in Durnan, middle of nowhere ACT, or at his parents’ bookshop where he works. It’s certainly not Sal, or his friends who have left him behind. Turns out it might be Layla, one time best friend, who arrives out of the blue, seemingly damaged, reliant on a deadbeat boyfriend, but who sparks something in Milo he can’t deny or resist.

This coming-of-age story is fresh and strong, and offers many layers beneath the banter, the banal world Milo wants to escape, and the bittersweet feelings of loss and longing. The ending is perfectly pitched, and provides an realistic and satisfying resolution.

Because of You by Pip Harry (August)

Tiny’s voice, aimless and full of longing, is distinct from Nora’s heart-broken and uncertain one. There is vulnerability for both of them, and the friendship and kinship that develops through their interactions is as hopeful as it is unexpected. Harry’s inclusive and diverse cast of minor characters carries a subtle message about stereotyping and judging others. The tone is warm and gentle, but the subject matter is harsh and uncomfortable. However, readers aren’t made to feel pity or guilt. Instead they are inspired by the way individuals rise to the challenge to help others, like Eddie, and cheer on the members of the creative writing group as they bravely confront their demons in a public forum full of strangers.

Harry has created a well plotted story combining a number of topical social issues with a strong coming-of-age journey. Do not let teen boys be put off by this cover. It’s relevant and important for all young adults about to step into the wide, sometimes uncaring world.

Gap Year in Ghost Town by Michael Pryor (August)

Anton’s snarky, laid-back voice is one of the best reasons to read this book–he is hilarious, self-aware and self-depreciating. The two female leads, Rani and Bec call him out when he is disparaging, but in ways that are clever and helpful. The trio are formidable when the action starts, but that takes time, actually, and the story is better for the steady build-up and foundation created by astute writing and an eye for detail. Pryor’s confident and witty wordplay will appeal to nerdy readers who are likely to geek out at the constant pop culture references and the humorous asides.

Anton’s indecision about his future is not overworked, and yet is a constant thread, making it just as much a coming-of-age story as it is a ghost busting action-packed fight against the forces of evil. Adults play significant roles, some helpful and some obstructive, adding depth and richness. I particularly love the character arc of Anton’s dad where he learns to navigate the wonders of 21st century technology.

It’s a genre novel that doesn’t pander or placate. It’s elegant, clever and charming.

On Sunday, I will post the obscurely titled ‘Names’ list.

 

Lists: Best of 2017 LoveOzYA 2

I couldn’t limit myself to only 6 Australian novels, but I could manage 12. Here are my first 6.

I reviewed three of these here, over this year: Valentine (January), Before You Forget (January) and Wilder Country (August). They are very different in style and genre, but they all depict a strong main character who has to deal with big questions. They are each distinctly Australian, either by voice or location, and they all offer an authentic teenage experience.

I went back to RSO to see what I said about My Lovely Frankie, and it’s a fairly extensive review, so I impulsively added it here yesterday. I am not sure which teen is going to pick it up, but it won’t be that cover that puts them off! I found the story mesmerising and gentle.

The other two are well reviewed on GR and other places. But just quickly, here are some thoughts of mine.

Night Swimming by Steph Bowe (April)

Kirby lives in the smallest country town in Australia, according to her best friend Clancy who is ready to flee to be a musical theatre star, and his snark and vibrancy keep Kirby from moping about too much. Everyone wants Kirby to leave too, but she’s less sure of that, especially when her grandfather starts to exhibit signs of memory loss and dementia.

Kirby is going through a lot, yet Bowe’s writing style is laconic and breezy. She allows Kirby’s fears about her family to filter through a lens of humour and rebellion. She doesn’t want to follow expectations, or hurt anyone, but she does have things to figure out, including her feelings about her absent father, and the new delectable arrival, Iris.

This gentle story is full of heart and optimism. Kirby is slow to act, but her thoughts are generous and self-effacing. It’s the small details that gives this story depth – the mysterious crop circles, and why they appear, the carpenter with a casual approach to Kirby as apprentice, the animals, all as important to Kirby as people, and of course, Clancy’s one-night-only extravaganza musical performance. The whole town comes alive under Bowe’s skillful hand, and it’s impossible not to get caught up in their stories.

Ballad for a Mad Girl by Vikki Wakefield (May)

Grace’s narration is strong if not always reliable. Wakefield continually plays on the meaning of ‘mad’, so that by the end, we have been twisted and turned like a broken spiral. There’s a mystery to solve, friendships to patch, and a brother who is impossible to know. Grace’s grief about her mother’s death scars her actions, and ultimately we are left with more questions than answers. Well, I was.

It really is a tour de force and I am intrigued to see the next direction Wakefield takes. I know I don’t explain anything here about the plot, but it is best to read this unspoiled.

My (other) favourite 6 Australian novels will be posted on Friday.

Review: My Lovely Frankie by Judith Clarke

My Lovely Frankie by Judith Clarke

Published: Allen & Unwin
Published: July 1 2017
ISBN: 9781760296339

Read: April 21 2017

In an age where it is hard not to judge the Catholic Church for its reprehensible actions against children, My Lovely Frankie offers a different point of view. True, the teachers of the seminary are exactly as you’d expect – inflexible, pious, and judgemental– but into that narrow, repressed world comes narrator, Tom, and the aptly coined lovely Frankie.

Frankie is exactly the type of priest who would be accepted and appreciated today. But in the 1950s, he stands out as too earthly, too empathetic, too much in the present. Frankie celebrates nature, he listens to (lay) people, he smiles at everyone. These qualities are condemned, and leave him open to envy and anger. Quiet, solitary Tom understands that Frankie is at risk, he’s just not sure why or from whom.

The build up to Frankie’s disappearance combines the story at the seminary, a look back to how both boys arrived there, and as well, we see and hear from Tom in the future, as he is now, old and content, presiding over a small country town parish, accepting of his attraction to Frankie, and its implications. It’s a mastery of structure and storytelling that each of the timelines flow naturally into each other, and that as patient readers, we let Clarke guide us gently through the joys of Frankie’s life, and the tragic consequence of jealousy and ambition.

Today’s young people are more secular and less knowledgeable about how Church doctrine impinged on many aspects of people’s lives. The ‘50s and ‘60s weren’t so long ago, but Australia’s societal and cultural norms have shifted significantly. This look back is almost like viewing a different country. It provides teenagers with another narrative to add to the one they get from today’s media about the role and impact of institutional religion.

Review originally written for Riverbend Standing Orders.