Review
"A wonderful debut for many reasons ! What marks this book out is not just its charm, warmth and wit, but also the skill with which Valentine braids together the threads" The Guardian "No plot summary cando justice to the particular flavour of this book, both witty and with moments of genuine sweetness ! Excellent." Books for Keeps "Ultra-original and brilliantly written, this will have you laughing and crying too." Mizz Magazine "Has the originality of Mark Haddon, the immediacy of Jacqueline Wilson and the emotional connection of Kevin Brooks. It really does work." Jill Murphy, The Book Bag "A captivating novel from a compelling new voice in teen fiction!hilarious and dramatic in turns." Liverpool Echo "I loved every page of this extraordinary book; a completely unique and involving story!a great book which deserves to be read over and over again." Redhouse Review, Hannah Pitts age 15 "A great story, with a witty and believable main character." tBk mag "If Jenny Valentine doesn't start you reading, I'm not sure what will ! A very creative and highly original plot ! I would also recommend it to sneaky parents who like to snoop around their children's bookcases. But make sure you have time to spare, as you will be unable to put this book down!" Emily Decker, South Wales Argus "An unpredictable story full of suspense ! If you are looking for an original, creative, page-turner that is filled with mystery, look no further" Megan Davies, South Wales Argus
Product Description
Narrated by the most compelling voice since Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, this is a quirky and original voyage of self-discovery triggered by a lost urn of ashes. The mini cab office was up a cobbled mews with little flat houses either side. That's where I first met Violet Park, what was left of her. There was a healing centre next door, a pretty smart name for a place with a battered brown door and no proper door handle and stuck-on wooden numbers in the shape of clowns. The 3 of number 13 was a w stuck on sideways and I thought it was kind of sad and I liked it at the same time. Sixteen-year-old Lucas Swain becomes intrigued by the urn of ashes left in a cab office. Convinced that its occupant -- Violet Park -- is communicating with him, he contrives to gain possession of the urn, little realising that his quest will take him on a voyage of self-discovery and identity, forcing him to finally confront what happened to his absent (and possibly dead) father!
by Sherman Alexie
by Patrick Ness
