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haley_s 's review for:
Only Killers and Thieves
by Paul Howarth
adventurous
dark
emotional
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I liked how the author opened the story. You initially don't know which brother you're going to follow, and that is slowly revealed to you a few pages later. It eases you into Tommy's mindset, and you get an immediate feel for both of the brothers. The opening scenes also quickly set up the relationships between the main characters and their family, and the underlying tensions between Tommy's family and their wealthy neighbors. I also really liked the way the author handled the treatment of the Aborigine. While the overall treatment of this group of people was abhorrent, the relationship between Andy and Tommy's family shows that not all relationships between English settlers and the Aborigine were negative, and provides a drastic contrast to the way these people are hunted, as displayed in the opening scenes. It's a solid representation of the times and the way people thought while showing that there may have been some good relationships too.
The characterization of the villainous neighbor here was also interesting. While it's fairly obvious that this guy is no good, it's easy to see how, through a teenager's eyes, this man's character can be ambiguous or confusing as he works with and spends time with these two boys. I don't want to give away too much, but suffice to say, he's an excellent villain.
The writing provides a very clear sense of place. The descriptions are vivid, but not overly wordy, and the plot moves along quickly. Events happen in quick succession, but it doesn't feel overly fast paced.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It took me to a time and place that I'm not familiar with and showed how the struggle to survive in a new world can impact even the hardest working families.
The characterization of the villainous neighbor here was also interesting. While it's fairly obvious that this guy is no good, it's easy to see how, through a teenager's eyes, this man's character can be ambiguous or confusing as he works with and spends time with these two boys. I don't want to give away too much, but suffice to say, he's an excellent villain.
The writing provides a very clear sense of place. The descriptions are vivid, but not overly wordy, and the plot moves along quickly. Events happen in quick succession, but it doesn't feel overly fast paced.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It took me to a time and place that I'm not familiar with and showed how the struggle to survive in a new world can impact even the hardest working families.