Ousedale Olney

Birdie
Not a bad read. The 'thee' and 'thou' was really irritating- the book is set in the 50's and there is no other olde English used. I did like the Birdie character and her aunt and uncle quickly became so beloved. Having grown up with grand parents alive during WW2 the racism did not surprise me and I thought it was very well dealt with- however, not dealt with clearly enough for the younger reader to understand the importance. Mr Duke- all my fears and tears were for him. Thank goodness it was a happy ending.

Debbie

Wolf Siren
One of the most empowering book I have read all year! I loved all the feminism and how the story plot grows. Although I think that they could keep Areona, I enjoyed getting to know all the different characters and all the personality traits, especially Reds. But I think that the ending could include what happens to Wilson it would be better but overall I really enjoyed it.

Imogen Humphrey

Birdie
My thoughts on Birdie varied throughout the book. At the beginning, I loved the touch of racism to add the reality of what it is like for a black girl in 1952. The pony Mr Duke was a personal favourite as I believed that it was a personal support animal and Birdie's best friend. Birdie had a heart and soul along with Mr Walter who was kind from the beginning however it took a lot for my head to change about aunt Mabel. I would of liked to see more of Julie and also Mrs Dudley's and Birdie's childhood. Overall my verdict is that it was a great read and a great adventure to dive into.

Lilah Jeavons

Not Going To Plan
Having previously read and LOVED Crossing the Line I was ready for her verse written style. Just as before I was unenamoured to start but soon drawn in by Zed and Marnie and the alternate telling. Another funny and moving, realistic tale of friendship, making mistakes and how, where and when to seek help. The book doesn't shy away from YA issues and, more importantly, doesn't give you the answers. Felt all the art stuff at the end was a bit much and I don't think she needed to change her display last minute. Overall a great read.

Debbie

Twenty Four Seconds from Now
Whilst the book has a realistic storyline and characters , I found the main concept contentious (U16 school) and was not a fan of the backwards structure. Also, sometimes the writing was in quite a cultural style, not just the spoken words, but other times written in 'The Queen's' english. The book/story never found its groove for me. It would have been a better read if written in the order occurred as would have been a clearer story and not felt like abstract bits of someone's life. Not a winner for me.

Debbie