Robin

Eddie’s little sister, Scarlet, is very ill. Having been born with a heart condition, she often needs medical care, taking all his parents’ time and attention. Eddy loves Scarlet very much- but sometimes he feels invisible to others and focuses all his attention on being a ‘good’ boy, bottling up all his emotions and keeping the ‘monster’ they create deep inside. Whilst Scarlet faces another surgery, Eddie goes to stay with his Uncle John where he meets a robin in the snowy forest. This bird leads him to a mysterious wild girl, who wants him to find his voice and free his feelings…

‘Robin’ is sensitively written, poignant novel which explores the impact on a family of a serious illness. She has captured a loving, close family, who are each under the enormous strain of worry which Scarlet’s illness has caused, allowing the reader to empathise, not only with Scarlet, but Eddie and his parents as well. It is an incredibly powerful, well-considered story.

The healing power of nature is at the heart of the book as Uncle John encourages Eddie to share his secrets and thoughts with the trees whose ability to communicate and support one another reflects his deep need and desire to be really seen and supported by the people around him. Icy, snowy conditions enhance his feelings of isolation yet allow him to tune into the sustaining sounds of nature, eventually contrasting with the warmth of friendship and family.

As Eddie finds his voice through music and friendship, the whole family benefits from his bravery and honesty, becoming stronger as they acknowledge the importance of finding their ‘monstrous voice’. The beautiful writing is paired with evocative illustrations which enhance the magical, wintery atmosphere of the story. Adults thinking of sharing this with any child would be well advised to read it first, not only because it is well worth reading.

Robin

Sarah Ann Juckes, illustrated by Linde Faas

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398531055