It was raining one afternoon and so the heating went on. It seemed an ideal time to begin something new- written by an author who automatically gets bumped to the top of the pile every time.
Storm Child is set on the cold sea, where surfing is perfect and fishing a main income. When a storm takes her father’s boat, he barely survives and a new idea takes shape for the entire family. The Penrose family have always lived by the sea and they feel a need to be near water. Deciding to move to Paradise seems a likely choice, though Maya isn’t sure they have thought it all through.
Arriving on this small island knowing no one, Maya is missing home and is finding this new life lonely. Her parents are constantly working to make ends meet and the only potential friend she has is not the most forthcoming with her friendship.
Over time Maya and Kalani form a bond over sailing. They spend time on the water and both love the experience. When Maya pushes Kalani to go out one afternoon, things take a turn for the worse and they end up injured and stranded. Together they find a way to save each other and themselves.
Courageous and true, Maya finally finds the voice to stand up to her parents and find a way to make things work, but will that be in Paradise or Penrose?
Beautifully written and compelling, I read this in one cosy sitting. Ele writes with heart, her characters leap off the page and while the content is serious and thought-provoking, the story is heartfelt.
My Shelves Are Full 