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Content snapshot
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Violence
Barely any
No significant violence
Language
Some
Adult language in the Australian YA register; authentic to its setting
Sexual Content
Barely any
Mild YA content; some relationships explored
Substance Use
Barely any
Some teen drinking and smoking in the Australian school setting
Emotional Intensity
Some
The psychological weight of a family suddenly unable to function — and a daughter having to hold it together — gives the novel its emotional depth and authority
What this book is about
Melina Marchetta's acclaimed Australian YA novel follows Francesca, a girl who transfers to a newly co-educational Catholic school against her will. When her vivid, energetic mother is suddenly incapacitated by severe depression, Francesca must navigate both the new school and the family's loss of its center. Marchetta writes with authenticity and emotional intelligence; the depiction of maternal depression is honest and affecting. A significant coming-of-age novel. Some language and adult situations appropriate to Australian YA.
Notes for sensitive readers
Reader-flagged moments and themes that may affect your experience.
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