Sunday, March 17, 2013

Fire in the Sea by Myke Bartlett

Review


Fire in the Sea is an exciting mish-mash of ideas – Greek god mythology, adventure quest, time travel, drowned city dystopia, contemporary coming-of-age story. It is exciting to me that an author can make a story like this and set it in a very recognisable Perth. I really admire the scope and imagination of Fire in the Sea, and I think for the most part it all works together in an intriguing and cohesive way.

This book won the Text Prize in 2012, which is why I’ve had my eye on it for a while. I really enjoyed how it started off with a lazy, long-hot Summer vibe; there was great atmosphere and hints of contemporary romance. Then it very quickly got quite weird and very unique.

Sadie was a solid heroine, although at times I think she was a bit selfish and should have treated Tom better. He was one of my favourite characters, and he had a nice quiet strength. Jake the ‘love interest’ had a fair bit of charm too, though. I like the menace that the author created around the Minotaur figure, although I felt that all the other ‘baddies’ were adequate but so-so.

What kept me reading Fire in the Sea was its uniqueness, the exciting fantasy ideas and the thrill of not quite knowing what was going to happen next. I am very much looking forward to seeing what else Bartlett has up his sleeve.

First published by Text Publishing in 2012

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

WIN What the Raven Saw

There is a competition at the moment over at one of my favourite blogs/websitres, Kids Book Review, to win one of three copies of What the Raven Saw. Details here: WIN. It closes March 10.

There is also a new review of Raven up at KBR. This is what they say:

"This engaging fable-like novel is thoughtful, entertaining and very funny. The debut novel for Australian author Samantha-Ellen Bound,What the Raven Saw is refreshingly different and thoroughly engaging."

 I like!


Friday, March 1, 2013

Younger Sun Bookshop

Event


I will be at the amazing Younger Sun Bookshop tomorrow, to talk with kids about What the Raven Saw. Raven was their February book club pick. Can't wait to hear all their thoughts and answer questions. There will a signing at the store afterwards if you'd like to stop by. Pics to follow.