Children's Book review

Scarlett

By Cathy Cassidy

Published by Puffin

Twelve year old Scarlett is a rebel: outrageous clothes, tongue stud, total contempt for authority and thinks she is totally cool. Inside she constantly mourns the loss of the perfect family life she remembers before her father left, and bitterly resents the super-efficient mother who hasn't time for her.

As a result she refuses to become part of her father's new happy family life, particularly the easy going and loving Clare, her father's pregnant wife.

However, when Scarlett meets a mysterious boy riding a black horse, she begins to feel a new calm and happiness. Scarlett's story is often funny, but the serious hurt she is feeling is ever present.

There is a magical timelessness to the story, added by the constant references to ancient Irish folklore.

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Reading age: 9+
Interest level: 11+