Penni Russon's first novel, Undine, was named a Notable Book of the Year by the Children's Book Council of Australia. Ms. Russon grew up in a bush suburb of Hobart, where there was snow in winter and bushfires in summer. She now lives in Melbourne with her young family, and every winter she dreams of snow.
First-time novelist Penni Russon has brought together fantasy, friendship, family, contemporary coming-of-age and a touch of romance—a combination that should appeal particularly to female readers. Undine (‘sea nymph’) lives in Hobart with her mother and young brother, and next-door to her best friend, Trout, and his brothers. The discovery of strange and increasing powers—including hearing voices, dream objects appearing in the real world and the ability to change the weather—is complicated by having to negotiate Trout’s changing feelings, and her own feelings about his elder brother. Why is she being called ‘home’, and by whom? Is her father really dead, or has her mother lied? Why is there sand on Undine’s bedroom floor? Allusions to Shakespeare’s The Tempest become more pointed as the novel progresses to its climax. Secondary characters are generally well-drawn, although Prospero’s relationship with Undine by the conclusion was a little unbelievable. The novel flows well, storylines intertwine effectively as the book progresses, and characters, particularly Trout and Undine, are likeable. An engaging read. Sue Page lectures in children’s literature at the University of South Australia. C. 2004 Thorpe-Bowker and contributors
Gr 7 Up-Undine isn't your ordinary teenage girl. She doesn't like Tuesdays, has a best friend named Trout, and can cause storms to form out of thin air. She comes from a tight-knit family that includes her mother, brother, and aunt. She has always been told that her father died before she was born but a mysterious whispering voice convinces her that he is still alive. Trout, thanks to his love of Shakespeare, links the words that the voice is speaking with The Tempest. After the book itself appears in her house, Undine figures out where the voice is calling from and goes to meet her father. Teens will empathize with this girl who has magical powers that she can't control and a desire for a father who loves her for herself, not the powers she possesses or what he can gain from them. The strength of Russon's writing and the intensity of the story itself will draw readers to Undine, but they will also find some familiar themes, such as unrequited love, reflected in her best friend, Trout. Australia creates an interesting backdrop and readers will enjoy some of the unfamiliar slang. This novel offers readers a new and interesting magical twist as well as a surprise ending.-June H. Keuhn, Corning East High School, NY Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.
 |
Ask a Question About this Product More... |
|
