Winner of the Costa Children’s Book Of The Year Award 2007
The Bower Bird is the sequel to the critically acclaimed The Burying Beetle which was shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award for an outstanding first novel to a first-time writer of a book for young people.
Gussie lives in Cornwall and, like most twelve-year-olds, is quickly growing up. She is also awaiting news of a heart transplant operation. When Gussie moves from the coast to a new house in town, she rebels, discovers her ancestors and an interest in photography, falls in love and has parent troubles; all whilst experiencing general adolescent angst and trying not to wait for what might never happen.
This is a fantastic book, and the subject matter is dealt with in a sensitive way - a girl who has serious heart problems and may not have long to live. However, the illness is not the only focus of the story. its well written and the characters are realistic. It’s an absorbing novel that will keep you gripped until the end.
Teresa Gormley, Waterstones, WarringtonThe Bookseller
JACKET REVIEW
‘I’m pleased to announce that Gussie… has lived to see another day… with Kelley capturing so beautifully Gussie’s optimism and
hope.’SUE BAKER’S PERSONAL CHOICE, PUBLISHING NEWS.
‘Gussie Stevens is a wonderful character, fragile but determined to be independent, funny, sharp, touching and immensely loveable. She’s the
heart of this moving novel, and her voice makes it sing’HELEN DUNMORE, author of Ingo.
‘Brilliant’
MAIL ON SUNDAY
Buy this together with The Burying Beetle and get both books for £10! Visit the Luath website for more details.
