Another insightful and compassionate free verse novel from the queen of this increasingly admired form, this time exploring the transformative relationship between an abused runaway teenager and an elderly lady with dementia. Allison has grown up “stepping on eggshells” to circumvent her father’s violence. While she often wonders whether his behaviour was “all my fault”, one of his outbursts compels her to run away. With nowhere to go, she finds sanctuary in the house of an elderly woman called Marla. Marla has dementia and thinks Allison is Toffee, her best friend from childhood. After spending some time in Marla’s company, Allison decides to “stop correcting her… I like the idea of being sweet and hard, a girl with a name for people to chew on.” Moreover, in meeting Marla, Allison has found an unlikely kindred spirit: “I am not who I say I am. Marla isn’t who she thinks she is… Here, in this house, I am so much happier than I have ever been”. Returning the favour, Allison enriches Marla’s life – she listens, she indulges Marla’s desire to dance - while Marla’s carer and son show no real regard for her happiness, as if she’s beyond life, which makes Allison’s attentiveness all the more heart warming. Both vulnerable, they find strength through each other. With incredibly moving insight, Marla says of Allison’s dad, “none of it was about you. It was about him. It’s always about him. Surely you know that.” The writing is compellingly fluid, flowing freely between Allison’s precarious present and the tragic, abusive circumstances that sent her careering down this path. While fleeting, the impact of their time together is monumental, and I felt privileged to have spent time in their company. (Joanne Owen) ****** Have you ever thought about how fascinating the world can be when you open a book? Reading isn't just a routine activity, but also a limitless adventure into imagination and knowledge. Reading sharpens the mind, broadens horizons, and enriches vocabulary. It's a gateway to a world beyond our own that knows no bounds. Set aside a specific time each day for reading. Whether it's before bed or in the morning, the habit of reading can be formed with consistency. Choose books that suit your interests and reading level. Start with books that align with your desires and reading abilities. Find a quiet and comfortable place to read. Sufficient lighting, a comfortable chair, and a little background music can create a better reading experience. Join a reading group or literacy forum. Discuss the books you've read and get recommendations from fellow readers. Keep notes or a journal about the books you've read. Write down your thoughts, impressions, and lessons learned. Involve your family in reading activities. Read stories to your children or encourage them to read together. This creates strong family bonds through positive activities. Don't hesitate to explore new genres. Sometimes, the best surprises come from books you never thought you'd enjoy. Take advantage of technology by reading digital books or joining online literacy communities. This opens up opportunities to connect with readers from all over the world.