The mimosa tree by Antonella Preto

Fremantle Press, 2013. ISBN 9781922089199.
Highly recommended. The mimosa tree by Antonella Preto is a good book and extremely relatable. It focuses on Mira, an Australian-Italian girl who has just finished school and has no idea what she wants to do with her life. She is worried about the Cold War - and is anticipating nuclear warfare whilst trying to make her way through university. And at the same time, doing what her family wants her to.
I found Mira easy to relate to, as a Year 12 student who is not sure what to do with their life after school. Mira struggles with things that are entirely realistic. There were some situations which I could not completely relate to - specifically those to do with drugs. But apart from that, it was easy to envisage this story about life.
I would recommend this novel to people who enjoy historical novels which are relevant today, as well as teen girls who are looking for a book that could be applicable to them. I would also recommend it to anyone who has read - and enjoyed reading - Looking for Alibrandi, by Melina Marchetta, as it has many of the same themes.
While parts of the book are slightly sad, it is a realistic and touching look into the life and hardships of a 17 year old girl.
Jasmine Wiese (student)