SALE ON KIDS & YA BOOKS • COOL! SHOW ME
ABBEY'S BOOKSELLER PICK ----- When the most popular boy in Year 11 is killed in a car accident, the whole school is plunged into shock and mourning. But Stella can't join in with the widespread grief, because she knows something none of the others are aware of - most particularly Grace, his beautiful, kind and just-as-popular official girlfriend. Isaac was seeing her and he had promised to break it off with Grace… Stella already has problems, including anger issues, and is seeing a therapist. She has constructed a persona that doesn't entirely fit her, but she's stuck, and just waiting for the time when she has more control. So when she inadvertently strikes up a deep friendship with Grace (who still doesn't know about Isaac's infidelity), and starts to see she has no monopoly on troubles, Stella discovers what she is truly capable of - and it's not all flattering. A fine novel with a believable voice and characters. It deals with big issues honestly, but there are moments of light and self-deprecating humour. A fabulous debut from a talented author indeed! Lindy
Biffy James holds a Masters degree in Creative Writing from RMIT, and has previously worked as a boarding school house mother. She writes realistic and contemporary fiction that captures the heartbreaking and hilarious day-to-day life of the modern teenager. Insta: @biffy_james
ABBEY'S BOOKSELLER PICK ----- When the most popular boy in Year 11 is killed in a car accident, the whole school is plunged into shock and mourning. But Stella can't join in with the widespread grief, because she knows something none of the others are aware of - most particularly Grace, his beautiful, kind and just-as-popular official girlfriend. Isaac was seeing her and he had promised to break it off with Grace… Stella already has problems, including anger issues, and is seeing a therapist. She has constructed a persona that doesn't entirely fit her, but she's stuck, and just waiting for the time when she has more control. So when she inadvertently strikes up a deep friendship with Grace (who still doesn't know about Isaac's infidelity), and starts to see she has no monopoly on troubles, Stella discovers what she is truly capable of - and it's not all flattering. A fine novel with a believable voice and characters. It deals with big issues honestly, but there are moments of light and self-deprecating humour. A fabulous debut from a talented author indeed! Lindy
‘It's a rare book that makes me feel such a kismet connection; like I was fated to need it and read it at this point in time – so tender and true, honest and heartfelt as to pierce me now as an adult, while simultaneously making me yearn for my younger teenage self to have had this book too. James is that rare talent that captures the voice, grief, messiness, and hope of youth so beautifully – perfect for fans of all ages who also love Holly Bourne, Sally Rooney, Courtney Summers and Adam Silvera.’ – Danielle Binks, author of The Monster of Her Age ‘The writing is fresh funny, smart and insightful. Themes of grief, mental health, fractured families, body image, consent and friendship are handled with honesty and sensitivity.’ – AussieKidsBooks.com ‘This debut YA novel ... is told from the perspective of Stella Wilde, an amusing, sardonic teenager who’s just starting to figure out who she is. After agreeing to go to one therapist appointment, Stella accidentally (and literally) runs into Isaac Calder, the hottest guy at school. This leads to an unexpected friendship – and more. There’s only one problem: Isaac’s girlfriend Grace, who’s gorgeous and kind and adored by everyone. Presented in James’ accessible and relatable style, the complex interplay between these characters explores tough topics, such as mental health, consent, first love and grief. Completely Normal (and Other Lies) is recommended for ages 13+.’ – Claire Atherfold, Readings ‘An authentic, sensitive story of love and grief in all types of relationships, and the power of true friendship.’ – CBCA Book of the Year: Older Readers
