by Emily Koch
Cover Design by Dan Mogford
Published by Harvill Secker an imprint of Vintage part of Penguin Random House UK
Top marks for the thought that went into the hardcover artwork but also this proof design.
I LOVE creativity like this!
I am sure a lot of people will relate to many nostalgic elements of this story as we're transported back to the 90s & into July's interesting but often VERY difficult world.
A story about family secrets, grief and growing up. It’s 1995 and July Hooper is turning 10 years old.
*July knows 18 things about her mother. But her death remains a mystery*
She has a list of questions too - in a notebook - but never dares to write 'mum' or her mother's name. Instead, famous names are used in case anyone finds & reads it.
*Did Celine Dion prefer skirts or trousers?* is one example.
July's dad is a man with a VERY ugly temper. Maybe anger & conflicting emotions have been brewing for many years but there's no excuse for the way he treats July & her step-mum.
Emily Koch's writing draws us completely into the lives of her eclectic collection of complex characters & makes our connection, whether positive or negative, instantly evident.
July's captivating personality is only brought down by the tangible sadness readers might feel about her personal outlook - thinking she deserves a mean father & the 'lessons' that result in bruises.
Details of the mid-nineties are skillfully sprinkled through the story & provide some light relief from the underlying grey emotional tension that is the photo-negative of the sun flickering through trees.
Incorporating many throwback items (some still available in 2023) we re-visit White Musk perfume, Pogs & a lucky slammer, Flumps, strawberry Millions & white chocolate mice. Humour also effortlessly tiptoes its way into the writing. I particularly enjoyed an example with Sylvie's unexpected (& partly used) birthday gift to July:
J : 'Oh my God, oh my God! Is this White Musk? But I thought you said ---' S: 'You were more of a Dewberry girl. Yes. But now that you're turning ten, like me, maybe you're mature enough to pull it off.'
The story & characters are multi-layered & we sometimes have to be just patient enough to let the story reveal itself. Previously hidden nuggets of information, in turn, unveil new twists with mini explosions of shock.
Though there's such obvious negativity encountered as we're exploring lives so disrupted by hidden domestic violence, this story is written with a creative sensitivity that definitely deserves applause & recognition.
You might be shocked at a few developments in this story - even if you think you might have guessed one or two details.
Letters interspersed throughout the book make the reader wonder what happened to provoke them. You'll find out along the way but you might be surprised!
Whilst this is not the easiest read, July is a very lovable character & you just can't help cheering for her.
If you treasure a gorgeous hardback, go for it! If you prefer a paperback, it's out in JULY!!
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