When Maudie's Dad died of cancer, her family's world imploded. Both Maudie and her Mum barely had chance to grieve as they needed to care for Jake, Maudie's brother, who has profound difficulties. Now, two years later, Maudie is making plans for her future at college alongside best friend Izzy, her Mum, however, really cannot cope and suddenly leaves. Maudie finds that legally she cannot care for Jake on her own and their Aunt Eve sends Jake into temporary foster care. Maudie decides that she must get Mum back and 'kidnaps' Jake to travel to Cornwall, a place of happy memories.
As part of our school reading programme I had to read Darbon's last book' Rosie Loves Jack' with my form group. They loved the story and it takes a lot to get through to 15-year-olds! Therefore I had high expectations of this book and was not disappointed. Darbon is very clear that she writes to show that people with disabilities have thoughts and feelings and she promotes independence as well as highlighting negative attitudes. Maudie is a misguided but feisty heroine and, although the plot is as creaky as a caravan (!), it's a great book. I'm sure my form would love this as well. ( )