by Liz Hyder
UK Cover Design by Yeti Lambregts Sticker Design by Barnaby Edwards
Published by Pushkin Press
A Sarah Odedina Book
One of a kind!
This book does not fit into any single category & it definitely didn't come out of any mould. OK yes, we could say that about so many books - but this is a real individual with a character all of its own!
Told from the perspective of Newt, with secrets & troubles, we are drawn into the dark, claustrophobic world of coal mining & forced labour. It's just horrific to think that children so young spent time in the mines instead of being in school. They were so poorly paid & treated. Some would never get the chance to escape that life & just be children.
Greed of the mine bosses & the usual idea of putting productivity & money before anything else is predictably front and centre.
When a new guy arrives & tries to shake things up, Newt keeps feelings inside but how long can someone really do that? So many issues are touched upon in this fast-paced, incredible novel. Class, religion, coming of age, education, friendship & the importance of having the strength to stand up for what's right.
Being down in the mines so young, Newt hasn't even had the chance to learn the basics of the alphabet or spelling but has time with (older) best friend, Thomas & has lessons. There's mention of pit ponies too, who hardly ever saw the light of day. It's sad days like this actually existed.
Will Newt get to escape? To see & smell the green grass of the real world or get to enjoy the sun, moon & fresh air of a new life?
This is definitely one for the older reader, given the nature of the material - some violence & mistreatment of children.
Bearmouth is written how Newt thinks things are spelled & it could be a surprise to the reader - unless you've researched! It's nothing cryptic at all, not difficult to understand but a few people might find it a bit jarring. An ideal option might be to listen to the audio as you follow along. The unique style did not take away from the experience of the story. In fact it added a new, textural dimension for me.
Liz Hyder is a fascinating new voice in children's literature & I'm sure we shall be seeing some more must-reads in the near future.
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