Notes on my Family

A perceptive and humorous account of family life told in a vivid, deadpan style that engages. Lou is is slightly autistic but her inability to sometimes really understand and engage with the world means that her 'notes' are full of unintended humour and perceptive comments. A books for both adults and young adults. Fast moving , a well knit plot and memorable characters, from Lou herself to her nan who goes to seances and her friend Faith who has six mums and dads , all gay. Lou knows how to sum up situations and characters and her asides make you laugh out loud. On hearing her dad referred to as someone's 'boyfriend': 'boyfriend didn't seem the right word for someone who is fast approaching forty-seven and owns socks that are older than I am."

A vivid present tense account of life in a dysfunctional family told by a perceptive thirteen year old girl. Lou's dad is in a relationship with a sixth former and her mum is caught shop-lifting and has a 'psychotic episode', but Lou stays cool keeping us informed of the changing scenes through her brilliant and understated notes.'Exceptional young adult/crossover debut reminiscent of Mark Haddon or Harper Lee. Compelling, sharply observed.'Nicolette Jones, SUNDAY TIMES BOOKS OF THE WEEK. 'Hilarious.' Mugglenet. Nominated for The Carnegie. An outstanding debut-funny, brave and unpredictable. Lou observes her family breaking apart in sharp witty asides. A beautiful blend of humour, insight, compassion and a touch of darkness. The narrator's voice is strong, funny and original.