The Summer of Telling Tales

This compelling teenage novel is told in the alternating voices of sisters Ellie and Grace, whose lives are turned upside down when their mum plucks up courage to leave their abusive father. As the sisters begin to build new lives and find new happiness, they learn about the nature of family, friendships and themselves.

This is a thoughtful, balanced novel which deals responsibly with an important subject: Summers communicates a clear message  that it is essential to let someone know if you experiencing violence or abuse. Whilst a few plot twists may feel a touch convenient, this is overall an engaging family story that will appeal to fans of Jacqueline Wilson and Cathy Cassidy.