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Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow
Fourteen-year-old Stevie lives in Lewes with her beloved vinyl collection, her mum ... and her mum's depression. When Stevie's mum's disability benefits are cut, Stevie and her mother are plunged into a life of poverty. But irrepressible Stevie is determined not to be beaten and she takes inspiration from the lyrics of her father's 1980s record collection and dreams of a life as a musician. Then she meets Hafiz, a talented footballer and a Syrian refugee. Hafiz's parents gave their life savings to buy Hafiz a safe passage to Europe; his journey has been anything but easy. Then he meets Stevie... As Stevie and Hafiz's friendship grows, they encourage each other to believe in themselves and follow their dreams.
341 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2018
17 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Siobhan Curham
39 books462 followersHi, I’m Siobhan - which for those of you not familiar with the wonder of Irish names, is actually pronounced, Shiv-on!
I’m an award-winning author of over 50 books, fiction and non-fiction, for adults, young adults and children, and my first book was published back in 2000, so I’ve been at this writing game for almost a quarter of a century now.
I’m also a former council estate kid and a university drop-out - I dropped out because I didn’t think I had what it took to make it in the middle class world of publishing. Thankfully I managed to overcome my self doubt and fear and achieve my writing dreams, and now I love helping others do the same through my mentoring, courses and talks.
I don’t know about you, but during the pandemic I felt as if my life had collapsed in on itself and I’d had to shrink myself to fit this strange new world of lockdowns and zoom calls (oh, so many Zoom calls!) and working from home and working alone. Even when things returned to some semblance of normal back in 2022, I felt that I’d lost sight of who I was and I’d definitely lost my joy for living.
Then, an unexpected trip to Jamaica changed everything, jolting me back to life and reminding me of who I truly am. In a bid to never lose sight of myself and my sense of wonder and purpose again, I started travelling more and writing a weekly Substack letter called Wonderstruck. And in September 2023 I gave up my home in the UK and pretty much all of my worldly goods to solo travel the world while I write my books and mentor other writers.
I send Wonderstruck out to my subscribers every Sunday morning, writing about the places I visit and the lessons I learn there. My sole aim for writing this letter is to inspire others to rediscover their own sense of purpose, wonder and adventure.
If you've enjoyed reading any of my books I'd love it if you joined the Wonderstruck community over on Substack.
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing my books, I really appreciate it!
Siobhan
Substack: siobhancurham.substack.com
Facebook: Siobhan Curham Author
Instagram: @SiobhanCurhamAuthor
Twitter: @SiobhanCurham
For more information about my books, mentoring and courses, please visit: http://www.siobhancurham.com
I’m an award-winning author of over 50 books, fiction and non-fiction, for adults, young adults and children, and my first book was published back in 2000, so I’ve been at this writing game for almost a quarter of a century now.
I’m also a former council estate kid and a university drop-out - I dropped out because I didn’t think I had what it took to make it in the middle class world of publishing. Thankfully I managed to overcome my self doubt and fear and achieve my writing dreams, and now I love helping others do the same through my mentoring, courses and talks.
I don’t know about you, but during the pandemic I felt as if my life had collapsed in on itself and I’d had to shrink myself to fit this strange new world of lockdowns and zoom calls (oh, so many Zoom calls!) and working from home and working alone. Even when things returned to some semblance of normal back in 2022, I felt that I’d lost sight of who I was and I’d definitely lost my joy for living.
Then, an unexpected trip to Jamaica changed everything, jolting me back to life and reminding me of who I truly am. In a bid to never lose sight of myself and my sense of wonder and purpose again, I started travelling more and writing a weekly Substack letter called Wonderstruck. And in September 2023 I gave up my home in the UK and pretty much all of my worldly goods to solo travel the world while I write my books and mentor other writers.
I send Wonderstruck out to my subscribers every Sunday morning, writing about the places I visit and the lessons I learn there. My sole aim for writing this letter is to inspire others to rediscover their own sense of purpose, wonder and adventure.
If you've enjoyed reading any of my books I'd love it if you joined the Wonderstruck community over on Substack.
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing my books, I really appreciate it!
Siobhan
Substack: siobhancurham.substack.com
Facebook: Siobhan Curham Author
Instagram: @SiobhanCurhamAuthor
Twitter: @SiobhanCurham
For more information about my books, mentoring and courses, please visit: http://www.siobhancurham.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
August 17, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
Stevie is the quiet girl at school, the one no-one wants to be friends with or sit next to. She tells herself that she isn’t bothered and that she doesn’t want nor need a friend as she doesn’t want to let anyone into her life.
Her dad died a couple of years ago and her mum fell into a deep depression unable to look after herself, never mind her daughter. She can’t go out to work and so money is tight. The pair struggle to have enough food to eat and Stevie is wearing last years, too small uniform to school.
Her only escape from her real life is through music, whether that be listening to one of the songs her father left her or playing her guitar. Music is her passion.
Hafiz has had to flee his home in war-torn Syria and travel to the UK to live with his Aunt and Uncle, leaving his parents behind. He hasn’t heard from his parents in a long time and is worried about them. He joins the local school and just wants to fit in and be accepted, but some of the children can only see him as a refugee, not a person.
He loves to play football, this is his passion, his escape from real life. He is selected for the school team. Even that has it’s own problems with some team players not liking the idea of a refugee playing for their team, even more so when it turns out that he is actually really good.
Stevie is given the task of helping Hafiz out on his first day. Together the two become inseparable, each drawn to the other via the reality of the harsh world we live in. Through their friendship, they learn to laugh, smile and find themselves again and create their own story.
Don’t Stop Thinking About Tomorrow is one of those books that when you get to the final word you sit there going over what you have just read. You need to let it all sink in and for your brain to process just how wonderful the book really was.
The storyline is completely relevant to the world we live in today and exceptionally realistic too. It is one of those books that you can perfectly visualise all the characters and the scenes, just like watching a movie.
Both Stevie and Hafiz had their own story to share and this was done via alternative POV chapters. These chapters were short and helped to keep the flow of the story moving nicely. The secondary characters each played their own role perfectly too. Some you will laugh along with, others you will want to reach into the book and make them see the errors of their ways.
The book is so poignant and I didn’t want to put it down once I had started reading. Ms. Curham has written with so much passion and knowledge that it comes across in the reading equivalent to Ultra HD.
This is a story that will pull at your heart-string and give you empathy and compassion for others. It will make you see the world differently and gives you the mindset to be a better human being. Don’t pass this book by, give it a read. It is a book not to be missed.
Stevie is the quiet girl at school, the one no-one wants to be friends with or sit next to. She tells herself that she isn’t bothered and that she doesn’t want nor need a friend as she doesn’t want to let anyone into her life.
Her dad died a couple of years ago and her mum fell into a deep depression unable to look after herself, never mind her daughter. She can’t go out to work and so money is tight. The pair struggle to have enough food to eat and Stevie is wearing last years, too small uniform to school.
Her only escape from her real life is through music, whether that be listening to one of the songs her father left her or playing her guitar. Music is her passion.
Hafiz has had to flee his home in war-torn Syria and travel to the UK to live with his Aunt and Uncle, leaving his parents behind. He hasn’t heard from his parents in a long time and is worried about them. He joins the local school and just wants to fit in and be accepted, but some of the children can only see him as a refugee, not a person.
He loves to play football, this is his passion, his escape from real life. He is selected for the school team. Even that has it’s own problems with some team players not liking the idea of a refugee playing for their team, even more so when it turns out that he is actually really good.
Stevie is given the task of helping Hafiz out on his first day. Together the two become inseparable, each drawn to the other via the reality of the harsh world we live in. Through their friendship, they learn to laugh, smile and find themselves again and create their own story.
Don’t Stop Thinking About Tomorrow is one of those books that when you get to the final word you sit there going over what you have just read. You need to let it all sink in and for your brain to process just how wonderful the book really was.
The storyline is completely relevant to the world we live in today and exceptionally realistic too. It is one of those books that you can perfectly visualise all the characters and the scenes, just like watching a movie.
Both Stevie and Hafiz had their own story to share and this was done via alternative POV chapters. These chapters were short and helped to keep the flow of the story moving nicely. The secondary characters each played their own role perfectly too. Some you will laugh along with, others you will want to reach into the book and make them see the errors of their ways.
The book is so poignant and I didn’t want to put it down once I had started reading. Ms. Curham has written with so much passion and knowledge that it comes across in the reading equivalent to Ultra HD.
This is a story that will pull at your heart-string and give you empathy and compassion for others. It will make you see the world differently and gives you the mindset to be a better human being. Don’t pass this book by, give it a read. It is a book not to be missed.
July 27, 2018
I'm honestly still trying to decide between whether to give this a 3-star or a 4-star rating. Review to come soon.
September 10, 2018
This was such a sweet story. Devoured it!
March 22, 2019
I came across Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow whilst browsing the library website. YA contemporary is one of my favourite and most read genres so I'm always looking to discover more books in this genre. I was also intrigued by the synopsis as the topics this book looks at are so relevant in society these days.
Plot
Stevie lives in England with her Mum who has depression and anxiety. On the first day back at school after the summer holidays Stevie is asked to look after the new boy Hafiz, a Syrian refugee. As their friendship grows they begin to encourage each other to believe in themselves and follow their dreams. But when Stevie's Mum has her disability benefits cut they are both thrown into a life of poverty that could jeopardise her new found friendship.
Positives:
- Stevie is so proactive and constantly using her initiative. No matter what difficult situation she is in she never gives up and continues to look for a solution.
- I really enjoyed reading the scenes set in Brighton as I've been there in the past so I found it so easy to imagine that I was actually walking along the pier with Stevie and Hafiz.
- At one point Stevie desperately needs a new school shirt but instead she spends her money on a train ticket and coffee. As an adult this did make me rolls my eyes, but I guess the author actually got Stevie's priorities just right in this situation - because teens are likely to spend their money on something that provides them with a short term gain rather than long term happiness.
- The author has really done her research into the welfare system in the UK and it shows. From explaining the changes to benefits able to be claimed to how claimants now have to attend a reassessment meeting in person. The story makes it clear how financially vulnerable people are being made by the changes.
Negatives:
- I went to secondary school in the UK and know full well how strict the rules are regarding makeup so it doesn't make sense how Stevie is able to wear it. This just doesn't seem believable at all.
- There's a scene in the book where an Indian kid calls Hafiz an asylum seeker. Umm, am I really supposed to believe that a kid whose parents or ancestors probably travelled to the UK to start a new life would turn around and call another kid an asylum seeker?! No, I didn't think so. Later Stevie even questions why this character doesn't show more compassion.
- Some of the words that Hafiz uses didn't really seem that believable to me. For example, he would say "banter" and "me and my friends dissed each other". Although, he says he learnt English in Syria, it feels as though the slang is picked up too quickly for someone who has just arrived in England and may not have met other British teens before he joined the school.
- Both main characters walk out of school in their uniforms before school has even started and I find it hard to believe that no-one spotted them. I remember during my time at secondary school there was always teachers at the gates to make sure that no one tried to leave the premises again. The fact that they were also able to get on a train and walk around in public places without anyone questioning them doesn't seem right either.
Final thoughts
Despite a few minor problems, I really enjoyed reading Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow! I feel like I've been able to learn and understand more about the journey and situation of refugees.
I loved the fact that this is set in my home country and how it covers our welfare/benefits system and child poverty amongst other things because I have never seen that anywhere else and it's so important! I also love that this book is about nothing more than friendship because how often do we see that these days?!
If you're looking for a great friendship book or enjoy reading YA contemporary then I'd definitely recommend this book.
Plot
Stevie lives in England with her Mum who has depression and anxiety. On the first day back at school after the summer holidays Stevie is asked to look after the new boy Hafiz, a Syrian refugee. As their friendship grows they begin to encourage each other to believe in themselves and follow their dreams. But when Stevie's Mum has her disability benefits cut they are both thrown into a life of poverty that could jeopardise her new found friendship.
Positives:
- Stevie is so proactive and constantly using her initiative. No matter what difficult situation she is in she never gives up and continues to look for a solution.
- I really enjoyed reading the scenes set in Brighton as I've been there in the past so I found it so easy to imagine that I was actually walking along the pier with Stevie and Hafiz.
- At one point Stevie desperately needs a new school shirt but instead she spends her money on a train ticket and coffee. As an adult this did make me rolls my eyes, but I guess the author actually got Stevie's priorities just right in this situation - because teens are likely to spend their money on something that provides them with a short term gain rather than long term happiness.
- The author has really done her research into the welfare system in the UK and it shows. From explaining the changes to benefits able to be claimed to how claimants now have to attend a reassessment meeting in person. The story makes it clear how financially vulnerable people are being made by the changes.
Negatives:
- I went to secondary school in the UK and know full well how strict the rules are regarding makeup so it doesn't make sense how Stevie is able to wear it. This just doesn't seem believable at all.
- There's a scene in the book where an Indian kid calls Hafiz an asylum seeker. Umm, am I really supposed to believe that a kid whose parents or ancestors probably travelled to the UK to start a new life would turn around and call another kid an asylum seeker?! No, I didn't think so. Later Stevie even questions why this character doesn't show more compassion.
- Some of the words that Hafiz uses didn't really seem that believable to me. For example, he would say "banter" and "me and my friends dissed each other". Although, he says he learnt English in Syria, it feels as though the slang is picked up too quickly for someone who has just arrived in England and may not have met other British teens before he joined the school.
- Both main characters walk out of school in their uniforms before school has even started and I find it hard to believe that no-one spotted them. I remember during my time at secondary school there was always teachers at the gates to make sure that no one tried to leave the premises again. The fact that they were also able to get on a train and walk around in public places without anyone questioning them doesn't seem right either.
Final thoughts
Despite a few minor problems, I really enjoyed reading Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow! I feel like I've been able to learn and understand more about the journey and situation of refugees.
I loved the fact that this is set in my home country and how it covers our welfare/benefits system and child poverty amongst other things because I have never seen that anywhere else and it's so important! I also love that this book is about nothing more than friendship because how often do we see that these days?!
If you're looking for a great friendship book or enjoy reading YA contemporary then I'd definitely recommend this book.
August 1, 2018
I loved this book so much! I wanted to keep reading and never stop, that's how striking this book was. This is not your usual YA contemporary. It deals with realistic issues which is not very common in YA literature.
It's a story of Stevie and Hafiz. Stevie lost her dad recently and because of that her Mom, Sadie, is in depression. Sadie is not working anymore and things get pretty serious because of that. Instead of Sadie taking care of Stevie, it's Stevie who's taking care of her Mom and herself.
Hafiz, on the other, is a Syrian refugee who left all his family and friends behind in Syria. His parents paid human smugglers to send him to the UK so he could escape the terrible war in Syria. Life is very hard for Hafiz already because his family is not reachable anymore but some of the students in his school think that he is a terrorist and wants to take their country from them, which makes life even harder for Hafiz.
Stevie and Hafiz meet and the story starts to unfold from there.
Even though I am not a refugee, I am an immigrant and Muslim too. I could relate to Hafiz on so many levels.
I loved the characterisation and the fact that the author portrayed Hafiz accurately, taking in even the minute details of his background into account. I didn't even realise I was on the last page until I flicked over to see the acknowledgments. I wanted this book to be at least 100 pages longer. This is how fast paced and captivating this book was. It had me teared up on so many occasions and that's saying something because books rarely make me emotional. I would highly recommend reading this book.
It's a story of Stevie and Hafiz. Stevie lost her dad recently and because of that her Mom, Sadie, is in depression. Sadie is not working anymore and things get pretty serious because of that. Instead of Sadie taking care of Stevie, it's Stevie who's taking care of her Mom and herself.
Hafiz, on the other, is a Syrian refugee who left all his family and friends behind in Syria. His parents paid human smugglers to send him to the UK so he could escape the terrible war in Syria. Life is very hard for Hafiz already because his family is not reachable anymore but some of the students in his school think that he is a terrorist and wants to take their country from them, which makes life even harder for Hafiz.
Stevie and Hafiz meet and the story starts to unfold from there.
Even though I am not a refugee, I am an immigrant and Muslim too. I could relate to Hafiz on so many levels.
I loved the characterisation and the fact that the author portrayed Hafiz accurately, taking in even the minute details of his background into account. I didn't even realise I was on the last page until I flicked over to see the acknowledgments. I wanted this book to be at least 100 pages longer. This is how fast paced and captivating this book was. It had me teared up on so many occasions and that's saying something because books rarely make me emotional. I would highly recommend reading this book.
December 30, 2021
4/5
A really sweet book, which is also really informative. Really enjoyed this, in one sitting, and is easy to get in to.
Recommended!! A sweet story, that shows you don’t need romance for a powerful story about a growing relationship :)
A really sweet book, which is also really informative. Really enjoyed this, in one sitting, and is easy to get in to.
Recommended!! A sweet story, that shows you don’t need romance for a powerful story about a growing relationship :)
June 3, 2018
Enjoyable, and illuminating. Also, hopeful.
June 30, 2020
sooooo good, Im a little disappointed by the end though.
April 28, 2020
A beautiful, heartfelt YA novel told from the perspectives of Stevie and Hafiz, two teens who find out that their lives are a story waiting to happen. The town of Lewes (near Brighton in the UK) is the setting and provides a gentle backdrop for each of the characters to realise their own strengths, to grow and to follow their dreams. Points to the author for the song references throughout, and Stevie's Little Book of Big Song Wisdom that contains so many classics to get you through life. Recommended.
June 16, 2020
4.5 stars 🌟
January 6, 2021
Deux destins tragiques croisés qui amènent à réfléchir sur le monde qui nous entoure et à relativiser sur ses propres malheurs. Lu dans le cadre du concours des incorruptibles niveau 3e-lycee
August 8, 2018
I wanted to love this book. I really did. However there were a few elements about this book that kept hassling my brain and that did bring the rating down for me.
This book is based around Stevie and Hafiz, both with different pasts, a different way of life who take comfort in one another and help each other through the dark times in their life.
Stevie was a delightful character, with amazing taste in music! Stevie is mature for her age, which is no wonder since she not only looks after herself but also after her mother, who is bed ridden with depression and unable to provide for her daughter. While being a teenager, Stevie fends for herself, ensuring the minimal money coming into the household is spent wisely and would even use her own money to feed herself at school. I found that her fear was relatable as well, with the fear of her mother’s depression and their income from the government getting cut off. I think we forget that a lot of families out there are in this situation.
I also loved her love and faith in music to bring her positivity in her life. Even though Stevie comes from a tough home life, she is still filled with kindness and cares for those around her that deserve it. If you can find faith in music you can find faith in anything.
I took soo much from Stevie that I found Hafiz rather dull in comparison. Hafiz comes from a war-torn country and is living with his over protective Uncle and Aunty, full of fear of his family back home while they try to escape. Though Haifz has a big heart and doesn’t play the victim, I just failed to find him as intriguing as Stevie. I would have liked more energy from Hafiz, it seemed too much of a side character rather than sharing the spotlight with Stevie.
Though this book is about a beautiful friendship, I personally found the book dragged on. The start and end of the book were perfect, I loved the introduction of the characters and how they bonded at the end of the book while cleaning up the hate crime at the Asylum centre. The middle of the book I just kept questioning, is anything going to happen? Are they still talking? Where is this going? Is anything going to happen? I know that the story was getting built for the conclusion but I felt as though it lost consistently in the middle and unfortunately it lost my attention.
Overall it was such a beautiful idea and the story was quiet good but I needed more from this book. It could be that I have high expectations for contemporise? Though if friendship contemporaries are your thing I would recommend giving this a read, the writing was beautiful after all.
Rating 3.5 /5
This book is based around Stevie and Hafiz, both with different pasts, a different way of life who take comfort in one another and help each other through the dark times in their life.
Stevie was a delightful character, with amazing taste in music! Stevie is mature for her age, which is no wonder since she not only looks after herself but also after her mother, who is bed ridden with depression and unable to provide for her daughter. While being a teenager, Stevie fends for herself, ensuring the minimal money coming into the household is spent wisely and would even use her own money to feed herself at school. I found that her fear was relatable as well, with the fear of her mother’s depression and their income from the government getting cut off. I think we forget that a lot of families out there are in this situation.
I also loved her love and faith in music to bring her positivity in her life. Even though Stevie comes from a tough home life, she is still filled with kindness and cares for those around her that deserve it. If you can find faith in music you can find faith in anything.
I took soo much from Stevie that I found Hafiz rather dull in comparison. Hafiz comes from a war-torn country and is living with his over protective Uncle and Aunty, full of fear of his family back home while they try to escape. Though Haifz has a big heart and doesn’t play the victim, I just failed to find him as intriguing as Stevie. I would have liked more energy from Hafiz, it seemed too much of a side character rather than sharing the spotlight with Stevie.
Though this book is about a beautiful friendship, I personally found the book dragged on. The start and end of the book were perfect, I loved the introduction of the characters and how they bonded at the end of the book while cleaning up the hate crime at the Asylum centre. The middle of the book I just kept questioning, is anything going to happen? Are they still talking? Where is this going? Is anything going to happen? I know that the story was getting built for the conclusion but I felt as though it lost consistently in the middle and unfortunately it lost my attention.
Overall it was such a beautiful idea and the story was quiet good but I needed more from this book. It could be that I have high expectations for contemporise? Though if friendship contemporaries are your thing I would recommend giving this a read, the writing was beautiful after all.
Rating 3.5 /5
May 19, 2019
Un énorme coup de cœur.
Ce fut une lecture coup de poing, comme j’aime bien le dire. Commencé hier soir, terminé ce matin : j’ai été transportée à Lewes, Brighton, en Angleterre aux côtés de Stevie, jeune adolescente essayant de survivre à son année de seconde, aux côtés d’une mère dépressive suite à la mort de son époux, et Hafiz, réfugié Syrien qui est enfin en sécurité, chez son oncle, mais sans nouvelles de sa famille et de ses amis.
L’auteure nous emmène donc dans ces deux chemins de vie qui, a priori, tout oppose. Cependant Stevie et Hafiz vont devenir amis et tisser un lien unique... Ensemble, ils combattront leur peur, et la peur des autres. Ils feront face au harcèlement et à l’ignorance. Ce récit est un récit prônant de belles valeurs : humanité, amitié, tolérance, entraide.
Aux côtés de son oncle, Hafiz va aider à entretenir le refuge du bord de mer, aux côtés de Stevie. La jeune fille va également tenter d’aider sa mère, du mieux qu’elle le peut du haut de ses 14 ans. En suivant leurs rêves, Hafiz parviendra à faire entendre son histoire et à éveiller les consciences : oui c’est un réfugié mais il a tout perdu, alors pourquoi autant de haine envers lui ? Peu à peu, le jeune homme parviendra à se faire accepter, notamment en jouant dans l’équipe de foot du lycée.
Stevie, quant à elle, a toujours été mise à l’écart en classe, victime des moqueries des uns et des autres. Musicienne hors pair, elle suit les traces de son père, en espérant le rendre fier.
La vie n’est pas simple, pour aucun des deux. Stevie doit travailler toujours plus pour gagner de l’argent, sa mère étant trop anxieuse par sa dépression, ne pouvant passer un seul coup de fil même... Stevie incarne une jeune femme tellement forte et courageuse, essayant de lutter contre cette rupture, cette maladie invisible.
Ce roman dénonce le harcèlement, l’intolérance et la bêtise humaine. Ce fut un énorme coup de cœur et quelle plaisir de découvrir la plume de Siobhan Curham ! Je ne voyais pas les chapitres défiler, c’est fluide, léger... J’ai passé un excellent moment.
Mon avis est un peu dans le désordre, j’écris un peu à « chaud », mais le message délivré par nos deux protagonistes est un message de paix et d’amour.
Merci Flammarion Jeunesse pour cette merveilleuse découverte ! Je suis profondément touchée par ma lecture.♥️
Ce fut une lecture coup de poing, comme j’aime bien le dire. Commencé hier soir, terminé ce matin : j’ai été transportée à Lewes, Brighton, en Angleterre aux côtés de Stevie, jeune adolescente essayant de survivre à son année de seconde, aux côtés d’une mère dépressive suite à la mort de son époux, et Hafiz, réfugié Syrien qui est enfin en sécurité, chez son oncle, mais sans nouvelles de sa famille et de ses amis.
L’auteure nous emmène donc dans ces deux chemins de vie qui, a priori, tout oppose. Cependant Stevie et Hafiz vont devenir amis et tisser un lien unique... Ensemble, ils combattront leur peur, et la peur des autres. Ils feront face au harcèlement et à l’ignorance. Ce récit est un récit prônant de belles valeurs : humanité, amitié, tolérance, entraide.
Aux côtés de son oncle, Hafiz va aider à entretenir le refuge du bord de mer, aux côtés de Stevie. La jeune fille va également tenter d’aider sa mère, du mieux qu’elle le peut du haut de ses 14 ans. En suivant leurs rêves, Hafiz parviendra à faire entendre son histoire et à éveiller les consciences : oui c’est un réfugié mais il a tout perdu, alors pourquoi autant de haine envers lui ? Peu à peu, le jeune homme parviendra à se faire accepter, notamment en jouant dans l’équipe de foot du lycée.
Stevie, quant à elle, a toujours été mise à l’écart en classe, victime des moqueries des uns et des autres. Musicienne hors pair, elle suit les traces de son père, en espérant le rendre fier.
La vie n’est pas simple, pour aucun des deux. Stevie doit travailler toujours plus pour gagner de l’argent, sa mère étant trop anxieuse par sa dépression, ne pouvant passer un seul coup de fil même... Stevie incarne une jeune femme tellement forte et courageuse, essayant de lutter contre cette rupture, cette maladie invisible.
Ce roman dénonce le harcèlement, l’intolérance et la bêtise humaine. Ce fut un énorme coup de cœur et quelle plaisir de découvrir la plume de Siobhan Curham ! Je ne voyais pas les chapitres défiler, c’est fluide, léger... J’ai passé un excellent moment.
Mon avis est un peu dans le désordre, j’écris un peu à « chaud », mais le message délivré par nos deux protagonistes est un message de paix et d’amour.
Merci Flammarion Jeunesse pour cette merveilleuse découverte ! Je suis profondément touchée par ma lecture.♥️
August 3, 2018
Told in a dual narrative we meet Stevie and Hafiz. Stevie is living with her mum who is struggling with depression after the death of Stevie’s father. Her mother is barely able to get out of bed, she can’t work and they rely on welfare to survive. Stevie has had to look after herself and the only thing that keeps her spirits uplifted is the songbook that her father has left for her and the music she plays on her guitar. When she listens to the music that they shared she feels she still has her father with her. Stevie meets Hafiz, a new boy at the school. Hafiz is a refugee who has made the perilous journey from Syria to live with his uncle and aunt. He is lonely and lost, desperately homesick for his parents, country and home. He soon discovers too that fear of terrorism and refugees makes him a target for racism and bullying. Together Stevie and Hafiz help each other through their firm friendship. This is a fabulous story that deals with the topics of inclusion, refugees, racism, the Syrian crisis and mental health. The friendship that develops between these two teens is wonderfully written and although there are plenty of tears there are also plenty of laughs in this book.
Suitable for 11+ bullying, racism, poverty, mental health, music, soccer, hope
Suitable for 11+ bullying, racism, poverty, mental health, music, soccer, hope
January 12, 2019
went in with zero expectations and wasn't super hooked at the start but the story eventually drew me in and i found myself tearing up at certain parts (i seriously felt like crying but i was in the public library so that's probably not a good idea). the sensitive issues covered, like depression and racism, did seem quite detailed too and it made me feel something in the very least so i guess that's a sort of sign that i was moved. almost gave it a 5/5 but i dropped one star because i feel like it won't be the most memorable/unique of books but i'd still recommend this to anyone looking for a engaging read.
/spoilers ahead/
i really liked how the main duo's relationship feels more on the platonic side, maybe borderline romantic at best (the author tries to hint at jealousy by bringing in lucy but it didn't really serve as a catalyst to clearly establish that hafiz and stevie have feelings for each other imo), but anyway the two had a nice dynamic going on in the book and it was enjoyable to watch.
also admire that stevie is so fucking positive despite her situation, i can never have that kind of optimism but perhaps i am inspired now.
/spoilers ahead/
i really liked how the main duo's relationship feels more on the platonic side, maybe borderline romantic at best (the author tries to hint at jealousy by bringing in lucy but it didn't really serve as a catalyst to clearly establish that hafiz and stevie have feelings for each other imo), but anyway the two had a nice dynamic going on in the book and it was enjoyable to watch.
also admire that stevie is so fucking positive despite her situation, i can never have that kind of optimism but perhaps i am inspired now.
June 26, 2022
This book is really cute and I enjoyed reading it. It was super engaging and I loved how Hafiz and Stevie's friendship developed realistically. However, there were quite a few cliches and stereotypes which made me annoyed and lose interest in the book. First of all, the inclusion of Priya the mean girl who is just insecure about herself, Hafiz with the thick hair and turquoise eyes (making him the exotic, conventionally attractive character) and Stevie the broken girl just trying to life life despite all her hardships. It was also kind of a hassle to get through each chapter and having to switch perspectives but that is also one of the things that made the book appealing to read. The events were all connected and it gave the reader two perspectives on one situation which both the characters were focusing on. I also liked that it raised awareness on real issues that refugees go through and gave me a newfound understanding on the topic. I admire their friendship although I would have liked a more romantic ending as it hinted to them both having feelings for each other near the end of the book.
February 20, 2021
god, i have a lot to say.
- first of all, the book depicts mental illness really really well. it’s not tacky and it doesn’t use stereotypes and highlights that not everybody deals with mental illness the way the character in the book does.
- it’s written in the format like ‘all the bright places’ is, where each chapter switches between the two main characters point of view. this book does it much better than ‘all the bright places’, and gives it a movie-like feel.
- through writing from both characters perspectives, siobhan curham separates the two characters personalities incredibly well and it shocked me how wells he differentiated them.
- the link at the end, holy shit, that’s so fucking cool
- first of all, the book depicts mental illness really really well. it’s not tacky and it doesn’t use stereotypes and highlights that not everybody deals with mental illness the way the character in the book does.
- it’s written in the format like ‘all the bright places’ is, where each chapter switches between the two main characters point of view. this book does it much better than ‘all the bright places’, and gives it a movie-like feel.
- through writing from both characters perspectives, siobhan curham separates the two characters personalities incredibly well and it shocked me how wells he differentiated them.
- the link at the end, holy shit, that’s so fucking cool
November 15, 2020
As a music lover I found this book an absolute joy to read! The musical references throughout are such a nice touch and give a really great sense of Stevie's character. Hafiz's evocatively written story broke my heart before piecing it all back together again in the final chapter. I thought the character dynamics such as those between Stevie and Hafiz, or Stevie and her mum, were really well conveyed. My only negative is that the book seemed to end quite abruptly but other than that I really enjoyed my time spent reading it!
March 21, 2021
*read for the incorruptibles*
it was a very hard but very important story to read. it talks about emigration, depression and most importantly it talks about friendship. the two main characters were very cute but very realistic. i was attached to them. honestly i wasn’t expecting to like it as much as i did. i can’t say if the representations were accurate but from my point of view they were realistic: not too smoothed on the edges but not too raw either. i think that they were very well handled.
it was a very hard but very important story to read. it talks about emigration, depression and most importantly it talks about friendship. the two main characters were very cute but very realistic. i was attached to them. honestly i wasn’t expecting to like it as much as i did. i can’t say if the representations were accurate but from my point of view they were realistic: not too smoothed on the edges but not too raw either. i think that they were very well handled.
February 24, 2019
I wanted to like this more. The idea of a girl dealing with the her mother's depression and a life spiralling into poverty befriending a teenage Syrian refugee was good. But I feel we were short-changed in the stories of both Stevie, who was magnificent, and Hafiz. I feel like Hafiz's story was glanced over.
August 15, 2019
A lovely YA on accepting people and learning about others. I think it would be a good book for people just starting high school to promote acceptance of asylum seekers and those people struggling with money as it shows 2 families stories through teenage eyes.
December 29, 2019
This book deals with some devastating issues in a way that makes you want to bring everyone together and create world peace. It isn't a book I would usually read, but I more or less enjoyed it, but I wouldn't say it was one of my favourites. I would still recommend it though.
September 19, 2018
See my full review on my blog here!!
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Big thank you to Walker Books for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my full and honest review. I had not heard about this book until I read the press release and once I did, I was extremely excited to read it.
The novel is told through the dual narrative and perspective of our main characters, Stevie and Hafiz. Although leading very different lives and coming from very different backgrounds, both Hafiz and Stevie are struggling through issues which ultimately bring them closer together and help solidify their friendship.
One of the aspects I loved about this novel was the way in which is highlighted and also delved into the issues the main characters are currently facing. Stevie, named after her mothers hero Stevie Nicks, has been moved to Lewes after the death of her father. Stevie is a carer for her mother who, since the death of her husband, has developed an extreme anxiety disorder and depression which prevents her from working and often times leaving the house. Stevie faces huge challenges living in such poverty to not only survive but also take on the parental role and be the carer of her mother.
This is a huge issue that is sometimes invisible as those children acting in the caring role often feel too embarrassed for fear of being seen as weak to speak out about it or ask for help in their situation. We see Stevie not only caring for her mother and being the sole provider in the house, but we also see the effects of depression on the outside party. We see Stevie witnessing her mothers depression and feeling unable to help her beat it, we see Stevie questioning why her mother will not snap out of it and look after her and we see Stevie become more and more detached from her mother as she receives no comfort or support from her.
This relationship was so well written and really eye opening about those situations which are being faced by child carers everyday. Stevie was such a great character to read about, shy but feisty and opinionated.
On the other side of this we have Hafiz who is a Syrian refugee who has come to the UK. He has been through extreme trauma and hardship to reach the UK as he has also had to travel alone. His parents and family are still in Syria and he has no way of contacting them or finding out how they are doing. On top of this Hafiz joins a new school, where he faces bullying, racism and prejudice while also falling into a slow burning friendship with Stevie.
The theme of escapism as a way of dealing with life issues is a large part of the novel. Hafiz loves football and when he plays, all his thoughts and stresses melt away as he just focuses on the game. Stevie loves music and especially the guitar and vinyl collection her late father left her. She dreams of being a musician and allows music to let her escape from her home life. I loved this theme and think everyone can relate on some level to a passion that allows you to achieve some form of escapism, whether it be playing video games, reading or running. I could strongly relate to Stevie as I also collect vinyl and hold an affinity to its unique sound.
The novel was so well written. Siobhan has mapped out the story so well that the pacing feels as if you are walking down a winding country road unlocking each chapter one after the other. The dialogue is fun and awkward and so reminiscent of teenage friendships. The issues are extremely topical and provide heartbreaking insight into the Syrian crisis and the hardships refugees face. Overall the novel left me smiling and eager to read any future work Siobhan Curham may produce.
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Big thank you to Walker Books for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my full and honest review. I had not heard about this book until I read the press release and once I did, I was extremely excited to read it.
The novel is told through the dual narrative and perspective of our main characters, Stevie and Hafiz. Although leading very different lives and coming from very different backgrounds, both Hafiz and Stevie are struggling through issues which ultimately bring them closer together and help solidify their friendship.
One of the aspects I loved about this novel was the way in which is highlighted and also delved into the issues the main characters are currently facing. Stevie, named after her mothers hero Stevie Nicks, has been moved to Lewes after the death of her father. Stevie is a carer for her mother who, since the death of her husband, has developed an extreme anxiety disorder and depression which prevents her from working and often times leaving the house. Stevie faces huge challenges living in such poverty to not only survive but also take on the parental role and be the carer of her mother.
This is a huge issue that is sometimes invisible as those children acting in the caring role often feel too embarrassed for fear of being seen as weak to speak out about it or ask for help in their situation. We see Stevie not only caring for her mother and being the sole provider in the house, but we also see the effects of depression on the outside party. We see Stevie witnessing her mothers depression and feeling unable to help her beat it, we see Stevie questioning why her mother will not snap out of it and look after her and we see Stevie become more and more detached from her mother as she receives no comfort or support from her.
This relationship was so well written and really eye opening about those situations which are being faced by child carers everyday. Stevie was such a great character to read about, shy but feisty and opinionated.
On the other side of this we have Hafiz who is a Syrian refugee who has come to the UK. He has been through extreme trauma and hardship to reach the UK as he has also had to travel alone. His parents and family are still in Syria and he has no way of contacting them or finding out how they are doing. On top of this Hafiz joins a new school, where he faces bullying, racism and prejudice while also falling into a slow burning friendship with Stevie.
The theme of escapism as a way of dealing with life issues is a large part of the novel. Hafiz loves football and when he plays, all his thoughts and stresses melt away as he just focuses on the game. Stevie loves music and especially the guitar and vinyl collection her late father left her. She dreams of being a musician and allows music to let her escape from her home life. I loved this theme and think everyone can relate on some level to a passion that allows you to achieve some form of escapism, whether it be playing video games, reading or running. I could strongly relate to Stevie as I also collect vinyl and hold an affinity to its unique sound.
The novel was so well written. Siobhan has mapped out the story so well that the pacing feels as if you are walking down a winding country road unlocking each chapter one after the other. The dialogue is fun and awkward and so reminiscent of teenage friendships. The issues are extremely topical and provide heartbreaking insight into the Syrian crisis and the hardships refugees face. Overall the novel left me smiling and eager to read any future work Siobhan Curham may produce.
May 9, 2021
“I can create me. I might not be able to control the other characters in my life but I can become the kind of hero I aspire to be.” - Stevie
10 word summary: an uplifting story of friendship, highlighting many important topical issue.
A stunningly beautiful and emotional, yet lighthearted YA novel which sensitively and bravely addresses serious issues such as: poverty within the UK, mental health, young careers, grief, war, bullying, refugees and racism.
The story is told from the perspective of two characters, alternating through out the book: Stevie and Hafiz.
Stevie, a talented musician, lives in Lewes with her mother and her much loved vinyl collection. Since the unexpected death of her father, her mum has suffered from serious depression, meaning fourteen-year-old Stevie is having to care for her mum as well as trying to find her place in the world and at school. After her mum’s benefits are cut, money becomes even tighter and they are forced into a life of poverty. The one thing that keeps Stevie going is her father’s 1980s record collection - she is named after Stevie Nicks - and her love of music.
Hafiz, a talented footballer, is a refugee from Syria and newly arrived in Lewes, his parents giving their savings in order to give Hafiz a ‘safe’ passage to Europe. Living with his uncle and aunt, he struggles to find his place in his new life and school, feeling like he always has to act like everything is ok when really he’s worried about his family and friends back in Syria and battling with the experiences that he has faced in order to reach safety.
When Hafiz and Stevie meet at school, they begin a tentative friendship. Slowly, they bond over a love of coffee as well as their feelings of isolation and sadness. The impact that they have on each other’s lives is truly remarkable as they help each other to laugh, smile, find themselves whilst creating their own story.
I genuinely couldn’t put this book down.... Although it does address so many serious issues, it is written in a lighthearted way: I laughed out loud during one chapter and was welling up/crying at the next. A MUST read!
In the classroom: Although this book is recommended for ages 12+, I am going to read it to my Y6 class during the final half-term as our class read. I’m sure that the way that Curham addresses the serious issues in a lighthearted way will lead to compassionate, serious and important discussions with the children and hopefully lead them to make a positive difference. I can’t wait to read it with them!
10 word summary: an uplifting story of friendship, highlighting many important topical issue.
A stunningly beautiful and emotional, yet lighthearted YA novel which sensitively and bravely addresses serious issues such as: poverty within the UK, mental health, young careers, grief, war, bullying, refugees and racism.
The story is told from the perspective of two characters, alternating through out the book: Stevie and Hafiz.
Stevie, a talented musician, lives in Lewes with her mother and her much loved vinyl collection. Since the unexpected death of her father, her mum has suffered from serious depression, meaning fourteen-year-old Stevie is having to care for her mum as well as trying to find her place in the world and at school. After her mum’s benefits are cut, money becomes even tighter and they are forced into a life of poverty. The one thing that keeps Stevie going is her father’s 1980s record collection - she is named after Stevie Nicks - and her love of music.
Hafiz, a talented footballer, is a refugee from Syria and newly arrived in Lewes, his parents giving their savings in order to give Hafiz a ‘safe’ passage to Europe. Living with his uncle and aunt, he struggles to find his place in his new life and school, feeling like he always has to act like everything is ok when really he’s worried about his family and friends back in Syria and battling with the experiences that he has faced in order to reach safety.
When Hafiz and Stevie meet at school, they begin a tentative friendship. Slowly, they bond over a love of coffee as well as their feelings of isolation and sadness. The impact that they have on each other’s lives is truly remarkable as they help each other to laugh, smile, find themselves whilst creating their own story.
I genuinely couldn’t put this book down.... Although it does address so many serious issues, it is written in a lighthearted way: I laughed out loud during one chapter and was welling up/crying at the next. A MUST read!
In the classroom: Although this book is recommended for ages 12+, I am going to read it to my Y6 class during the final half-term as our class read. I’m sure that the way that Curham addresses the serious issues in a lighthearted way will lead to compassionate, serious and important discussions with the children and hopefully lead them to make a positive difference. I can’t wait to read it with them!
June 8, 2021
I feel like this is a book where the premise slightly overtook the execution, but it's still a great example of why YA should not be dismissed and arguably offers the most diversity of narratives and characters out of any genre. The solidarity is lovely and the message rings true.
Although this is one of those books where the first person narration ironically creates a bit of distance from the characters because their point of view is so short and sweet, they're easy voices to empathise with and understand. Stevie particularly rings true as a young carer, who's allowed to be silly and angry and stroppy and mature while having a much more grounded view of the world than other heroines. Generally, the high school drama rings less true than anything outside it and seems a bit superficical - but then again, teens do often care about such things no matter how complex other stuff in their life is going on - and angsting about high school trivia may even be a de-pressurising excercise in letting themselves be young.
I'm slightly less enthusiastic about Hafiz's story - just because some of his concerns seem less realistic at times, but also because I'm unsure how much research Curham undertook to understand his life and point of view - especially since she doesn't, at least in the edition I've read, acknowledge any interviewees or research sources in the acknowledgements. She must have done some degree of it, but it's obviously easier for her to write about Stevie's experiences and it feels slightly uncomfortable that Curham either may have done limited research into Hafiz's perspective, or isn't expressive about what research she had done.
Stevie's mum was written very realistically from her daughter's point of view, but I think it was a little uncharitable for most of the book even so.
The romance was sweet and slight, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I see that other people were disappointed by the ending - but it felt right to me. Hopeful in all the right directions without ignoring reality or making last minute additions for a happy ending. If there was a sequel or series expansion, I'd certainly want to read any additions to this story!
Overall, a lovely tonic and re-introduction to the genre or point out of a reading slump. There were things that felt slightly superficial about the book, but these could mostly have been improved just by an expansion of the very brief page count.
Although this is one of those books where the first person narration ironically creates a bit of distance from the characters because their point of view is so short and sweet, they're easy voices to empathise with and understand. Stevie particularly rings true as a young carer, who's allowed to be silly and angry and stroppy and mature while having a much more grounded view of the world than other heroines. Generally, the high school drama rings less true than anything outside it and seems a bit superficical - but then again, teens do often care about such things no matter how complex other stuff in their life is going on - and angsting about high school trivia may even be a de-pressurising excercise in letting themselves be young.
I'm slightly less enthusiastic about Hafiz's story - just because some of his concerns seem less realistic at times, but also because I'm unsure how much research Curham undertook to understand his life and point of view - especially since she doesn't, at least in the edition I've read, acknowledge any interviewees or research sources in the acknowledgements. She must have done some degree of it, but it's obviously easier for her to write about Stevie's experiences and it feels slightly uncomfortable that Curham either may have done limited research into Hafiz's perspective, or isn't expressive about what research she had done.
Stevie's mum was written very realistically from her daughter's point of view, but I think it was a little uncharitable for most of the book even so.
The romance was sweet and slight, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I see that other people were disappointed by the ending - but it felt right to me. Hopeful in all the right directions without ignoring reality or making last minute additions for a happy ending. If there was a sequel or series expansion, I'd certainly want to read any additions to this story!
Overall, a lovely tonic and re-introduction to the genre or point out of a reading slump. There were things that felt slightly superficial about the book, but these could mostly have been improved just by an expansion of the very brief page count.
December 15, 2018
Don’t Stop Thinking About Tomorrow centres around Stevie and Hafiz. Stevie is a bit of an outsider at school. She’s dealing with a lot. Her father died a few years prior and her mother became incredibly depressed. She was unable to look after herself so certainly was neglecting Stevie’s needs. Stevie struggles to get food together and her uniform is a bit small/worn. Stevie does a paper round to try and raise some more funds. She’s also saving for a guitar because music is what makes her feel better.
Hafiz has just travelled to the UK from Syria to live with his Aunt and Uncle. He’s left his family behind and is feeling incredibly worried about their safety. Hafiz has a passion for football as an escape from his problems. He is soon picked for the school team, however, he has some troubles fitting in with some of the team who only see him as a refugee. Stevie and Hafiz are put together on Hafiz’s first day of school. The two become close and develop a friendship that supports one another. They both search for their own stories and attempt to find their purpose in life.
I really enjoyed this book because it felt realistic to the world that we live in today. I really loved Stevie and Hafiz’s friendship. The characters felt so well developed that it felt like they were real people that I was observing. I loved the alternate chapters because I wanted to read more from their points of view. I never felt confused with who was narrating a chapter. Each character had their own identity. This book really makes you think about others. It packs a powerful punch, that’s for sure. I also appreciated the focus on mental health. We do need to be speaking about it more and I was impressed with the representation of depression in this story.
Hafiz has just travelled to the UK from Syria to live with his Aunt and Uncle. He’s left his family behind and is feeling incredibly worried about their safety. Hafiz has a passion for football as an escape from his problems. He is soon picked for the school team, however, he has some troubles fitting in with some of the team who only see him as a refugee. Stevie and Hafiz are put together on Hafiz’s first day of school. The two become close and develop a friendship that supports one another. They both search for their own stories and attempt to find their purpose in life.
I really enjoyed this book because it felt realistic to the world that we live in today. I really loved Stevie and Hafiz’s friendship. The characters felt so well developed that it felt like they were real people that I was observing. I loved the alternate chapters because I wanted to read more from their points of view. I never felt confused with who was narrating a chapter. Each character had their own identity. This book really makes you think about others. It packs a powerful punch, that’s for sure. I also appreciated the focus on mental health. We do need to be speaking about it more and I was impressed with the representation of depression in this story.
December 2, 2021
Fourteen year old Stevie is having it tough. Her dad has passed away, leaving her mum severely depressed so she is unable to work. Stevie has a passion for her dad’s music and that is what gets her by in tough times.
Hafiz is a football-loving refugee from Syria. After his friend is hurt in a terrifying accident, Hafiz’s parents had to send him away. He has been mistreated on the boat journey and arrives, scarred, in the UK.
This book is about an unlikely friendship; each character is being tormented by an inner struggle and they help each other through it. The bond between Hafiz and Stevie is unique. It began as forced and awkward, but it grew. However, though they are close, they do not have a romantic relationship which is a relief.
Stevie struggles at school and at home, ways. Her passion for music helps her through times when she is feeling down. Her talent comes in handy because later in the story, she has to busk for money. Stevie and her mother are poor because after her father’s death, her mother became depressed.
Hafiz is picked on at school because he is a Syrian refugee. When playing soccer, he is rudely ignored and taunted by David Price, one of his team-mates. In fact, when it is obvious that Hafiz is in line for the perfect goal, David ignores him.
This is an emotional and confronting book and to understand and enjoy it, teenagers for whom the book is aimed, need to feel for the characters.
We had this book chosen by one of our book club members who thought we should read something relating to refugees and how right she was. I'd give this book 5 stars. It is for all ages to read.
Hafiz is a football-loving refugee from Syria. After his friend is hurt in a terrifying accident, Hafiz’s parents had to send him away. He has been mistreated on the boat journey and arrives, scarred, in the UK.
This book is about an unlikely friendship; each character is being tormented by an inner struggle and they help each other through it. The bond between Hafiz and Stevie is unique. It began as forced and awkward, but it grew. However, though they are close, they do not have a romantic relationship which is a relief.
Stevie struggles at school and at home, ways. Her passion for music helps her through times when she is feeling down. Her talent comes in handy because later in the story, she has to busk for money. Stevie and her mother are poor because after her father’s death, her mother became depressed.
Hafiz is picked on at school because he is a Syrian refugee. When playing soccer, he is rudely ignored and taunted by David Price, one of his team-mates. In fact, when it is obvious that Hafiz is in line for the perfect goal, David ignores him.
This is an emotional and confronting book and to understand and enjoy it, teenagers for whom the book is aimed, need to feel for the characters.
We had this book chosen by one of our book club members who thought we should read something relating to refugees and how right she was. I'd give this book 5 stars. It is for all ages to read.
September 17, 2018
🍁I took a brief break from my usual fare of crime fiction, to read a YA book, which was given to me by the author, Siobhan Curham. It was a treat. DON’T STOP THINKING ABOUT TOMORROW is an absolutely lovely and very endearing story of two teens, Stevie and Hafiz, who are from totally different worlds and life experiences, meeting at their suburban school, nearby (a short train ride) the seaside town of Brighton, in England.
🎸
The two are, at first, forced together as pals, on Hafiz’s first day of school. Little did they know that first awkward day would grow into a beautiful friendship, which they both so dearly needed, at that particular point in time.
⚽️
Hafiz had fled Syria, on his own, to live with his aunt and uncle in England. His trip was dangerous, harrowing and frightening. Hafiz is warmly welcomed by his aunt and uncle - whom he remembers visiting when he was six, to attend their wedding. Yet, he is terribly homesick, he misses his family, and perhaps more than anything, playing soccer with his team back home.
🎸
Stevie learned to play the guitar from her dad when she was young, music is her whole world. She’s been working hard to save money to buy a new guitar, as she’s grown out of her much beloved model. However, things have been pretty bleak for Stevie ever since her dad passed away. Her mom has sunken into a deep and devastating depression, spending everyday in bed, leaving Stevie to fend for herself.
⚽️
The way Stevie and Hafiz gravitate toward each other and find comfort, even joy, amidst the swirling turmoil of their lives is truly a beautiful and engaging story. Each chapter is written from the perspective of one or the other, switching off & on, back and forth throughout the book. Their ways of coping with such adult issues is lovingly portrayed to capture the tragic sadness, as well as delightful sweetness they find in each other’s company. I highly recommend this book, in fact I’m going to make sure my four teen nieces read it, I know they’ll love it. Also, it would be most helpful for anyone dealing with a loved one suffering from depression.
Five Stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#syria #soccer #guitar
#YA #youngadultbooks #refugees ♥️
🎸
The two are, at first, forced together as pals, on Hafiz’s first day of school. Little did they know that first awkward day would grow into a beautiful friendship, which they both so dearly needed, at that particular point in time.
⚽️
Hafiz had fled Syria, on his own, to live with his aunt and uncle in England. His trip was dangerous, harrowing and frightening. Hafiz is warmly welcomed by his aunt and uncle - whom he remembers visiting when he was six, to attend their wedding. Yet, he is terribly homesick, he misses his family, and perhaps more than anything, playing soccer with his team back home.
🎸
Stevie learned to play the guitar from her dad when she was young, music is her whole world. She’s been working hard to save money to buy a new guitar, as she’s grown out of her much beloved model. However, things have been pretty bleak for Stevie ever since her dad passed away. Her mom has sunken into a deep and devastating depression, spending everyday in bed, leaving Stevie to fend for herself.
⚽️
The way Stevie and Hafiz gravitate toward each other and find comfort, even joy, amidst the swirling turmoil of their lives is truly a beautiful and engaging story. Each chapter is written from the perspective of one or the other, switching off & on, back and forth throughout the book. Their ways of coping with such adult issues is lovingly portrayed to capture the tragic sadness, as well as delightful sweetness they find in each other’s company. I highly recommend this book, in fact I’m going to make sure my four teen nieces read it, I know they’ll love it. Also, it would be most helpful for anyone dealing with a loved one suffering from depression.
Five Stars!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#syria #soccer #guitar
#YA #youngadultbooks #refugees ♥️
August 2, 2018
Stevie is fourteen years old and lives in Lewes with her Mum...and her mum's depression which is growing worse by the day. When things get too much (which happens all too frequently these days), Stevie escapes into a brilliant vinyl record collection and a book "Stevie's Little Book of Big Song Wisdom", both left to her by her Dad. But then she meets Hafiz, also 14 and a Syrian refugee with a passion for football. Hafiz has been traveling for 2 years, having left his family behind in Syria to reach safety in the UK. His journey has been tough...really tough. Then Stevie comes into his life.
A sincere and heartfelt book, Don't Stop... deals with the difficult and timely issues of racism, the Syrian refugee crisis and depression. It pulls no punches, handling the issues with great understanding and sensitivity, but also with pinpoint accuracy. At the core of the story, it is about friendship, empathy and belonging. While in other hands, this could make for a very heavy, depressing read, Curham has injected this story with hope and promise. It is a very emotional book (keep the tissues handy), but it is also thoughtful, expressive and joyful. I absolutely loved every page.
A sincere and heartfelt book, Don't Stop... deals with the difficult and timely issues of racism, the Syrian refugee crisis and depression. It pulls no punches, handling the issues with great understanding and sensitivity, but also with pinpoint accuracy. At the core of the story, it is about friendship, empathy and belonging. While in other hands, this could make for a very heavy, depressing read, Curham has injected this story with hope and promise. It is a very emotional book (keep the tissues handy), but it is also thoughtful, expressive and joyful. I absolutely loved every page.
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