KES Bookworms

Play
Play by Luke Palmer was a thoroughly enjoyable read. Not only was the plot interesting and not overdramatic but the characters were also described thoughtfully and their backstories were really impactful. The 4 main characters, Matt, Mark, Luc and Johnny were completely different and allowed many different perspectives of the events that unfolded during the book and there was a real sense of friendship between them especially when there was tension. The plot was very engaging as well as sad as it dealt with difficult topics such as drugs and showed the complex emotions of the characters going through these times. I also thought that the journey from innocent childhood to a more mature understanding of the world was created beautifully. I think the most shocking part of the book was the end. It was very unexpected and had a different tone underlying it but for me it didn't impact the sincerity of the story or my love for it. A definite 10/10!

Jemimah

Little Bang
Little Bang is a heart-breaking, engaging book that explores relationships in times of struggle as well as the journey to make abortion legal in Ireland. Using Mel's story, the book seeks to share the importance of making your own choices and not feeling ashamed of them even if others disagree. It also warns of the dangers of abortion through Sid's point of view whilst still maintaining that females have most of the struggle during childbirth. I thought that Mel and Sid were crafted really well especially due to the conflicting sense of childhood maturing unwantedly into adulthood. I really liked the balance between their sweet relationship but also the realistic nature of two teenagers being faced with a challenging situation. The development of the story was also expertly crafted because as the story progressed it shared slowly the secrets they begin to keep from each other and describes the pain they experience because of it. Overall, my favourite part of this novel was the ending because it was thoughtful as well as heart-wrenching. I would thoroughly recommend this book to others.

Jemimah