Author:Linda Newbery
The Shell House is a beautifully written and sensitive portrayal of love, sexuality and spirituality over two generations. Greg's casual interest in the history of a ruined mansion becomes more personal as he slowly discovers the tragic events that overwhelmed its last inhabitants. Set against a background of the modern day and the First World War, Greg's contemporary beliefs become intertwined with those of Edmund, a foot soldier whose confusion about his sexuality and identity mirrors Greg's own feelings of insecurity. This is a complex and thought-provoking book, written with elegance and subtlety. It will change the way you think.
Powerful, challenging reading for older teens
—— Sunday MirrorCompelling . . . Elegiac, even literary
—— David Self , TESCelevrly intertwines two stories and encompasses some big themes . . . Intelligent and perceptive
—— GuardianA novel to read, think about, and then read again
—— Independent[An] enjoyably meaty read . . . Newbery writes wonderfully
—— Financial TimesJacqueline Wilson has a distinctive narrative style with her spunky and articulate young heroines . . . A funny, punchy and quite moving read
—— The Bookseller on DOUBLE ACTTwo worlds conflate in this evocative and moving novel about the healing power of memory.
—— Oxford TimesGeras conveys well the difficulties of relating to a colonial community and being the new child...
—— Books for KeepsThis is a substantial novel suitable for readers of 13+
—— InisBright and very descriptive . . .this book will stay with you forever
—— TBK magIt has a slightly slow start but soon you will be glued to the covers
—— Independent on SundayShort review
—— The Good Book Guide