Author:Robert Swindells
This is a contemporary tale about two friends - one of whom, Asra, is an asylum seeker from an unnamed Eastern European country. The other, Ruby Tanya, is the daughter of a local man who is campaigning against the presence of asylum seekers in his community. During a dramatic explosion at the girls' school, a young teacher is killed. The asylum seekers at the local camp are blamed, and local people begin to argue that they should be deported. A branch of the National Front gets involved and demos are planned. Asra and her parents are due to be deported, but Asra runs away at the last minute so her parents have to return without her. She hides in a nearby derelict building and is helped by Ruby Tanya.
Provides a gently persuasive argument for doing the right thing even if that leads you into conflict with your family
—— TESThe book opens with an explosion and maintains its pace throughout
—— ObserverThe subject is very relevant today and Swindell's approach for younger readers is superbly formed
—— Independent On SundayThe plot moves quickly, building to a gripping and frightening climax . . . An interesting read
—— The School LibrarianIs a challenging story of friendship set against difficult and topical subject matter
—— The Sunday TimesThis is a brave and successful attempt to help readers understand a complex, topical situation in our real world
—— The BooksellerThought-provoking book with sensitivity, wit and warmth . . . Its admirable message comes wrapped in a fast-paced and exciting adventure story populated with well-rounded characters
—— Irish Times'Thought-provoking ... strong second novel'
—— Bert Wright , Business Post'A poignant, delicately composed novel that doesn't stint on the wreckage of violence.'
—— Irish Daily MailMcKeon ... is a writer to watch. He conveys how people who cause harm can sometimes be victims, in their own way, and that takes skill. If you enjoy Colum Mcann's work, this novel is for you.'
—— Martina Devlin , Irish Independent'... beautifully written, placed in those grey shadows between right and wrong and profound, terrible loss.'
—— Anne Cunningham , Sunday IndependentA beautifully crafted story about the legacy of trauma
—— Sarah Gilmartin , The Irish TimesA supreme storyteller
—— Robert Collins , The Sunday Times Ireland