ISBN-13: 9781849398855
RRP: £7.99
Published: 8th March 2011
Length: 336 Pages
Danny Dawson lives in the middle of the Australian outback. His older brother Jonny was killed in an accident last year but no-one ever talks about it.
And now it's time for the annual muster. The biggest event of the year on the cattle station, and a time to sort the men from the boys. But this year things will be different: because Jonny's gone and Danny's determined to prove he can fill his brother's shoes; because their fourteen-year-old sister is pregnant; because it's getting hotter and hotter and the rains won't come; because cracks are beginning to show . . .
When Danny's mum admits she can't cope, the family hires a housegirl to help out - a wide-eyed English backpacker. She doesn't have a clue what she's let herself in for. And neither do they.
"Engrossing . . . an extremely promising debut"
Guardian
"A stunning coming-of-age story with a gripping Australian outback setting and a strong and interesting plot. A debut novel to look out for."
Julia Eccleshare - Lovereading
"Lewis adds a cast of striking local characters and a convincing knowledge of life in the outback. This is a debut coming of age novel that exudes a raw reality reflected in the language and in prevailing attitudes to Aborigines, Pommies, women and what constitutes a real man. It will well repay attention from male teen readers and makes Ali Lewis one to watch."
Books for Keeps
"A harsh but beautiful coming-of-age story with a sweeping cinematic feel...a cracking debut."
The Scotsman
"Gripping and realistic . . . an outstandingly strong first novel."
Susan Elkin - Independent on Sunday