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tildahlia's review
3.0
Possibly linked to my general disinterest in growing up/coming of age stories generally, this book didn't entirely grip me. Clarke tells important stories about the racism hard-baked into Australia's "multicultural" society, which white Australia needs to hear and grapple with, but I found the writing not the strongest.
irisdono's review
5.0
This is definitely not something I would have read if it wasn’t a prescribed year 12 text, but i’m glad it was. Beneba Clarke’s writing style in this is like nothing i’ve ever come across and it encapsulated me in a way i haven’t been before and caused me to annotate a way I never have before.
Some moments felt slightly dragged on and some slightly too short, but ultimately as a reflection of her life that’s bound to happen. It’s clear in what it wants to discuss whilst leaving the door open for personal reflection on not just what the reader does, but what’s happening to them, or else what’s a story for.
Some moments felt slightly dragged on and some slightly too short, but ultimately as a reflection of her life that’s bound to happen. It’s clear in what it wants to discuss whilst leaving the door open for personal reflection on not just what the reader does, but what’s happening to them, or else what’s a story for.
esshgee's review
4.0
4 1/2 stars. This book made me feel angry, sad, happy, and teary. And it brought up a lot of memories. Maxine Clarke has a wonderful way of telling a story, allowing you to be immersed in her life. A must-read
amerasuu's review against another edition
5.0
Honestly this is one of the most challenging books I've ever read. I'm aware Australia has a racism problem, my own family are very racist. Reading the accounts of a 4 year old being bullied for being black are heartbreaking. I think everyone needs to read this and feel uncomfortable. Maxine grew up in Kellyville, a suburb I have lived in myself, she's only a few years older than me.
lugalante's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
fast-paced
4.5
Very thankful for stories that show other perspectives of often idealised Australian childhood. Brought up tough memories for me yet still left me in a place of hope.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Racial slurs, Bullying, and Hate crime
Minor: Slavery
nicmacc's review
5.0
Brilliant.... but sad, great book! Book was set where I grew up in Sydney so I could relate in a small part to what she went through.
ronbert's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
informative
reflective
tense
fast-paced
5.0
scarlettmg's review
5.0
An absolutely stunning book. Insightful, funny and confronting this book offers a refreshing perspective on an Australian childhood. A perspective that should no longer be on the periphery. I am very grateful to have read this and can’t wait to read more by Maxine Beneba Clarke.