Reviews

First of all - thank you so much to Sharna for sending me a signed paperback advance copy of this book! I first got to know her through BBC Radio 1 DJ Greg James' "Pass The Pen" takeover she did of his Twitter account a few years back, and when I saw she was gearing up to release a book, I sent her an Instgram message, saying "maybe I'll try and get an ARC of this!". But, she offered to send me a paperback. I've never read any of her books before, so I was super excited to give it a go. And, after exams and life generally getting in the way, I devoured the majority of this book in just a few days.

The Good Turn is a book set in present-day England, and follows three Year 6 students, narrated by protagonist Josie. She's inspired by Josephine Holloway, who formed the first group of Girl Scouts for Black children, and decides to set up a group of her own with her neighbours Margot and Wesley - the Copseys.

This book's narrative, character development, rooting in historical context and picture-painting is absolutely fantastic, and I think it's a must read for any older primary school pupil and above. I loved Margot and Wesley's friendship development in particular, as well as how Wesley calls out Jo's focus on herself, and her self-realisation. The book kept me guessing, too - even when I thought the end was looking bleak, a sort of semi-resolution was formed, and I think that was the perfect way to tie up the book.

I mentioned how the book is rooted in context - after the book has finished, there's a short author's note, where Sharna explains how the book's events reflect the harsh reality of deportation and the Windrush Generation. It's so essential that we're aware of these issues of our past, and children may not have been taught about them in schools. This book taught me the stark reality of immigrants living in the UK, and how their worlds can be turned upside down without warning.

I truly believe that The Good Turn is an essential read for any child old enough, and people of my age and older are still be able to enjoy it. Sharna tackles real-world issues beautifully within a thrilling and informative book. I can't wait to read more of Sharna's work.

_nem_'s review against another edition

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adventurous emotional mysterious sad medium-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? It's complicated

2.75

bluewithstars's review

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adventurous emotional informative inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

An outstanding read from Sharna Jackson. I was so sure I knew where the story was going and what would happen. Oh no, there are twists and turns everywhere, along with some hard hitting honesty. A brilliant and original story.