I first discovered this author when I read The Stories Grandma Forgot (and how I found them) several months ago. It was an absolute page turner, a story of hope, heart and family. It was also told in verse, something I have come to appreciate and respect as an art form and incredible way to tell a story.
Spotting Estie Noor on Netgalley, I immediately requested and once downloaded, it was near on impossible to stop reading. Estie has been expelled from school but it hasn’t strengthened her or her relationship with her mum. It has pushed her truth and her voice deep inside. When she is sent to live with her Aunt Ru for the summer, Estie begins to heal and to discover more about herself.
She also learns more about her mum and aunt, fiery sisters who grew up together in a town that adored them. Estie finds a new home and begins to find ways to share her voice and truth. She and new friend Idris, also discover a mystery to be solved. Discovering an intricate paper castle, the pair discover a clue that leads them to a story, a truth needing to be told.
The community around this story is welcoming, diverse, inclusive and they form a family. When secrets are discovered, truths revealed and artists vindicated, the Noor family can finally reunite.
Verse novels have this power to hit right to the heart of the story. Characters are fully formed and share their traits while the plot unfolds quickly and with power. Verse novels are an absolute must for my reading diet and I truly hope for more from Nadine. She writes with a truth about heritage, family and having a voice. I love her style, characters and use of language.
If you haven’t yet discovered the talents of Nadine, then I urge you to visit your local library or bookstore.
My Shelves Are Full 