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The End of Time
Beneath the stars, on a stony beach, stand two brothers.
They are wearing lifejackets that are too big for them and their most precious belongings are sealed in waterproof bags tucked inside the rucksacks on their backs.
Turkey is behind them. Two or three kilometres' swim away is the Greek island of Samos, now only a smudge in the moonlight.
Their feet are blistered from walking, their energy is failing.
They wade forward into the Aegean Sea and count one, two, three.
This is the story of what happens next.
This is the story of Mohammed and Zain.
Brothers. Sons. Refugees.
They are wearing lifejackets that are too big for them and their most precious belongings are sealed in waterproof bags tucked inside the rucksacks on their backs.
Turkey is behind them. Two or three kilometres' swim away is the Greek island of Samos, now only a smudge in the moonlight.
Their feet are blistered from walking, their energy is failing.
They wade forward into the Aegean Sea and count one, two, three.
This is the story of what happens next.
This is the story of Mohammed and Zain.
Brothers. Sons. Refugees.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2019
11 people are currently reading
577 people want to read
About the author
Gavin Extence
7 books415 followersGavin Extence was born in 1982 and grew up in the interestingly named village of Swineshead, Lincolnshire. From the ages of 5-11, he enjoyed a brief but illustrious career as a chess player, winning numerous national championships and travelling to Moscow and St Petersburg to pit his wits against the finest young minds in Russia. He won only one game.
Gavin is currently working on his second novel. When he is not writing, he enjoys cooking, amateur astronomy and going to Alton Towers.
Gavin is currently working on his second novel. When he is not writing, he enjoys cooking, amateur astronomy and going to Alton Towers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 24, 2019
You'll feel your heart being tugged when you read this. The plight of two teenage boys, fleeing the war in Syria is bound to be a heart breaker. I am a fan of this author having read two of his previous books and loved them. He has a way of writing about big issues with a gentle hand which is endearing and completely engaging and that is what he has done here. Through the eyes of his main character Zain, he takes through the myriad issues that face refugees. The fact that they are leaving their homes and loved ones and setting off on a journey to an unknown place with a completely unknown future, lack of money, it is dangerous and with what at times seem like insurmountable difficulties.
Zain and Mohammad wash up on a beach in Greece and then swim from there to Turkey at what is just the beginning of their long journey hoping to get to the U.K. it seems such an unlikely goal but they are gritty kids. On the beach they meet an elderly man called Jesus, he rescues them but in turn they rescue him and he becomes their travelling companion. He is difficult and worst of all is a very bad alcoholic but Zain feels a responsibility for him even if Mohammad is less keen, but then Mohammad is 14 and very self absorbed, understandable in one so young who has been wrenched from everything he knows and loves. Zain is sensible, he manages Mohammad so well, he promised his mum as they left that he would always look after his little brother and this is a promise he is determined to keep. These three will travel through country after country on their quest but on the way they will find strength and love and discover who they are along the way. The boys will discover that Jesus has a secret, they will cope with his alcoholism, they will become separated and there will be danger and sadness galore. The scenes at the end of the book are totally stunning and incredibly moving, tears were shed.
I only have a tiny criticism of this book, it is just slightly too long and could have been tighter in places but really it is one of those treasures of a story that we need in our lives right now. It is moving and topical. I was cheering for these boys from the start.
Thanks to the publishers and to Netgalley for giving me access to this lovely book.
Zain and Mohammad wash up on a beach in Greece and then swim from there to Turkey at what is just the beginning of their long journey hoping to get to the U.K. it seems such an unlikely goal but they are gritty kids. On the beach they meet an elderly man called Jesus, he rescues them but in turn they rescue him and he becomes their travelling companion. He is difficult and worst of all is a very bad alcoholic but Zain feels a responsibility for him even if Mohammad is less keen, but then Mohammad is 14 and very self absorbed, understandable in one so young who has been wrenched from everything he knows and loves. Zain is sensible, he manages Mohammad so well, he promised his mum as they left that he would always look after his little brother and this is a promise he is determined to keep. These three will travel through country after country on their quest but on the way they will find strength and love and discover who they are along the way. The boys will discover that Jesus has a secret, they will cope with his alcoholism, they will become separated and there will be danger and sadness galore. The scenes at the end of the book are totally stunning and incredibly moving, tears were shed.
I only have a tiny criticism of this book, it is just slightly too long and could have been tighter in places but really it is one of those treasures of a story that we need in our lives right now. It is moving and topical. I was cheering for these boys from the start.
Thanks to the publishers and to Netgalley for giving me access to this lovely book.
June 3, 2019
The cover and blurb really intrigued me with this book so when the opportunity arose to read it, I jumped at the chance.
The story starts off with two brothers taking a leap of faith, not knowing what the future holds or whether they will even make the hard journey that is ahead of them. I couldn’t wait to read on just to see what exactly life did have in store for these two.
As a parent, I could never imagine sending my children out into the big wide world, not to embark on the journey that Mohammed and Zain are about to embark on anyway, even though they are of similar age to the characters. Then again I count my blessings every day that I live in a country that I should never have to do that. I totally understood the reasoning’s why, not that it makes in any easier to stomach. I really felt for these two brothers as well as the parents that they bravely leave behind.
The author takes us on an informative journey of just how someone would flee a country and how they get around border controls. Also what life is like in the camps that the boys find themselves in as well as the huge risks they undertake. Alongside this though, we see the pair make an unlikely friendship with another refugee, Jesus and a bond grows between the three.
Jesus is a bit of an underdog in this story. Whilst Mohammed is the main character in the story, the more I got to know about Jesus, the more I was intrigued and the more I grew to like him. At first he comes across as some crazy alcoholic but by the end I have to admit he stole a bit of my heart.
The End Of Time was an informative and in part, emotional read. It did take me a little while for the story to fully grab hold of me but when it did, I was well and truly captivated. It certainly gives the reader food for thought and hopefully will make people more understanding of the plights of refugees. A story of hope, brotherly bonds and an unlikely friendship that will pull on the heart strings.
My thanks to Hodder and Stoughton for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The story starts off with two brothers taking a leap of faith, not knowing what the future holds or whether they will even make the hard journey that is ahead of them. I couldn’t wait to read on just to see what exactly life did have in store for these two.
As a parent, I could never imagine sending my children out into the big wide world, not to embark on the journey that Mohammed and Zain are about to embark on anyway, even though they are of similar age to the characters. Then again I count my blessings every day that I live in a country that I should never have to do that. I totally understood the reasoning’s why, not that it makes in any easier to stomach. I really felt for these two brothers as well as the parents that they bravely leave behind.
The author takes us on an informative journey of just how someone would flee a country and how they get around border controls. Also what life is like in the camps that the boys find themselves in as well as the huge risks they undertake. Alongside this though, we see the pair make an unlikely friendship with another refugee, Jesus and a bond grows between the three.
Jesus is a bit of an underdog in this story. Whilst Mohammed is the main character in the story, the more I got to know about Jesus, the more I was intrigued and the more I grew to like him. At first he comes across as some crazy alcoholic but by the end I have to admit he stole a bit of my heart.
The End Of Time was an informative and in part, emotional read. It did take me a little while for the story to fully grab hold of me but when it did, I was well and truly captivated. It certainly gives the reader food for thought and hopefully will make people more understanding of the plights of refugees. A story of hope, brotherly bonds and an unlikely friendship that will pull on the heart strings.
My thanks to Hodder and Stoughton for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
July 25, 2019
‘I’d like to shout as loudly as I can about compassion and understanding and empathy. I hope that’s one of the things this novel does.’
The afterword Gavin Extence writes is as interesting as the novel itself. He is inspired by meeting a young refugee, part of whose journey from the Middle East involved swimming across the sea from Turkey to a Greek island, to imagine what it must be like to leave behind everything you have ever known and travel (by sea, rail, road and, most often, by foot) across Europe towards an uncertain future. His main characters, teenage Syrian brothers, are brave and resourceful yet dependent throughout on luck and the kindness of strangers. That’s the message: we (the strangers) have a duty to help.
Apart from that, I didn’t take anything much else from this book. I didn’t really learn anything new - the Greeks are willing but overwhelmed, the Germans are welcoming, the Hungarians not so much - and it seems a little out of date now (the Calais ‘jungle’, for example). But if it serves its purpose to highlight the plight of refugees, I’ll be happy.
With thanks to Hodder & Stoughton via NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC.
The afterword Gavin Extence writes is as interesting as the novel itself. He is inspired by meeting a young refugee, part of whose journey from the Middle East involved swimming across the sea from Turkey to a Greek island, to imagine what it must be like to leave behind everything you have ever known and travel (by sea, rail, road and, most often, by foot) across Europe towards an uncertain future. His main characters, teenage Syrian brothers, are brave and resourceful yet dependent throughout on luck and the kindness of strangers. That’s the message: we (the strangers) have a duty to help.
Apart from that, I didn’t take anything much else from this book. I didn’t really learn anything new - the Greeks are willing but overwhelmed, the Germans are welcoming, the Hungarians not so much - and it seems a little out of date now (the Calais ‘jungle’, for example). But if it serves its purpose to highlight the plight of refugees, I’ll be happy.
With thanks to Hodder & Stoughton via NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC.
April 26, 2020
This is a beautifully told story, chronicling the journey of Zain and Mohammed as they make their away (against the odds) as refugees from Syria to the UK. Along the way they fall in with an older Iraqi man who gives his name as Jesus, and who is both a burden and ultimately their saviour. There are fantastical elements interwoven into the story in interesting ways. After all, as the cover of my edition of the book states, "I'm not here to tell you what's possible, only what happened." The book is told from Zain's perspective, and reveals the story of not only the boys' bid for asylum, but also how Zain grapples with his identity and how he fits in with those around him. A highly recommended read that doesn't flinch from the realities that refugees face every day, but that also shines a light on the kindness of those who help the trio along their journey.
Rating - 9/10
Rating - 9/10
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2024
I really enjoyed following these 2 Syrian refugees on their journey. The author told their story with compassion but not syrupy sentimentality. It's quite a simple book, but I guess with such potentially heavy subject matter you run the danger or switching people off so this was an interesting way of tackling it.
July 28, 2019
The End of Time is a fabulous modern story about the differences and similarities between people of all races and religions.
Told in first person with empathy and humour, it centres on on the story of two teenage Syrian brothers trying to reach the U.K. where they hope to leave the war behind them and start a new life.
One of the brothers insists on bringing a strange man named Jesus along with them, despite the fact that he’s an alcoholic and more of a hindrance than a help. Along the way they discover random kindness and cruelty and start to question the existence of divine intervention.
I really enjoyed this book. It’s written in an easy-reading style that allows you to become immersed in the story but also pause and think about the questions it raises along the way. The quirky, earnest characters will stay with me for a long time.
Author Gavin Extence has an uncanny ability to draw the western reader in and build empathy with the perceived ‘other’ that is the seething mass of refugees making their way into and across Europe.
Maybe you’ve struggled to understand why people flee their own country to seek refuge elsewhere, or maybe you’ve wondered how people manage to make it to their chosen country of refuge at all. If this describes you, or someone you know, The End of Time is an excellent book in which to seek answers.
Told in first person with empathy and humour, it centres on on the story of two teenage Syrian brothers trying to reach the U.K. where they hope to leave the war behind them and start a new life.
One of the brothers insists on bringing a strange man named Jesus along with them, despite the fact that he’s an alcoholic and more of a hindrance than a help. Along the way they discover random kindness and cruelty and start to question the existence of divine intervention.
I really enjoyed this book. It’s written in an easy-reading style that allows you to become immersed in the story but also pause and think about the questions it raises along the way. The quirky, earnest characters will stay with me for a long time.
Author Gavin Extence has an uncanny ability to draw the western reader in and build empathy with the perceived ‘other’ that is the seething mass of refugees making their way into and across Europe.
Maybe you’ve struggled to understand why people flee their own country to seek refuge elsewhere, or maybe you’ve wondered how people manage to make it to their chosen country of refuge at all. If this describes you, or someone you know, The End of Time is an excellent book in which to seek answers.
February 1, 2020
A constellation of glorious stars for this beautiful book!! I have laughed out loud often, and read through the final pages with tears streaming from the bottom of my sunglasses. This is a book that brings to life the battle of our displaced brothers and sisters, and the unbelievable power of human kindness and compassion. If this book doesn’t crack your heart wide open, I fear it may already be decomposing.
Right now, as I turn the last page, this book has my heart held fiercely in its grip and I can’t quite breath properly, so I’ll now lay it down and share this from the author.... ‘For every person spewing bile on social media, there were probably ten using the #RefugeesWelcome hashtag. And there were many thousands of people, all across Europe, donating time and food and money and clothing to those in need. The problem of course, is that compassion tends to be much quieter than anger and ignorance and prejudice. Compassion often takes place behind the scenes, while prejudice stands centre stage and grabs the headlines.’
As the Corona Virus feeds the new wave of vitriolic hatred and reawakens the worst in human nature, I give thanks for the moment of quiet this book created, so I could hear once again, the whisper of human decency. And be reminded that we can all be brave and kind.
❤️❤️❤️
Right now, as I turn the last page, this book has my heart held fiercely in its grip and I can’t quite breath properly, so I’ll now lay it down and share this from the author.... ‘For every person spewing bile on social media, there were probably ten using the #RefugeesWelcome hashtag. And there were many thousands of people, all across Europe, donating time and food and money and clothing to those in need. The problem of course, is that compassion tends to be much quieter than anger and ignorance and prejudice. Compassion often takes place behind the scenes, while prejudice stands centre stage and grabs the headlines.’
As the Corona Virus feeds the new wave of vitriolic hatred and reawakens the worst in human nature, I give thanks for the moment of quiet this book created, so I could hear once again, the whisper of human decency. And be reminded that we can all be brave and kind.
❤️❤️❤️
June 4, 2019
'The End of Time' is a fantastic book, the best I've read in a long while. I'm a huge fan of Gavin Extence's previous works, and this is another dazzler. It's hugely deep, real and emotional with many moments of sadness, fear and unfairness. And yet it is littered from the beginning with hope, humour and kindness. It truly shows the best of human nature, during circumstances bought on by the worst of it.
Zayn, and his brother Mohammed are fleeing Syria, in the hope of a new, safer life in Europe. Desperate to reach the UK to fulfill his academic dreams and protect his brother, Zayn constantly pushes through his circumstances with honesty and warmth. When they meet an odd, alcoholic man named "Jesus" their journey is changed...in some bad ways and some good. It's truly a fantastic story of humanity, and should be read by everybody. A lot of research and care was obviously taken to portray a very real story, and something we should all, as humans, feel passionate about.
Thank you Netgalley for my advance copy, and thank you Gavin Extence, for another fantastic story. I loved every moment.
Zayn, and his brother Mohammed are fleeing Syria, in the hope of a new, safer life in Europe. Desperate to reach the UK to fulfill his academic dreams and protect his brother, Zayn constantly pushes through his circumstances with honesty and warmth. When they meet an odd, alcoholic man named "Jesus" their journey is changed...in some bad ways and some good. It's truly a fantastic story of humanity, and should be read by everybody. A lot of research and care was obviously taken to portray a very real story, and something we should all, as humans, feel passionate about.
Thank you Netgalley for my advance copy, and thank you Gavin Extence, for another fantastic story. I loved every moment.
January 2, 2020
This is an interesting story with just the right amount of descriptive detail. It has a conversational style of writing which is very engaging. It immediately draws you in and makes you feel like settling in for a good satisfying read. The characters are likeable and endearing.
It introduced me to a situation I knew little about, apart from news stories on tv. My own journey as an immigrant, which I thought difficult at the time, was absolutely nothing in comparison.
'Magic become technology'
I loved 'The Universe Versus Alex Woods' and this one is just as good. The main character Zain, has the same attributes as Alex, pragmatic, efficient, trustworthy, and empathetic.
One of my favourite books of 2019
It introduced me to a situation I knew little about, apart from news stories on tv. My own journey as an immigrant, which I thought difficult at the time, was absolutely nothing in comparison.
'Magic become technology'
I loved 'The Universe Versus Alex Woods' and this one is just as good. The main character Zain, has the same attributes as Alex, pragmatic, efficient, trustworthy, and empathetic.
One of my favourite books of 2019
February 4, 2023
Extremely well researched and a fascinating insight into the plight of refugees. It took a while for me to get into the story and I found the style a bit dry, but as I got further into the book, I became more captivated.
The surprising aspect was how many people were sympathetic and keen to help throughout the arduous journey from the Middle East and on to Europe and beyond. Gavin Extence mentioned in his very interesting Author’s Note at the end, for every person ranting against refugees on social media, there are probably 10 who are doing everything they can to help. Sadly, “compassion tends to be much quieter than anger and ignorance and prejudice”.
The surprising aspect was how many people were sympathetic and keen to help throughout the arduous journey from the Middle East and on to Europe and beyond. Gavin Extence mentioned in his very interesting Author’s Note at the end, for every person ranting against refugees on social media, there are probably 10 who are doing everything they can to help. Sadly, “compassion tends to be much quieter than anger and ignorance and prejudice”.
December 23, 2022
A harrowing tale of teen brothers who flee Syria by swimming from Turkey to Greece, passing through Macedonia, Hungary, Germany and France en route to their desired destination. They are accompanied by a high-needs older man named Jesus who wears pink flip-flops and insists he has rescued them (when he clearly couldn't last a day without them). While mystical events are a minor theme, and personal secrets feature: the story rings true, and reminds us of the humanity of displaced people everywhere.
May 7, 2020
I can see why this novel holds appeal - the topic of young refugees crossing Europe in the search of safety and a better life is an important one. The book is written in a very accessible style too. However, I have read much better novels about refugees than this one.
We are about to start discussing this with my online book group and I may find more to appreciate when we have had that conversation.
We are about to start discussing this with my online book group and I may find more to appreciate when we have had that conversation.
October 18, 2019
The immigrant experience: moments of humour are found in this upsetting look at brothers trying to better their lives.
From their home country to the UK. We hear about people of all ages making this journey every day. Not often do we follow a pair of brothers as they make it. Through the physical grind, the paperwork, the dehumanising treatment, the acts of kindness, the bonds made, the heartbreak.
Mohammed and Zain have been sent from their warn-torn home, not knowing the fate of their family, but knowing they cannot return. Heading for Britain, they have a long way to travel, and must strategically plan each step for resources, routes and risks.
Eldest brother Mohammed is an academic and secret atheist (a copy of The God Delusion hidden inside Dickens), with sexuality issues hidden from his brother that he worries about revealing. Zain is a rather typical teenager, obsessed with mobile phones and with a foul mouth a sailor would be proud of. On their journey they meet the alcoholic Jesus, who somehow ends up tagging along with them, his 'premonitions' disturbing them.
We see other characters in similar situations, see what immigrants en masse must contend with, though it felt like overall people they came across were either indifferent or philanthropic rather than angry/antagonistic.
The story takes some very moving turns and it's never certain if our brothers are going to make it to safety. Mohammed is very relatable, with a big heart and aspirations, Zain's spirit is hard to dislike.
"'We sit tight,' I told him. 'Wait for them to let us go.' 'That's not a plan!' my brother complained. 'That's just bending over and taking it!'"
Seeing young people struggling through these circumstances is difficult, it brings it home how an immigrant is just another person, trying to feel safe and happy.
The secondary story of Jesus is quite a moving one, with more than one issue raised from it, aside from his immigrant status. Together the three main characters tell a contemporary story that needs telling.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing an advance reading copy.
From their home country to the UK. We hear about people of all ages making this journey every day. Not often do we follow a pair of brothers as they make it. Through the physical grind, the paperwork, the dehumanising treatment, the acts of kindness, the bonds made, the heartbreak.
Mohammed and Zain have been sent from their warn-torn home, not knowing the fate of their family, but knowing they cannot return. Heading for Britain, they have a long way to travel, and must strategically plan each step for resources, routes and risks.
Eldest brother Mohammed is an academic and secret atheist (a copy of The God Delusion hidden inside Dickens), with sexuality issues hidden from his brother that he worries about revealing. Zain is a rather typical teenager, obsessed with mobile phones and with a foul mouth a sailor would be proud of. On their journey they meet the alcoholic Jesus, who somehow ends up tagging along with them, his 'premonitions' disturbing them.
We see other characters in similar situations, see what immigrants en masse must contend with, though it felt like overall people they came across were either indifferent or philanthropic rather than angry/antagonistic.
The story takes some very moving turns and it's never certain if our brothers are going to make it to safety. Mohammed is very relatable, with a big heart and aspirations, Zain's spirit is hard to dislike.
"'We sit tight,' I told him. 'Wait for them to let us go.' 'That's not a plan!' my brother complained. 'That's just bending over and taking it!'"
Seeing young people struggling through these circumstances is difficult, it brings it home how an immigrant is just another person, trying to feel safe and happy.
The secondary story of Jesus is quite a moving one, with more than one issue raised from it, aside from his immigrant status. Together the three main characters tell a contemporary story that needs telling.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing an advance reading copy.
March 3, 2020
An unforgettable and captivating read, which I found hard to put down. It tells of triumph over adversity, also touching on the topics of race, religion and alcoholism. The story concentrates on two brothers fleeing Syria, on the insistence of their mother after their father is arrested by the authorities, a chance encounter with an Iraqi man named Jesus on a Greek beach and their subsequent journey to the West together; passing through numerous countries and meeting various people a long the way.
January 11, 2023
I’m struggling to write a review that is worthy of this book. It’s a story of incredible courage, grim determination, faith and maybe miracles. And I loved it! I just don’t know how to do it justice. I can’t even imagine what it must take to do what these young men did; what many people have done in the past and are still doing. So I’ll just say it’s a great story, well written and I highly recommend it!
August 2, 2021
I enjoyed reading this latest novel from Gavin Extence - Zain and Mohammed traversing Europe as Syrian refugees. Two likeable characters, and you were really rooting for them to be successful in reaching their UK goal. As the refugee crisis continues to get bad press, it is sometimes easy to forget that these are human beings, trying to escape an indescribably awful situation. Whilst the boys' background was downplayed to some extent, you could see how traumatised they were. And then there is Jesus - the mysterious alcoholic Iraqi, their guardian angel in pink flip-flops! A strange and often beguiling character.
I so wanted this to be a 5* read - I still class Alex Woods as one of the best books I ever read. None of the author's later works have quite captured the quirky emotional highs of that book, which had me laughing and crying out loud. The End of Time didn't quite get there for me - whilst rooting for the boys all the way, it felt like it was holding back a little bit. It didn't reach in to rip my heart out.
Highly recommended even so.
I so wanted this to be a 5* read - I still class Alex Woods as one of the best books I ever read. None of the author's later works have quite captured the quirky emotional highs of that book, which had me laughing and crying out loud. The End of Time didn't quite get there for me - whilst rooting for the boys all the way, it felt like it was holding back a little bit. It didn't reach in to rip my heart out.
Highly recommended even so.
May 3, 2020
Excellent. Insightful. Captivating. Real. Emotional. Contemporary.
Best read for a longtime.
Humans being.
Best read for a longtime.
Humans being.
July 19, 2019
Gavin Extence is an undiscovered treasure. That is important for my review because the moment I saw his name on the cover I didn't really care for it or the synopsis before requesting it. That's how I got slapped in the face with this book's theme.
The book is still very funny in a Gavin Extence kind of way and there are plenty of heartwarming moments, the entire book fueled by fear but mostly by an undercurrent of love. Zain's love for his brother. The book doesn't pull any punches though.
At the same time, this book speaks to the West's hypocrisy and lack of empathy it also makes sure to notice how there are kind people everywhere, brave people that sometimes defy their government's rules to aid those in need. The reader still ends up feeling put on the spot because of the way the book is written, with Zain speaking to us in the first person and stopping once in a while to break the fourth wall.
One of the things I loved the most about this book was Zain. Zain has a secret, a very important, heavy secret but the author only reveals it midway through the book, making sure that it was too late for that to influence our opinion of Zain.
Gavin Extence's books are always imbued with a sense of magic that always make me feel that they are a portal to Fairyland. This book was no different. Although it wasn't as showy as The Universe vs Alex Woods, it's a pretty solid piece of writing that provides us with a window to a situation that most of us are only marginally aware of. My first reaction after finishing it was just looking around to all the things I make use of every day without a second thought.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for this ARC.
The book is still very funny in a Gavin Extence kind of way and there are plenty of heartwarming moments, the entire book fueled by fear but mostly by an undercurrent of love. Zain's love for his brother. The book doesn't pull any punches though.
At the same time, this book speaks to the West's hypocrisy and lack of empathy it also makes sure to notice how there are kind people everywhere, brave people that sometimes defy their government's rules to aid those in need. The reader still ends up feeling put on the spot because of the way the book is written, with Zain speaking to us in the first person and stopping once in a while to break the fourth wall.
One of the things I loved the most about this book was Zain. Zain has a secret, a very important, heavy secret but the author only reveals it midway through the book, making sure that it was too late for that to influence our opinion of Zain.
Gavin Extence's books are always imbued with a sense of magic that always make me feel that they are a portal to Fairyland. This book was no different. Although it wasn't as showy as The Universe vs Alex Woods, it's a pretty solid piece of writing that provides us with a window to a situation that most of us are only marginally aware of. My first reaction after finishing it was just looking around to all the things I make use of every day without a second thought.
Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for this ARC.
June 25, 2019
By far, my favourite book of 2019 so far.
19 year old Zain and his 14 year old brother, Mohammed have reached Turkey having fled from Syria. They hope that their final destination will be the UK. In Greece, their paths cross with ‘Jesus’ from Iran. The three of them set out to travel to Western Europe.
‘The End Of Time’ is an amazing book. Gavin is such a superb storyteller. What should be a wholly depressing tale, is yet filled with such light, joy and laugh out loud moments.
I cannot do better in my review than mention a couple of things that Gavin records in his author’s notes. First, he refers to Atticus Finch staying that novels novels encourage us to climb into someone else’s skin and walk around it. Secondly, Gavin states as well as trying to tell a compelling story, he wants to shout about compassion, understanding and empathy. He achieves all of these things in bucketfuls.
A highly recommended must read for all.
Thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
19 year old Zain and his 14 year old brother, Mohammed have reached Turkey having fled from Syria. They hope that their final destination will be the UK. In Greece, their paths cross with ‘Jesus’ from Iran. The three of them set out to travel to Western Europe.
‘The End Of Time’ is an amazing book. Gavin is such a superb storyteller. What should be a wholly depressing tale, is yet filled with such light, joy and laugh out loud moments.
I cannot do better in my review than mention a couple of things that Gavin records in his author’s notes. First, he refers to Atticus Finch staying that novels novels encourage us to climb into someone else’s skin and walk around it. Secondly, Gavin states as well as trying to tell a compelling story, he wants to shout about compassion, understanding and empathy. He achieves all of these things in bucketfuls.
A highly recommended must read for all.
Thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2019
This book was remarkable. I picked it up at the library after the cover art caught my eye; thinking it looked like an adventure novel (my favourite). I’d normally steer clear of something about war, death, migrants, asylum camps...due to being far too upsetting. This book was not so. It warmed my soul. It made me realise we really need to educate ourselves in the art of not being judgemental. I’ve never thought of myself as judgemental, have always felt open-minded, but on reading The End Of Time, I’ve realised - how can we not be judgemental when 90% of the time we only know part of someone’s story. This book impacted me in a way that I have found rather life-changing. It is the most human piece of fiction I have read in years, and I don’t know why this author is relatively unknown. Loved it. Just read it.
November 26, 2019
As a novel, I found this to be disappointing and fairly mediocre. Sorry Gavin, ( we met at a book signing in Corbridge)
I need to follow that sentence up with the fact that TUVAW is one of my most favourite books ever !!!!
As a vehicle to help raise more awareness of the plight of Syrian refugees however, it succeeds in spades.
The author was inspired to write this following a meeting with a young man in the drop in centre where he was volunteering, who casually told him he had swum ‘from Turkey to Greece.
The message about compassion, understanding and empathy is received loud and clear, along with what it means to be human.
I need to follow that sentence up with the fact that TUVAW is one of my most favourite books ever !!!!
As a vehicle to help raise more awareness of the plight of Syrian refugees however, it succeeds in spades.
The author was inspired to write this following a meeting with a young man in the drop in centre where he was volunteering, who casually told him he had swum ‘from Turkey to Greece.
The message about compassion, understanding and empathy is received loud and clear, along with what it means to be human.
August 5, 2019
Gavin Extence has done it again with this amazing book about triumph over adversity, about seeing the good instead of the bad and about putting yourself in somebody else’s shoes.
It’s almost a parable and yet at times you feel you are reading an autobiography, so real is Zain’s story. Articles that have appeared in the news about refugees take on a deeper meaning.
Race, religion and alcoholism all feature strongly in this humorous, thought provoking and deeply touching book. Read it and feel uplifted.
It’s almost a parable and yet at times you feel you are reading an autobiography, so real is Zain’s story. Articles that have appeared in the news about refugees take on a deeper meaning.
Race, religion and alcoholism all feature strongly in this humorous, thought provoking and deeply touching book. Read it and feel uplifted.
November 2, 2019
One of my books of the year. Excellent.
July 22, 2019
Every so often I need a break from crime fiction and just want to read a story. I want to meet wonderful characters and witness their journeys through life. This was that book for me. We meet two brothers as they are just about to start a new chapter in their lives. Mohammed and Zain are about to swim to freedom. To leave their dark pasts and embark on a new adventure. An adventure that, although they may not survive, they have to try. And so they take the plunge into the unknown...
On the other side (not really a spoiler as, if they didn't make it, it'd be a very short and pointless book) they meet up with the rather strange character of Jesus, a crazy alcoholic who obviously has a bit of a past but, needs must and safety in numbers and all that. And now is the time to really grab your tissues as we follow our, now, trio as the attempt to cross Europe and get to the UK. Faced with danger from all sides - not just the authorities - they have borders to negotiate. Will fortune favour the brave and will they all make it? Well, that'd be telling...
Oh my days. This book sucked me in right from the off, held me captive throughout, chewing me up a bit emotionally, before spitting me out at the end, completely exhausted but, at the same time, wholly satisfied. It was a journey that I thank my stars that I will never have to make myself. I felt for these boys (and their chaperone) every step of the day. To say I invested emotionally in them would be a bit of an understatement.
It also opened my eyes about a fair few things along the way. Some bad, obviously, but quite a few surprisingly amazing moments. Despite all the peril and danger there was always the feeling of hope bubbling under throughout. We see the best of people as well as the worst of them.
Pacing was, on the whole, good throughout. There are slow parts but I felt that they were necessary as they spoke to how the characters must have been feeling at those times, and so they reflected the story well.
All in all, a beautiful novel which shows humanity as it is today, pulling no punches and delivering shocks and surprises along the way. An important book and one that is pertinent in the world we live in today. A book I feel proud and privileged to have read. One that will stay with me for a while. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
On the other side (not really a spoiler as, if they didn't make it, it'd be a very short and pointless book) they meet up with the rather strange character of Jesus, a crazy alcoholic who obviously has a bit of a past but, needs must and safety in numbers and all that. And now is the time to really grab your tissues as we follow our, now, trio as the attempt to cross Europe and get to the UK. Faced with danger from all sides - not just the authorities - they have borders to negotiate. Will fortune favour the brave and will they all make it? Well, that'd be telling...
Oh my days. This book sucked me in right from the off, held me captive throughout, chewing me up a bit emotionally, before spitting me out at the end, completely exhausted but, at the same time, wholly satisfied. It was a journey that I thank my stars that I will never have to make myself. I felt for these boys (and their chaperone) every step of the day. To say I invested emotionally in them would be a bit of an understatement.
It also opened my eyes about a fair few things along the way. Some bad, obviously, but quite a few surprisingly amazing moments. Despite all the peril and danger there was always the feeling of hope bubbling under throughout. We see the best of people as well as the worst of them.
Pacing was, on the whole, good throughout. There are slow parts but I felt that they were necessary as they spoke to how the characters must have been feeling at those times, and so they reflected the story well.
All in all, a beautiful novel which shows humanity as it is today, pulling no punches and delivering shocks and surprises along the way. An important book and one that is pertinent in the world we live in today. A book I feel proud and privileged to have read. One that will stay with me for a while. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
June 2, 2019
Imagine this. You are a teenage boy, and instead of wondering which video games are trending or if your peers approve of your new haircut, you are fleeing your war-torn country in search of a safer life. To begin this journey which will span months, you must first swim across the open ocean from Turkey to Greece carrying your only belongings on your back. You have no idea wether the parents you left behind are alive. Oh, and you are also responsible for your younger brother. This sometimes depressing, other times charming tale of two Syrian brothers seeking asylum in the United Kingdom was an insight into the ordeal that so many face, and some simply do not survive. It champions two siblings; Zain is the level-headed older brother whose unwavering morals continually see him putting others needs before his own throughout the story, regardless of his own harrowing situation. Mohammed is a scrappy little rain cloud of a fourteen year old, full of cuss words and obscene gestures. His witty presence in the story was a highlight for me. Their path becomes entangled with a functioning alcoholic named Jesus and together they overcome language barriers and physical barriers with grace, humour and intense bravery. It is historical fiction which shines a spotlight on the Calais riots and subsequent disruption to the Eurotunnel. But it also spotlights resilience in the face of adversity, and the ability for humans to turn towards each other with love and understanding, instead of turning away.
🌊 🌊 🌊
Many thanks to the wonderful publishers at Hachette Australia, Hodder & Stoughton, and NetGalley for the privilege of receiving this advanced copy to review. 📚 Publication date is the 23rd of July. 📚
🌊 🌊 🌊
Many thanks to the wonderful publishers at Hachette Australia, Hodder & Stoughton, and NetGalley for the privilege of receiving this advanced copy to review. 📚 Publication date is the 23rd of July. 📚
March 3, 2024
I was a refugee teenager, so have been passionate about the rights of asylum, the protection of those fleeing terrible conditions — and the benefits refugees bring to their adoptive countries. Therefore, this novel speaks to me. It will stay with me for a long time.
The narrator, Zain, is a young man his mother has tasked with protecting his younger brother when they both need to flee Syria. She is staying behind in the hope of helping her husband, jailed for an act of courage that reminds me of Schindler’s List.
Their times and circumstances as Middle Eastern refugees trying to find a home in Europe are horrific, but the book is the opposite of horror: it shows the basic decency and generosity of many ordinary people. It is a story from the heart, to the heart. After reading it, you will not be able to be prejudiced against Muslims, refugees from anywhere, atheists and those who honestly follow a religion, those killing themselves with alcohol, homosexual people, or, well, anyone.
Zain is an unbeliever. His companion claims to be Jesus the Messiah but doesn’t act it. And yet, the message is that of unconditional, universal Love.
I do have three criticisms. First, nothing in the story seems to relate to the title.
Second, the narrative is overly slow in some places when Zain philosophises rather too long, and his language is rather complex and formal. OK, this is very much in character for him, but does reduce tension.
Third, Zain is too good. He always makes the moral choice, never does anything dishonest or unkind; seems too good to be true.
All the same, five stars for this wonderful read.
The narrator, Zain, is a young man his mother has tasked with protecting his younger brother when they both need to flee Syria. She is staying behind in the hope of helping her husband, jailed for an act of courage that reminds me of Schindler’s List.
Their times and circumstances as Middle Eastern refugees trying to find a home in Europe are horrific, but the book is the opposite of horror: it shows the basic decency and generosity of many ordinary people. It is a story from the heart, to the heart. After reading it, you will not be able to be prejudiced against Muslims, refugees from anywhere, atheists and those who honestly follow a religion, those killing themselves with alcohol, homosexual people, or, well, anyone.
Zain is an unbeliever. His companion claims to be Jesus the Messiah but doesn’t act it. And yet, the message is that of unconditional, universal Love.
I do have three criticisms. First, nothing in the story seems to relate to the title.
Second, the narrative is overly slow in some places when Zain philosophises rather too long, and his language is rather complex and formal. OK, this is very much in character for him, but does reduce tension.
Third, Zain is too good. He always makes the moral choice, never does anything dishonest or unkind; seems too good to be true.
All the same, five stars for this wonderful read.
February 4, 2022
The story of two teenage Syrian brothers and their crossing through Europe to seek asylum in England. They early on meet an old, alcoholic Iraqi man who calls himself Jesus, who eventually proves indispensable in getting them closer to their goal.
I was very much interested in this book because of the topic, and did enjoy it, although in the end it felt like it missed a certain kind of (emotional) depth I had hoped to find in it. Also, I know the reality of similar events as depicted in the book to be much more horrible (especially the events as depicted in The Jungle) in real life, through both media and accounts of refugees themselves, whom my wife has worked with, so reading this book felt a bit underwhelming, for lack of a better word, as it doesn’t seem to fully do justice to what these people have to go through in order to rebuild their lives.
Having said that, I do not mean to put the author down for this: I can imagine certain decisions in terms of storytelling having been made in order to make the book more accessible to a wider audience. The book still puts a much-needed spotlight on a situation that is far too often overlooked or ignored as it is (The Jungle, for example, is still a thing in 2022, and yet we don’t hear much of it at all, anymore). It’s just that I can imagine a refugee reading this and feeling misrepresented, feeling like the story is a softened version of the terrible reality they lived through themselves.
I was very much interested in this book because of the topic, and did enjoy it, although in the end it felt like it missed a certain kind of (emotional) depth I had hoped to find in it. Also, I know the reality of similar events as depicted in the book to be much more horrible (especially the events as depicted in The Jungle) in real life, through both media and accounts of refugees themselves, whom my wife has worked with, so reading this book felt a bit underwhelming, for lack of a better word, as it doesn’t seem to fully do justice to what these people have to go through in order to rebuild their lives.
Having said that, I do not mean to put the author down for this: I can imagine certain decisions in terms of storytelling having been made in order to make the book more accessible to a wider audience. The book still puts a much-needed spotlight on a situation that is far too often overlooked or ignored as it is (The Jungle, for example, is still a thing in 2022, and yet we don’t hear much of it at all, anymore). It’s just that I can imagine a refugee reading this and feeling misrepresented, feeling like the story is a softened version of the terrible reality they lived through themselves.
August 12, 2023
I cannot thank Dar enough for putting this on my radar.
What an uplifting book - everything you want from fiction; a solid backbone in fact, with characters that delight. Three key characters that exemplify different qualities - during an episode journey.
You have the shy but intellectual older brother; the surly, trash talking younger brother and an unlikely 60 something alcoholic by the name of Jesus.
It’s just a delight of a journey. To be as exemplary as any of the three key characters, or other bit players along the way, would be an honour. As a church going person, this book is like a bible reading or a sermon, reminding me what it’s like to be someone with love, compassion and kindness in a world of cruelty and injustice.
What an uplifting book - everything you want from fiction; a solid backbone in fact, with characters that delight. Three key characters that exemplify different qualities - during an episode journey.
You have the shy but intellectual older brother; the surly, trash talking younger brother and an unlikely 60 something alcoholic by the name of Jesus.
It’s just a delight of a journey. To be as exemplary as any of the three key characters, or other bit players along the way, would be an honour. As a church going person, this book is like a bible reading or a sermon, reminding me what it’s like to be someone with love, compassion and kindness in a world of cruelty and injustice.
July 3, 2024
You'll feel your heart being tugged when you read this.
The plight of two teenage boys, fleeing the war in Syria is bound to be a heart breaker. The author has a way of writing about big issues with a gentle hand which I found endearing and completely engaging. I loved the power of human kindness and compassion described in this book, I didn’t want it to end.
I got a real sense of how difficult it is for those escaping their realities to find elsewhere safe to live and what lengths they have to endure to achieve that.
I am already privileged with a lovely lifestyle and incredibly grateful for what I have. If you’d like to read something eye opening and to hear about the struggle some asylum seeking may have to go through then this is a book for you
The plight of two teenage boys, fleeing the war in Syria is bound to be a heart breaker. The author has a way of writing about big issues with a gentle hand which I found endearing and completely engaging. I loved the power of human kindness and compassion described in this book, I didn’t want it to end.
I got a real sense of how difficult it is for those escaping their realities to find elsewhere safe to live and what lengths they have to endure to achieve that.
I am already privileged with a lovely lifestyle and incredibly grateful for what I have. If you’d like to read something eye opening and to hear about the struggle some asylum seeking may have to go through then this is a book for you
August 26, 2025
I really enjoyed 'The End of Time' and found it an easy read, despite the difficult subject it tackles. At times it almost brought me to tears, while at others it made me chuckle. The characters were well-drawn and mostly likeable, and the way they experienced both brutality and kindness rang very true to the realities faced by so many in similar situations.
I wasn’t entirely sure about the inclusion of Jesus in the narrative, but I suspect that without him the story might have felt too bleak and heavy. His presence brought a lightness and sense of hope that made the novel easier to read, and perhaps reflected the resilience and small sparks of humanity that people must hold onto when risking everything in search of a new life.
I wasn’t entirely sure about the inclusion of Jesus in the narrative, but I suspect that without him the story might have felt too bleak and heavy. His presence brought a lightness and sense of hope that made the novel easier to read, and perhaps reflected the resilience and small sparks of humanity that people must hold onto when risking everything in search of a new life.
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