Review: You Have a Match by Emma Lord

You Have a Match by Emma Lord

Published by: Wednesday Books
Released on: January 12 2021 (In the US), March (in AUS)
ISBN: 9781250237309

Read: 4 – 7 January 2021

This is Emma Lord’s second novel. I didn’t read Tweet Cute, but would often see positive and complementary reviews of it crossing my Goodreads updates.

You Have a Match didn’t disappoint. It is my favourite kind of contemporary young adult novel, with a complicated plot, interweaving many layers and themes, while still maintaining a witty romantic tone. The central focus sees main character Abby discover she has a secret full-blooded sister 18 months older. Adjacent to that is her seemingly unrequited crush on her best friend Leo, and a drop in her academic results, partly due to the grief of losing her grandfather, someone who saw her, and listened to her and encouraged her passion for photography.

When new sister Savannah appears as someone put together and totally in charge, Abby’s self-confidence dips even further. Her parents, usually too busy dealing with her three younger rambunctious brothers, have turned their focus on her grades, and she feels much pressure to excel, and its this stress and uncertainty about her future that prompts her to keep Savvy a secret a bit longer and head off on summer camp, pretending she is going to be studying for SATs when in reality, it’s a chance to try to explore her relationship with Savvy and the circumstances of their situation.

Look, there were times when Abby made poor choices of which I was not a fan. Camp brings with it many surprises, one of these being Leo, (a budding chef), and a chance to work on that friendship and hopefully develop it into something more. But of course, miscommunication is the key here, and they spend a lot of time not talking, which is a pity, but which also builds the tension. Another camper, Finn enables Abby’s impulsive tendencies and this in turn jeopardises Abby’s friendship with Savannah. As I say, it’s complicated and (my other favourite word) messy. There’s a lot more that could be said about other characters like Connie and Victoria, the wonders of social media, and the gorgeous dog, but I think I will leave you to discover them for yourselves.

The drama builds, as we speculate on Savvy’s adoption, secrets are revealed, and insights gained. I immersed myself completely in Abby’s voice and sympathized with her, while also holding her accountable for her actions. Towards the end, it becomes a lot more about their parents, which is definitely an important contribution to the story. There’s fun to be had while Abby discovers things about herself and how she relates to others, and I am pleased to report the resolutions are satisfying and tie up most loose ends nicely.

Thanks to Wednesday Books and Netgalley for an advanced copy. Highly recommended to fans of Emery Lord, Jenn Bennett and Sarah Dessen. It’s modern, twisty and inclusive. Savvy’s gay status doesn’t even raise an eyebrow. I am so glad Australia audiences will have easy access by March.

You Have a Match is available now in the US.

Review: Defending the Galaxy by Maria V Snyder

Defending the Galaxy (Sentinels of the Galaxy #3) by Maria V Snyder

Published by HQ Young Adult – AU
Released on December 2 2020
ISBN 9781489252784

Read 9 – 12 December 2020

This is the first time in a long while where I have been unable to review a Netgalley book before its release date, and believe me! I feel all the remorse. Funny that, considering how small an audience this blog has, and how little my reviews contribute. But no matter. My Catholic guilt doesn’t discriminate.

I loved the first two books in this series, and having reviewed the second one a year ago here, I can see that I would be gushing about all the same elements: Ara’s growth, her ability to do what’s right not what’s easy, and the fast-paced action. This book just bulldozes through a number of complex plot points, some insightful considerations about the way humans treat technology and anything in fact that they can bend to their will, as well as some great family dynamics and the love story. Aah Niall, you are a true treasure: trusting, supportive and patient.

At the end of book 2, Ara’s connection to the Q-net is complete. Her bond and musings with the sentient being make for thoughtful and witty conversations. Q helps Ara navigate the obstacles, the bad guys and the whole galaxy, and it really feels like she is only 17. Continuously referred to as ‘junior officer’, readers never forget that she is low on every scale. When Ming pulls out the mother card and Ara is grounded, teen readers will observe an interesting stand off. Ara has been living by herself, training as a security officer, and yet she acquiesces to her mother’s worry and protective behaviour, demonstrating her maturity and her understanding of her parents’ feeling. But secretly, she continues to help her teammates and the human race, so much of her rebellious nature persists.

Jarren and his cronies are revealed in more detail: their motivation, their goals and their process. The HoLFs remain scary and a very clever enemy. Their attacks constantly create tension and suspense. While Ara’s abilities often seem to solve everything, she does have to work for the rewards — just trying to get the head honchos on board is a mammoth task in itself.

This is a highly satisfying conclusion to an action packed sci fi series. Recommended to any fans of this authors’ work, and to readers who enjoyed series such as Marissa Meyer’s Renegades, and Claudia Grey’s Constellations. Thanks to Netgalley and Harlequin Teen for advanced copy.

Released (in Australia) on December 2nd.

Review: The Mall by Megan McCafferty

The Mall by Megan McCafferty

Published by Wednesday Books
Released on 28 July 2020 (in the US)
ISBN 9781250209955

Read: 14 – 17 July 2020

This is a layered ride, a roller coaster of fun and mystery, but also a story of a girl coming to terms with her own prejudices and selfishness. The literal quest for treasure involving cabbage patch dolls and a snarky ex best friend who dumped our MC for cooler buds back in elementary school, is a reflection of Cassie’s inner quest to reconcile all her different personas – girlfriend of domineering Troy, high achieving honor roll student, judger of anyone not planning to attend college, daughter of Frank and Kathy, not so much life partners now, as dentists and business partners, and girl with no car licence.

Cassie has big plans but getting mononucleosis was not one of them. After four months recovery, she returns to her life, assuming all with be the same: she’ll finally ‘do it’ with Troy, they’ll work together over summer at the America’s Best Cookies franchise at the local Mall, and sail away to New York together for their happy ever after.

Well, actually, no. It’s not hard to predict that everything falls out of her reach. The first few chapters are devastating to read as Cassie sees her whole life disintegrate. McCafferty does an excellent job of making this privileged brainy tunnel-visioned character a person of sympathy. But as we get to know her, we see how many ways she can be a better person. It’s a gambit to make Cassie unlikeable, but by the time we understand her flaws, we’ve also seen her generosity, her stubborn will and her slow realisation of how selfish and condescending she can be. Her attempts to make amends are welcome and that it’s full of laughter and fun, only serves to make it more of a delight to read.

I haven’t mentioned a huge part of the story – it’s set in the ‘90s. So we have the Mall as the main place for bored teenagers, the video arcades, the cinema, the food court. McCafferty recreates the time and place with nostalgic affection, and her characters fit seamlessly into the space. The use of the treasure hunt to send Cassie and Drea all over the Mall to locate clues allows us to meet a bunch of quirky retailers and shops, as well as a potential new romance for Cassie. The musical soundtrack is perfect, of course, as is the pop cultural references (Beverley Hills 90210 anyone?) and the descriptions of fashion and hairstyles.

Despite the inner turmoil and identity crisis Cassie faces, McCafferty keeps it mostly light and witty. It’s so much fun to read. I hope 2020 kids pick it up and love it as much as I do.

Thanks to Netgalley and Wednesday Books for the advanced copy. It’s out in the US on July 28, and I hope Australia will see sometime in the future. Highly recommended who love their teen angst strong and snarky, who love to see their protagonists have to face a cold splash of reality, but who can also admit their failings and work to be better. The boys here a mix (as is true of real life) – some big-hearted and respectful, others not so much! The friendship battles with Drea are good times. Cassie’s parental woes are worked through the plot in a clever way, with the mystery of the treasure hunt solved satisfactorily (sort of).

Review: The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

Published by Tor Teen
Released on 14 July 2020
ISBN 9781250203656

Read 8 – 9 July 2020

Klune’s first foray into YA fiction is a bold exuberant celebration of all things queer and geeky. There is a big nod to lots of fun pop cultural elements: fan fiction and superheroes; but as well there is an intense emotional arc that, while swerving a little too close to sentimental, also reflects a strong sense of questioning identity for young people—am I good enough the way I am?

Nick is on a bunch of spectrums. He’s ADHD, a total geek boy, a totally gay geek boy, and the grief from his mother’s death hangs over him like a heavy cloud. His very supportive father is an adorable inclusion into the narrative as a person who tries hard to protect Nick, while giving him freedom, but also demanding more. Because Nick’s inability to filter himself, his reckless, impulsive side is sometimes a bit scary. It’s not that he’s thoughtless. His brain is just wired to ignore consequences and sometimes makes dangerous decisions that should scare most people.

Luckily, Nick is surrounded by loyal and straight-talking friends. Couple Jazz and Gibby tell him when he is taking things too far and follow him down erratic pathways. His best friend Seth has been missing in action over the summer, and now back at school, Nick is struggling to reconnect with this boy who has long been his secret crush (not helped by Nick writing a lot of slightly smutty fan fic about an Extraordinary called Shadow Star). Klune throws us straight into the middle of this complex relationship without giving all the backstory. He also includes Nick’s ex-boyfriend Owen, who is full of himself and incredibly hostile towards Seth. This dynamic is clearly more than what’s happening on page, and unfortunately for us, Nick’s oblivious narrative voice means we are constantly seeking out clues (which admittedly are dropped often), while he remains ignorant of what’s really going on with this pair of frenemies.

Nick puts himself at the centre of everything. This becomes tiresome, but since he is also very self-aware, he is able to keep readers on side, and our sympathy for him usually comes out ahead of our irritation at his antics and selfishness. But this is Klune very cleverly manipulating us and teasing us by incorporating the superhero elements of the story.

Look, I know I am a bit confusing. But that actually is the structure of the book. We are initially baffled by Nick’s obsession with Shadow Star. We can see Seth is right in front of Nick, and yet Nick lives in the clouds looking through a lens that is idealized and somewhat tainted. We keep reading because basically Klune is a very funny, geeky dude who constantly surprises with the jokes and the humanity and the affection he has for his characters.

And then everything starts to click, and the tension ramps up, and suddenly we are in the middle of a very suspenseful scenario and people could die people! So, we read on, worried for everyone, but especially our earnest, impulsive ordinary guy who without powers, takes on a hero’s journey because he must save those he loves, and he does it all with wit and intelligence, and a tiny spark of what the #$*? It’s extraordinary (gah, she had to go there). The resolution is nicely wrapped up, most mysteries are explained, and of course there’s a HEA…

Then, because this is book one, Klune shoves one more twisty dark secret at us, and leaves us with our mouths open, eyes twitching, hearts racing, and our minds ticking. *Shakes fist at the sky* Damn you Klune and your cliff-hangers. But this might just be me. Ha.

Thanks to Netgalley and Tor Teen for advancing this to me oh so long ago before #coronavirus, and through a delay of publication. I hope it all goes well for this book. Recommended for teens who love their protagonists awkward and flawed, but who is all heart. The intense moments are powerful and authentic, and the story dances around a number of genres. It’s a celebration of life and love, and it looks like there will be more. The Extraordinaries finally comes out tomorrow.

Review: Chasing the Shadows (Sentinels of the Galaxy #2) by Maria V Snyder

Chasing the Shadows (Sentinels of the Galaxy, #2) by Maria V Snyder

Published by: HarperCollins
Released: November 18 2019
ISBN: 978148925276

Read: November 1- 3 2019

This is a really great second book. It doesn’t feel like filler, or as if we are being dragged along waiting for the third book. Lyra/Ara continues to grow as a character, and as ‘the chosen one’, as do other characters who support her. This is especially true of people like Officer Radcliff, Niall’s father and Chief of Security, who develops into a kind-of second father to Ara. Elese, Beau and the other guards and crew soon have personalities and quirks and of course, we learn more about Niall, the boyfriend, and readers will love that we don’t see any romantic angst between them. The focus remains squarely on the obstacles they face created by Jarren to keep them isolated on Yulin with the Protectorate and the DES believing they are all dead.

Ara’s snarky narrative voice sets a cracking pace, and even when we are being brought up to speed with the events of the previous book, Navigating the Stars, it’s fast and concise. But this is still a long book because in order to develop Ara’s new gifts organically, Snyder cleverly sets up a number of layers so that there are plots within plots, and we are kept busy figuring out the meaning of the terracotta warriors all the way on the other side of the galaxy, Ara’s struggle with the physical training in her new role as a security guard, not to mention wondering where the murdering looter, Jarren has hidden himself. We know it’s only a matter of time before he makes an appearance, and the whole team must be ready to confront that reality.

Snyder’s books follow a certain path, and it’s all good. There’s a feisty female lead who is self-depreciating while still having the most power in the room at any given time. She brings together a group of loyal supports who have her back, but never let her forget her humble beginnings. When she starts to speak of weird conspiracies and displays talents no one should have, they shrug off the unusual nature because they quickly learn that to ignore what she says leads to bad things happening. In this case, Ara is a beacon of hope. Her ability to navigate the Q-Net is their salvation. While she stays a few steps ahead of Jarren most of the time, nothing is ever too easy. This is very important in a suspenseful novel: readers have to feel tension and anxiety and truly worry that at any moment one of the good guys could die. Snyder is a master at balancing this fine line.

Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins for the advanced copy of Chasing the Shadows. If you read Navigating the Stars this book will be obligatory reading. If you have enjoyed any one of this author’s other books, you might like to try this sci-fi mystery mashed up with an Indiana Jones treasure hunt. Recommended to other readers who like their heroes snarky and generous, and who enjoy original ideas about how the Earth connects to other life on other planets. The romance is solid, yet sweet, and the action thrilling. Chasing the Shadows is out everywhere on November 18.

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.

 

Lists: Best of 2017 Speculative Fiction

My definition of spec-fic covers fantasy, science fiction, dystopian fiction, magic paranormal, steampunk and super heroes. Cool huh? Most of these are covered in these six books, which are all excellent in their own right. Three are standalones, and three are the first in new series, although La Belle Savuage, as we all know, is a spin-off from the very popular His Dark Materials books.

I reviewed Daughter of the Pirate King (February) and Renegades (November) here on the blog just recently. I reviewed The Undercurrent (August) and What Goes Up (October) for RSO, and will add them here now:

The Undercurrent by Paula Weston Text Publishing

Weston’s characters are thoroughly Australian, from their friendly insults through to their strong heroic instincts. Main characters, Ryan and Jules capture our hearts and our sympathy because we see how much they are at the mercy of greedy corporations and corrupt government agencies. In a departure from standard YA novels, readers are also given viewpoints from two adults, and the book develops in an interesting and layered way. While for the most part this is a fast ride, an action-packed escapist adventure, it also asks important questions about the way money impacts negatively on basic essentials like food and safety. We are also challenged to think about the increase in privatisation, and imagine that happening to the military. The local setting is described clearly, and there are familiar place names that both Queenslanders and South Australians will recognise. The climax is tense and thrilling, and the conclusion will more than satisfy fans of Weston’s previous paranormal series. It will also bring in a new readership.

What Goes Up by Katie Kennedy Bloomsbury

This is a book of two halves—the first part set on Earth with our three heroes competing to be chosen to be part of NASA. With the likelihood of alien contact, or at worst, invasion, preparation for the future is crucial. Readers will enjoy pitting themselves against the candidates, considering how they might approach the challenges and puzzles experienced. Kennedy does an excellent job of including unpredictable results and consequences. It’s a series of sequences that are both intellectually stimulating, as well as physically exciting. As well we are asked to make ethical and moral choices, and this is where the book finds its heart.

The second part of the book sees our heroes now facing real danger, and all of the tests and theory must be put into practice. Space is not quite how others have imagined it, and we loved this fresh approach to the alien invasion trope. Kennedy places her characters into emotional upheaval, as well as the physical threats, and readers will find themselves drawn into more than just the action. They will also feel and question what it means to be a hero, and what makes us human. Strong storytelling.

Invictus by Ryan Graudin (October, Hachette) is a clever and controlled mash-up of about five tropes woven together – it’s a heist story, with a raggedy team of diverse genius misfits, who travel back in time to procure items just as they are about to vanish anyway. Stealing? Lord, no, of course not. It’s also snarky and contemporary as only sci fi can do well, with a mystery to solve via cryptic messages sent through time to help (or hinder), and at the core of it all, there’s a story of family, and lost love,  and finding out who you really are. I keep using these words–inventive, inclusive and one hell of a ride.

La Belle Savuage by Philip Pullman (October, David Fickling) Was possibly the most anticipated novel of the year. That’s certainly true for me. I went in with some trepidation, but fell back into the writing style and story with ease. I actually found it fast paced and quite moving. I loved Malcolm’s loyalty and steadiness. His immediate protective instinct towards six months old Lyra makes him the best person to keep her safe. It’s a tense mystery and hints at all the issues we see in Northern Lights. I absolutely loved being transported back into this world, and wish I had time to do more than just flick through the earlier texts, hunting for clues and characters.

That’s it for today. On Friday, I want to post my #diversity picks.

 

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.