The main characters, Elly and Joe, are brother and sister and this book tells the story of their childhood, their secrets and their difficulties adjusting to an adult world.
What I think
I think this book is remarkable. It is an extremely subtle, yet powerful, portrayal of the childhood of Elly, Joe and Elly's best friend, Jenny Penny.
The book is in two parts: 1968 (set in Essex and Cornwall) and 2001 (set mainly in New York). Both sections of the book are set very distinctly in these periods and have a different feel about them. The era is portrayed well and the events of the era are fed through to transport you back in time.
The emotional side of the story is dealt with in such a delicate and moving way. Elly and Joe have shared a childhood, but by no means a typical childhood. This has made them form an extremely strong bond and they are supportive of each other's choices as both children and adults. When that is rocked by events in part 2, Elly is devastated and I felt personally moved by this.
About the Author
Sarah Winman (b. 1964) is a British actress and author. She attended the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art and has acted in theatre, film and television. Her debut novel, When God was a Rabbit, won several awards including Galaxy (yes, the chocolate!) New Writer of the Year.
Another one for my list. At this rate I will be A***n Customer of the Year! Postman won't be happy though.
ReplyDeleteIt will keep him in work though! ;0) xxx
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting my blog Laura, I am a new follower of yours :)
ReplyDeleteMy sister has been recommending this book to me for a while and your review makes it sound very good too. I will have to see if I can get hold of a copy at the library.
Hi Sam,
ReplyDeleteThanks for becoming a follower! I would definitely get hold of a copy of this book - it's really worth it!
The title is funny enough to entice one to read.
ReplyDeleteLeela
Indeed it is! There is a decent explanation in the book, but I'll let you find out for yourself what it is!
DeleteLaura
I loved this book....
ReplyDeleteDefinitely! What a debut novel!!
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