One of nine children, Robin Klein has proven herself to be one of Australia's most prolific writers and this slim novel won't disappoint. Shelley, the protagonist is very egocentric and is upset when her mother gets an evening job and she has to stay with her elderly neighbour, Mrs Murray. After a while she reluctantly agrees to go to her mother's workplace, a home for children and adults with special needs. There she meets Ben who much to her chagrin cannot even get her name right; she doesn't even classify him as human but fortunately things change. Ben is petrified of water and Shelley suddenly finds herself in the role of swimming coach. A play script for this novel was written by Mary Morris. It would make a great play.
This blog contains reviews and comments on children's books which I own, have read, and would like to share. I look for books at markets and opportunity shops. They are cleaned up, covered and read. Then I take them to the classroom for students to read. Students can borrow the books at any time. Many books are also from my personal library, especially the Youth Fiction. Students can preview some of them on this blog. Now, I am also on the lookout for great new releases for my grandson Archie.
The book look great
ReplyDeleteBradley
I am a big fan of this book. I was only reading it in the June holidays and it was a good book to read infront of the fire and I finished it a few hours later. The book shows the strangest of friends and also one never to forget.
ReplyDeleteAnnie