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The Eleventh Question
The first ten questions have already been asked. Who will ask the eleventh?
Fifteen-year-old Arista McGregor is in trouble - she is being bullied at school, her mother is put into rehab and she is sent to live with a foster carer. The foster carer is a vet and Arista isn’t what you would call an animal lover, in fact she’s terrified of the things. Like any teenager she asks questions, but the difference with Arista is that her questions may spark a chain of events that will change the world forever.
Fifteen-year-old Arista McGregor is in trouble - she is being bullied at school, her mother is put into rehab and she is sent to live with a foster carer. The foster carer is a vet and Arista isn’t what you would call an animal lover, in fact she’s terrified of the things. Like any teenager she asks questions, but the difference with Arista is that her questions may spark a chain of events that will change the world forever.
203 pages, Paperback
First published October 20, 2012
About the author
Dianne F. Gray
6 books18 followersI'm a writer and a dreamer. My latest short story was shortlisted in the top three of the 2016 Ruth Rendell Writing award, judged by Lynda La Plante. Some of my short stories have been published in Australian anthologies:
Harper Collins - "Enter"
Ginninderra Press - "The Lunatic, the Lover and the Poet"
Harlequin/MIRA press - "Scarlet Stiletto - The First Cut".
...and some of my novels have won awards.
The Everything Theory - IP Picks 2009
Let Sleeping Gods Lie - IP Picks 2007
Soul's Child - YouWriteOn Book of the Year 2012
Feel free to leave a comment - even if it's just to drop by and say hello
Harper Collins - "Enter"
Ginninderra Press - "The Lunatic, the Lover and the Poet"
Harlequin/MIRA press - "Scarlet Stiletto - The First Cut".
...and some of my novels have won awards.
The Everything Theory - IP Picks 2009
Let Sleeping Gods Lie - IP Picks 2007
Soul's Child - YouWriteOn Book of the Year 2012
Feel free to leave a comment - even if it's just to drop by and say hello
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
November 15, 2012
It all starts with "Who am I?"
It is the Seer and her Ayudante's job to oversee those who have the potential to ask the eleventh question. The idea is that since the beginning of mankind, humans have questioned their existence and purpose. To first time each question was asked, it led to consciousness and a paradigm shift across the face of the Earth. Each potential unknowingly starts from the first question ever asked and work through the ten. The eleventh question has never been asked and no one knows what repercussions it will have. The Seer oversees and helps those potentials. They are also to oversee the effects of the eleventh question.
Does my summary sound boring or dull? Well, the novel is anything but. Gray takes the reader into this world that's intriguing, unpredictable and fresh. Gray keeps her readers guessing. There are plenty of plot twists to leave the reader not knowing what to expect. I also thoroughly enjoyed the wide array of characters but in particular the two narrators: Arista and Cayo.
* Arista is a 15 year old girl who has a pretty crappy life. She is constantly being bullied- at school and online. Her parents divorced and she believes it was because her father didn't love her enough. Her mother is an alcoholic, a gambler, and has terrible taste in men. She is struggling with life and begins to question her own. She is a strong character who loves deeply.
* On the other hand there is Cayo who is the Seer's Ayudante. He is sensitive to the emotion of others and tends to feel his own very strongly. He is the Seer's connection to human emotions. He is strong and determined and can also be a total bad-ass. And from me, that's a compliment. His strength and morals had me absolutely loving his character
One thing however, that took away from the novel for me is that The Eleventh Question is very philosophical. To be honest, at times I would reread a line three of four times and finally come to the conclusion that no amount of re-reading would help me understand it. For example, one popular idea in the novel that kept me scratching my head in wonder is: that you should not 'mistake reality for truth.' I know many of you may understand this but I just couldn't wrap my head around it. At times I felt it was a bit too philosophical for me. Yet even this not take away from the overall awesomeness that is this novel.
The Eleventh Question is an interesting read to say the least. It was fresh and different and I really enjoyed it. The characters are realistic and relatable. It has it's suspense, action, humor, drama and you are hooked throughout. Definitely worth reading and am positively looking forward to it's sequel.
*I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review
*To see more of my reviews be sure to check out my blog
It is the Seer and her Ayudante's job to oversee those who have the potential to ask the eleventh question. The idea is that since the beginning of mankind, humans have questioned their existence and purpose. To first time each question was asked, it led to consciousness and a paradigm shift across the face of the Earth. Each potential unknowingly starts from the first question ever asked and work through the ten. The eleventh question has never been asked and no one knows what repercussions it will have. The Seer oversees and helps those potentials. They are also to oversee the effects of the eleventh question.
Does my summary sound boring or dull? Well, the novel is anything but. Gray takes the reader into this world that's intriguing, unpredictable and fresh. Gray keeps her readers guessing. There are plenty of plot twists to leave the reader not knowing what to expect. I also thoroughly enjoyed the wide array of characters but in particular the two narrators: Arista and Cayo.
* Arista is a 15 year old girl who has a pretty crappy life. She is constantly being bullied- at school and online. Her parents divorced and she believes it was because her father didn't love her enough. Her mother is an alcoholic, a gambler, and has terrible taste in men. She is struggling with life and begins to question her own. She is a strong character who loves deeply.
* On the other hand there is Cayo who is the Seer's Ayudante. He is sensitive to the emotion of others and tends to feel his own very strongly. He is the Seer's connection to human emotions. He is strong and determined and can also be a total bad-ass. And from me, that's a compliment. His strength and morals had me absolutely loving his character
One thing however, that took away from the novel for me is that The Eleventh Question is very philosophical. To be honest, at times I would reread a line three of four times and finally come to the conclusion that no amount of re-reading would help me understand it. For example, one popular idea in the novel that kept me scratching my head in wonder is: that you should not 'mistake reality for truth.' I know many of you may understand this but I just couldn't wrap my head around it. At times I felt it was a bit too philosophical for me. Yet even this not take away from the overall awesomeness that is this novel.
The Eleventh Question is an interesting read to say the least. It was fresh and different and I really enjoyed it. The characters are realistic and relatable. It has it's suspense, action, humor, drama and you are hooked throughout. Definitely worth reading and am positively looking forward to it's sequel.
*I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review
*To see more of my reviews be sure to check out my blog
July 11, 2013
I will admit, I wasn't really sure what to expect with this one. Now that I've finished the book, I'm still not 100% sure what it is I read.
You get to meet Arista the 15 year old girl who is mentioned in the blurb of the book. This part of the story is about self-discovery, dealing with emotional and physical attack, bullying and abuse. It does, despite this rather dark shadow, end up portraying a very positive story of overcoming fears, being more aware of your surroundings and seeing the positive in people.
You also get to meet Cayo the Seer's Ayudante or student who is training with the Seer. He is also on a journey of self-discovery, but rather than dealing with physical and mental abuse, he has to deal with otherworldly aspects like 'not mistaking reality for truth' and being able to 'see without his vision'. I liked his story probably more than Arista's, but only because I felt it was incomplete (which happily Dianne tells us at the end of the book there will be a continuance of this side of the story in a new book). Arista's story was more detailed.
Ultimately, it was thought-provoking, entertaining, interesting and surprisingly complex. There were, however, times when I felt I was reading two completely seperate stories, not two stories tied together. This is the primary reason the book didn't get 5 stars.
This was another great book from Dianne. Pick it up today!
A couple of things:
4% - last paragraph if chapter 1 is smaller font than the rest.
35% - '...looking down on the back (black) dog...'
You get to meet Arista the 15 year old girl who is mentioned in the blurb of the book. This part of the story is about self-discovery, dealing with emotional and physical attack, bullying and abuse. It does, despite this rather dark shadow, end up portraying a very positive story of overcoming fears, being more aware of your surroundings and seeing the positive in people.
You also get to meet Cayo the Seer's Ayudante or student who is training with the Seer. He is also on a journey of self-discovery, but rather than dealing with physical and mental abuse, he has to deal with otherworldly aspects like 'not mistaking reality for truth' and being able to 'see without his vision'. I liked his story probably more than Arista's, but only because I felt it was incomplete (which happily Dianne tells us at the end of the book there will be a continuance of this side of the story in a new book). Arista's story was more detailed.
Ultimately, it was thought-provoking, entertaining, interesting and surprisingly complex. There were, however, times when I felt I was reading two completely seperate stories, not two stories tied together. This is the primary reason the book didn't get 5 stars.
This was another great book from Dianne. Pick it up today!
A couple of things:
4% - last paragraph if chapter 1 is smaller font than the rest.
35% - '...looking down on the back (black) dog...'
September 12, 2014
As part of my resolution to read more indie novels this year, I picked up The Eleventh Question by fellow blogged, Dianne Grey, and did not regret it once. A short and easy read, this novel tells the story of Arista, a teenager with a less-than-idea living situation, who goes through the eleven stages of enlightenment through a series of events that test her and make her ponder the true meaning of life, while in the background a Seer and her apprentice observe her and go through a journey of their own.
I really enjoyed this book. The writing style was great, and the story kept me hooked throughout. I was curious to see what the eleventh question was, and I thought Dianne did a good job choosing which events led to which question, and the end of the book was quite satisfying.
I found myself caring about all the characters enough to want to see what was going to happen to them. They were well-rounded and one could easily relate to them. I was relieved that they didn't have any stereotypical characteristics that could be found often in novels these days!
Overall, The Eleventh Question was a great read and I do recommend it for anyone with an interest in philosophy and self-enlightenment!
I really enjoyed this book. The writing style was great, and the story kept me hooked throughout. I was curious to see what the eleventh question was, and I thought Dianne did a good job choosing which events led to which question, and the end of the book was quite satisfying.
I found myself caring about all the characters enough to want to see what was going to happen to them. They were well-rounded and one could easily relate to them. I was relieved that they didn't have any stereotypical characteristics that could be found often in novels these days!
Overall, The Eleventh Question was a great read and I do recommend it for anyone with an interest in philosophy and self-enlightenment!
November 16, 2012
Loved it, loved it, loved it. I admit, I tried this book because it was a freebie written by another WordPress blogger whose posts I enjoyed... Within the first chapter of The Eleventh Question, I was hooked. I tried so hard to eke out the chapters and my enjoyment so it lasted but I have to admit I caved, and spent a dreary Saturday morning in bed consuming the rest of the book in one go, like a packet of Tim Tams... Oh no... and then like a packet of magic Tim Tams, the good news right at the end, Dianne is currently working on "In the Company of Beasts" which follows Cayo's journey into the future, so there's hope for me to spend more time with Cayo and the other wonderful beings of his journey. Dianne, if you're reading this, don't dilly dally... you've got writing to do.
November 17, 2012
I started reading this and could not put it down; Arista struggles with bullies and an alcoholic mother, while a young man realizes, but is helpless to ease her pain. Gray’s mix of fantasy and present-day actions heighten the tension, leaving this reader dying to know the eleventh question. I was quite pleased with the results. Highly recommended.
December 4, 2012
awesome! can't stop reading this book till the end
January 26, 2013
I have now read two of Gray's novels and I love her style. She writes stories that are impossible to put down, but also make you think about the world we live in and the possibilities that abound. Lovely. The Eleventh Question is about a girl, Arista, who is being bullied in school and, in a way, at home as well. Her mother drinks to excess and likes to gamble, but is also grasping at things to believe in, things to make herself feel complete and a part of something. Either through religion or the men she dates. Sort of like many people you meet. Her daughter is trying to understand herself and the world around her and she has begun asking questions. To date, there have been 10 important questions asked by mankind, and she is poised to be the one to ask the 11th, which will bring about a paradigm shift or sea change in the world. There is a Seer and her Ayudante (assistant), Cayo who are watching and helping the people who could possibly ask the 11th. The chapters alternate between Cayo and Arista.
It really makes you think, Gray sneaks philosophy into a compulsively readable story - Who am I? What am I? Why am I so concerned about what others think - what do I think and care most about!?
The characters struggled, I struggled with them. I really felt an affinity for the narrators Arista and I loved reading about Cayo. His struggle was so interesting...pride gets in the way, but he makes good. He follows through when he makes declarations, even if he really didn't want to in the first place. His story reminded me slightly of The Alchemist which I haven't read in forever, so it could just be the feel or what I have turned the story to in my head. But it was lyrical and metaphorical and made me think of it.
Arista is a really good kid, even though her home life is so messed up. Which I find amazing, but she is likeable, and going through struggles many of us have faced. She just ends up digging a bit deeper than many of us get. She has to face her fears in order to grow, and she has strength, wonderful people helping and the drive to do what needs to be done.
I loved Cayo and his journey. It was awesome. I really recommend this read. It was lovely, makes you question your world, has tons of sucky reality and has enough whimsy and magic to make it that much more fascinating. 5 stars.
It really makes you think, Gray sneaks philosophy into a compulsively readable story - Who am I? What am I? Why am I so concerned about what others think - what do I think and care most about!?
The characters struggled, I struggled with them. I really felt an affinity for the narrators Arista and I loved reading about Cayo. His struggle was so interesting...pride gets in the way, but he makes good. He follows through when he makes declarations, even if he really didn't want to in the first place. His story reminded me slightly of The Alchemist which I haven't read in forever, so it could just be the feel or what I have turned the story to in my head. But it was lyrical and metaphorical and made me think of it.
Arista is a really good kid, even though her home life is so messed up. Which I find amazing, but she is likeable, and going through struggles many of us have faced. She just ends up digging a bit deeper than many of us get. She has to face her fears in order to grow, and she has strength, wonderful people helping and the drive to do what needs to be done.
I loved Cayo and his journey. It was awesome. I really recommend this read. It was lovely, makes you question your world, has tons of sucky reality and has enough whimsy and magic to make it that much more fascinating. 5 stars.
May 24, 2015
I am a huge fan of Dianne Gray - I couldn't wait to start this book. I am not disappointed.
The Eleventh Question is a fantasy book of sorts, I guess, but more of a YA that questions spirituality and the relationship with our own humanity. Dianne Gray is a magnificent storyteller - she thinks of the most deepest questions within our soul. She writes books like no other.
I really liked Arista's character - bullied at school, a loner, who is too scared to go to the police about her Mum's abusive boyfriend. She is obsessed with checking Facebook - a great modern hook that will ring true with any teen today. Her maturity really shines through as the book progresses, and her brave transformation is apparent throughout.
Mixed in with this is Cayo - an apprentice Seer who is looking out for Arista. This part is more fantasy than the dramatic main section, but it interweaves beautifully.
This is a book that omits the current trend of vampires and werewolves and dystopian lands. This a book that asks the questions we as humans ask ourselves when no-one else is around. It reminded me of Sharon Sant's Sky Song. A great read.
The Eleventh Question is a fantasy book of sorts, I guess, but more of a YA that questions spirituality and the relationship with our own humanity. Dianne Gray is a magnificent storyteller - she thinks of the most deepest questions within our soul. She writes books like no other.
I really liked Arista's character - bullied at school, a loner, who is too scared to go to the police about her Mum's abusive boyfriend. She is obsessed with checking Facebook - a great modern hook that will ring true with any teen today. Her maturity really shines through as the book progresses, and her brave transformation is apparent throughout.
Mixed in with this is Cayo - an apprentice Seer who is looking out for Arista. This part is more fantasy than the dramatic main section, but it interweaves beautifully.
This is a book that omits the current trend of vampires and werewolves and dystopian lands. This a book that asks the questions we as humans ask ourselves when no-one else is around. It reminded me of Sharon Sant's Sky Song. A great read.
August 26, 2013
"The Eleventh Question" by Dianne Gray pulled me in from the beginning. It's that kind of story.
In Australia, fifteen-year-old Arista is being bullied at school and on Facebook. She was bitten by a dog and is terrified of them. Her mother is an alcoholic in an abusive relationship.
In another world, a "Seer" and her apprentice watch Arista try to cope with these problems. At critical junctures, Arista asks the questions. "Who am I?" "Why am I here?" "What happens after death?"
The story line switches back and forth between the two worlds, with the author drawing clear boundaries, but still letting the two worlds affect each other. It is extremely effective.
The book is very well written, with straightforward, yet flowing prose that allows complete immersion in the story. I highly recommend it.
Nice job, Dianne.
In Australia, fifteen-year-old Arista is being bullied at school and on Facebook. She was bitten by a dog and is terrified of them. Her mother is an alcoholic in an abusive relationship.
In another world, a "Seer" and her apprentice watch Arista try to cope with these problems. At critical junctures, Arista asks the questions. "Who am I?" "Why am I here?" "What happens after death?"
The story line switches back and forth between the two worlds, with the author drawing clear boundaries, but still letting the two worlds affect each other. It is extremely effective.
The book is very well written, with straightforward, yet flowing prose that allows complete immersion in the story. I highly recommend it.
Nice job, Dianne.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews