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katykelly's review against another edition
5.0
An early Swindells with a shocking storyline, some admirable young characters and a lot to think about
Martha is an outcast at school, in homemade uniform and different to the others in her Year 8 class. Scott is a new boy who, at first, joins in with the taunting, but soon wants to know more about the girl in his class who doesn't react, who doesn't speak out.
It's a story that's now been covered a few times since this was written - a family living as part of a religious sect, and Martha and Scott begin to trust and like each other, as Martha gradually lets her new friend into her secret home life.
For young readers, this may be an eye-opener. I loved the portrayal of Martha, her development as a young woman finding her voice is well drawn. Scott, I sometimes found spoke in a voice too mature for a 13-year old boy, but I really liked the portrayal of their relationship.
It could have been a much darker book, with some scenes more graphically represented for older readers, but there is just enough detail for the target audience without it becoming too adult. Martha's parents are sketchily drawn as stereotypical religious types, but it is clear to the reader just who they are and how they control Martha.
Despite this book feeling quite out of date now (Blur is the 'in' band, you dial up using a modem to access the Internet), this world is within the grasp of contemporary teens.
I sped though this, at only 200 pages. With the short chapters alternating between Martha and Scott, it moves quickly and to a tense climax. It's almost a Barrington Stoke Quick Read and may appeal to their 'reluctant reader' base.
Excellent choice for class reading and discussion, no unsuitable language or graphic violence. A wonderful completing ending as well, satisfying.
One for ages 10-14.
Martha is an outcast at school, in homemade uniform and different to the others in her Year 8 class. Scott is a new boy who, at first, joins in with the taunting, but soon wants to know more about the girl in his class who doesn't react, who doesn't speak out.
It's a story that's now been covered a few times since this was written - a family living as part of a religious sect, and Martha and Scott begin to trust and like each other, as Martha gradually lets her new friend into her secret home life.
For young readers, this may be an eye-opener. I loved the portrayal of Martha, her development as a young woman finding her voice is well drawn. Scott, I sometimes found spoke in a voice too mature for a 13-year old boy, but I really liked the portrayal of their relationship.
It could have been a much darker book, with some scenes more graphically represented for older readers, but there is just enough detail for the target audience without it becoming too adult. Martha's parents are sketchily drawn as stereotypical religious types, but it is clear to the reader just who they are and how they control Martha.
Despite this book feeling quite out of date now (Blur is the 'in' band, you dial up using a modem to access the Internet), this world is within the grasp of contemporary teens.
I sped though this, at only 200 pages. With the short chapters alternating between Martha and Scott, it moves quickly and to a tense climax. It's almost a Barrington Stoke Quick Read and may appeal to their 'reluctant reader' base.
Excellent choice for class reading and discussion, no unsuitable language or graphic violence. A wonderful completing ending as well, satisfying.
One for ages 10-14.
sheena_sherburn's review against another edition
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
justash2000's review against another edition
4.0
Was a nice easy read. Was not the plot twist I was expecting but had a good ending. Nice book to break things up.
samharnold's review against another edition
5.0
This book starts as a book about a religious cult. As the story unravels though you come to realise in essence this book is a simple love story. Martha who is 12 is different from other kids —no TV, no computer, no cool clothes, and especially no friends. That is until she meets Scott a new boy to the school.
Both characters are engaging and well written. This is my second Robert Swindells novel and I was not disappointed. The cults rules dominate all Martha’s life but not as much as the secret her parents are hiding. Abomination is in the cellar and cannot be revealed. As Scott and Martha become closer will Abomination be revealed?
The story charts the struggle Martha has. With both juggling her families rules with her blossoming friendship with Scott. Every page turn takes us closer to the conclusion. This book is a real page turner I could not put down. The quick pace and intriguing plot makes it a must read for all ages.
Anyone who likes a thrilling read that keeps you guessing to the end must read Abomination. I will be picking up more from this author.
Both characters are engaging and well written. This is my second Robert Swindells novel and I was not disappointed. The cults rules dominate all Martha’s life but not as much as the secret her parents are hiding. Abomination is in the cellar and cannot be revealed. As Scott and Martha become closer will Abomination be revealed?
The story charts the struggle Martha has. With both juggling her families rules with her blossoming friendship with Scott. Every page turn takes us closer to the conclusion. This book is a real page turner I could not put down. The quick pace and intriguing plot makes it a must read for all ages.
Anyone who likes a thrilling read that keeps you guessing to the end must read Abomination. I will be picking up more from this author.
pixiegnerd's review against another edition
5.0
I read this book in school and loved it. Reread it now and still love it.
It is so well written split between the characters and keeps you captivated.
It is so well written split between the characters and keeps you captivated.
mayjulyn's review against another edition
dark
hopeful
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying and Child abuse
iremyln's review against another edition
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
fatimamahate's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed this book. Robert Swindells is the best
hmorgz11's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0