Marty's shadow by John Heffernan

(Age 13+) Recommended. This is a finely wrought tale about 16 year old Marty, a loner, resentful and riddled with doubts and terrifying memories. Marty has the care of his young brother Jack, as the boys' father is often working away. Left to their own devices by a largely uncaring and neglectful father since their mother had left, the two boys look after each other. Marty however, increasingly finds that his life is unbearable as he fights to remember whether his dreams about what has happened at the old quarry are real or imagined.
The voices of the solid and well-developed characters make this an unforgettable story. Marty's angst and his descent into shadows come to life as he battles with eerie memories from the past. Jack, youthful and less damaged by his mother's departure, comes across as an optimistic and very likeable young boy. The angry and grim man who is Marty's father grips the imagination and leaves the listener in fear for the boys.

Heffernan skillfully introduces his refugee family in the story giving Nariah a central role in befriending Marty and helping him to realise that his love of trees and skill with plants is worthwhile.
Pat Pledger