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A review by kateybellew
Julia and the Shark by Kiran Millwood Hargrave
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
The strong voice of the protagonist Julia, combined with the luscious nature writing, makes this children’s book pretty special. The gorgeous two-tone illustrations by Tom de Freston are captivating and a few took my breath away.
This an emotional story of search and discovery, both literal and psychological. Julia and her parents spend the summer on a remote island while Julia’s mother desperately searches for a Greenland shark. However, things unravel as Julia’s mum’s behaviour and emotions becomes more erratic and turbulent.
Spoilers and content warnings: Julia’s mum has Bipolar Disorder. After experiencing mania, she dives into a depressive episode and attempts suicide. It is also made clear the method used in the suicide attempt, which I don’t personally think was necessary.
*Proof*
This an emotional story of search and discovery, both literal and psychological. Julia and her parents spend the summer on a remote island while Julia’s mother desperately searches for a Greenland shark. However, things unravel as Julia’s mum’s behaviour and emotions becomes more erratic and turbulent.
Spoilers and content warnings: Julia’s mum has Bipolar Disorder. After experiencing mania, she dives into a depressive episode and attempts suicide. It is also made clear the method used in the suicide attempt, which I don’t personally think was necessary.
*Proof*
Content Warnings
Moderate: Suicide, Suicide attempt, Mental illness, Bullying, and Racism
The method of suicide is mentioned.