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recorderkfk's review
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
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? N/A
5.0
I hope Danielle Binks writes more books. This debut novel unfolds itself beautifully like a many peddled flower. Or, to borrow an analogy from the book itself a big map. Freddie(Winifred) is a tween dealing with what the author fittingly calls "a redraw of her family map" - she and her stepdad, are welcoming her stepdad's new partner, who is expecting, and her son Sam into their new family.
In addition to the family landscape changing, Freddy's hometown must deal with the ramifications of operation Safe Haven, based on true events when Australia took in refugees from Kosovo in 1999.
Binks deftly balances multiple intertwined relationships in a way that brings the concepts of refugees, opposing opinions, immigration, colonialism, grief and family systems and much more in an accessible sphere for both kids and parents without sentiment or sugarcoat.
The result, is a moving, inspiring read that challenges us to reconsider the maps we follow.
In addition to the family landscape changing, Freddy's hometown must deal with the ramifications of operation Safe Haven, based on true events when Australia took in refugees from Kosovo in 1999.
Binks deftly balances multiple intertwined relationships in a way that brings the concepts of refugees, opposing opinions, immigration, colonialism, grief and family systems and much more in an accessible sphere for both kids and parents without sentiment or sugarcoat.
The result, is a moving, inspiring read that challenges us to reconsider the maps we follow.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Pregnancy
Moderate: Child death
Minor: Confinement
< pretty direct description of a stillborn child>
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