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The Colour of Shadows
A moving portrayal of a teenager coming to terms with a secret about her mother that her father decided to keep from her... was he right to do so? Saffron must work that out...
Seventeen year old Saffron discovers a secret in the attic - a secret that changes both her past and her future...
Having believed ten years ago that her mother had become ill and subsequently died, Saffron learns that her mother is in fact alive and well. Angry at the years of deceit from her father and step mother, she goes in search of the truth about her mother - and leaves home.
Homeless and alone, Saffron has to deal with the mental turmoil and anger at her father as she processes the lies she has been told. And then Saffron comes face to face with the dangers of being a homeless teenage girl...
Seventeen year old Saffron discovers a secret in the attic - a secret that changes both her past and her future...
Having believed ten years ago that her mother had become ill and subsequently died, Saffron learns that her mother is in fact alive and well. Angry at the years of deceit from her father and step mother, she goes in search of the truth about her mother - and leaves home.
Homeless and alone, Saffron has to deal with the mental turmoil and anger at her father as she processes the lies she has been told. And then Saffron comes face to face with the dangers of being a homeless teenage girl...
- GenresYoung AdultContemporary
368 pages, Paperback
Published February 7, 2019
1 person is currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Phyllida Shrimpton
4 books36 followersPhyllida Shrimpton is a full-time mother of a teenage daughter and currently lives in Essex with her husband, badly behaved, small Jack Russell and a rescue Newfoundland called Nina.
She achieved a Post Graduate Degree in Human Resource Management, but soon jumped ships to work with teenagers, including students with Asperger's syndrome on an Essex based agricultural college farm before eventually moving to live temporarily in the Netherlands.
Her interests are reading, producing fine detailed black and white ink artwork and writing.
She achieved a Post Graduate Degree in Human Resource Management, but soon jumped ships to work with teenagers, including students with Asperger's syndrome on an Essex based agricultural college farm before eventually moving to live temporarily in the Netherlands.
Her interests are reading, producing fine detailed black and white ink artwork and writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 24, 2021
In the beginning this book and I had a very hard time. I did not like Saffron because she was incredibly spoiled, and I also didn’t like how many exclamations marks were used in the book. it made it feel juvenile.
But the writing style changes and flourishes as Saffron matures and has her eyes opened in the book. And in the end I really liked how the writing style changed as our main character did too. Saffron had a lot to learn about herself, the people around her and the reality of the world. it was hard to experience that journey with her, but the author handled it very well.
Tom was also such a sweetheart character. I liked him right from the beginning. He was funny and also very wise at the same time. But he is by no means a perfect character. He’s got his own problems, and his own growing to do in this book too. I think his development was also handled incredibly well.
When I read the premise of this book, I did not know homelessness was going to be a key theme in the novel – in fact, one of the main ones. I loved that the author brought to light the struggles of being homeless, and the mistreatment that a lot of homeless people receive. She really brought to the forefront a lot of suffering and pain people are experiencing on their own, and it didn’t feel forced or overdone at all. I also appreciate the research the author went into to make this representation and discussion as realistic as possible. I liked being able to read about it in the acknowledgements.
I feel like the theme of family and how love can be given to you in ways you don’t expect and from people you are unaware of, really does shine through this novel.
Overall, I think I judged this one a little too quickly. It can be hard with unlikeable main characters, but the development was very much worth sticking around for. Get through the beginning and give it a chance. It might just surprise you too.
But the writing style changes and flourishes as Saffron matures and has her eyes opened in the book. And in the end I really liked how the writing style changed as our main character did too. Saffron had a lot to learn about herself, the people around her and the reality of the world. it was hard to experience that journey with her, but the author handled it very well.
Tom was also such a sweetheart character. I liked him right from the beginning. He was funny and also very wise at the same time. But he is by no means a perfect character. He’s got his own problems, and his own growing to do in this book too. I think his development was also handled incredibly well.
When I read the premise of this book, I did not know homelessness was going to be a key theme in the novel – in fact, one of the main ones. I loved that the author brought to light the struggles of being homeless, and the mistreatment that a lot of homeless people receive. She really brought to the forefront a lot of suffering and pain people are experiencing on their own, and it didn’t feel forced or overdone at all. I also appreciate the research the author went into to make this representation and discussion as realistic as possible. I liked being able to read about it in the acknowledgements.
I feel like the theme of family and how love can be given to you in ways you don’t expect and from people you are unaware of, really does shine through this novel.
Overall, I think I judged this one a little too quickly. It can be hard with unlikeable main characters, but the development was very much worth sticking around for. Get through the beginning and give it a chance. It might just surprise you too.
January 27, 2019
I'm a big fan of author Phyllida Shrimpton after reading Sunflowers in February, that I gave five stars to, and I've given The Colour Of Shadows five stars too. I loved the sunflower on the front cover of Sunflowers in February and now I love the silky design of silver leaves on front of the paperback The Colour Of Shadows. I hope theses leaves and pictures of silky flowers will be Phyllida's trade mark design for all her books.
There's nothing worse than lies I mean being lied to. Seventeen year old Saffron for the first time goes into the family attic, that she had always been forbidden to do. But she only went into the attic to find some old photographs for an A-level project, she finds something in the attic that instantly tells her that her mother is not dead like her father had told her. I totally had full sympathy for Saffron and I was pleased that in a rage she phoned her father. After all an explanation of the truth is deserved. Upset with what she see in the attic what will Saffron do next ? And how will her dad explain what really happened to her mother. Phyllida Shrimpton is a fabulous writer and I'm very happy to strongly recommend The Sunflowers in February and The Colour Of Shadows.
There's nothing worse than lies I mean being lied to. Seventeen year old Saffron for the first time goes into the family attic, that she had always been forbidden to do. But she only went into the attic to find some old photographs for an A-level project, she finds something in the attic that instantly tells her that her mother is not dead like her father had told her. I totally had full sympathy for Saffron and I was pleased that in a rage she phoned her father. After all an explanation of the truth is deserved. Upset with what she see in the attic what will Saffron do next ? And how will her dad explain what really happened to her mother. Phyllida Shrimpton is a fabulous writer and I'm very happy to strongly recommend The Sunflowers in February and The Colour Of Shadows.
Want to read
January 14, 2019I read a sneak peek with the first few chapters on Readers First and oh man, my heart is already hurting. The start is incredible and giving me so many feels.
Straight up I love the relationship between Saffy and Tom, the easy teasing of close friends even after years apart. I feel like this book will absolutely make me cry.
The writing style is beautiful, and I know I need more. Absolutely going to pre-order this!
Straight up I love the relationship between Saffy and Tom, the easy teasing of close friends even after years apart. I feel like this book will absolutely make me cry.
The writing style is beautiful, and I know I need more. Absolutely going to pre-order this!
February 3, 2019
Conflicting messages in a wildly unrealistic YA drama on homelessness.
Phyllida Shrimpton’s ambitious second young adult novel is a snapshot into the life of materialistic and hot-headed seventeen-year-old, Saffron Hayes, stumbling upon a hitherto unknown secret from her past and descending into turmoil. When an A-Level project leads Saffron to learn that her birth mother is not in actual fact dead as her father, Edward, has always led her to believe, it challenges every significant memory of her family life. She is launched into a world of anger and hurt as it shakes up the stable family life in the Hayes household with a generous father, a much denigrated stepmother, Melanie, two brothers and a younger stepsister all caught in the crossfire. The knowledge that her father has manipulated her whole world for what she believes are entirely selfish reasons and a chance to replace her mother with a younger and prettier second version in Melanie leaves Saffron seething. Too impetuous and stubborn to even give her father an opportunity to explain the circumstances and further incensed by her thirteen-year-old brother’s indifferent reaction, she storms off in a fit of pique.
Expecting salvation in the shape of her best friend, nineteen-year-old Tom, it also brings to a head the chemistry that they share. Two years her senior, Tom, entered Saffron’s life when she was just a stroppy seven-year-old in the local park and his diametrically opposed background and life on a council estate have left him achingly aware of Saffron’s advantageous life and her easy come, easy go attitude towards everything from possessions to her generous allowance and a home full of convenience. But when Tom refuses to allow Saffron to sofa surf at his flat it leads her to discover her inability to book accommodation in a hotel room, night shelter or youth hostel as an unaccompanied seventeen-year-old. After ending up sleeping rough under a covered bridge she is given an insight into everything from soup kitchens to nightclub turning out time as a homeless person. From the inability to register for benefits without an fixed address and other practical issues, Phyllida Shrimpton’s story goes on to pose more significant questions (does adversity have to make you ammoral?, does a roof over head make you a better person?) and also attempts to shed a light on the challenges that the homeless face re-entering mainstream society.
The narrative is split between Saffron and nineteen-year-old, Tom, with both speaking directly to the reader in the first-person and alongside Tom’s emotional maturity and understanding, naive Saffron makes for an unedifying contrast with her attitude and hideously affected rants. I doubt there can be many seventeen-year-olds with such an unrealistic idea of what homelessness entails and as a consequence, Saffron’s narrative borders on talking down to its target audience. From thinking she is open-minded and aware of the realities of life the use of derogatory terms and casual slights (such as “looney tunes”, “apple destined for the fruit pot”) throughout Saffron’s narrative proves disappointing. Added to this is Saffron’s own reason for fleeing her home and putting her story on a par with the vulnerable, abused and hideously unlucky legions that take to a life on the street does not sit well. The story is largely seen through rose-tinted spectacles which highlight the generosity of fellow homeless people and incidents including a lucky escape from a potential paedophile are given a naively positive spin.
Whilst the plot is fast-moving, covers an admirably ambitious scope and will certainly give much food for thought, the meaningful life lessons are writ large and far from subtle. The punchy narrative with moments of humour does make for easy reading, however Saffron’s point of view dominates the plot and the pity is that the mature and memorable characters of Tom and teenage brother, Daniel, are not given more airtime. Very little insight is given into the attempts by her father to present his own case and illuminate spiky Saffron to the other side of the story and the battle to keep his family together. Sadly I was not entirely convinced that much character development of protagonist Saffron actually took place and I doubted whether the experience taught her a meaningful lesson in just how fortunate she is. With a slightly more winsome protagonist and a more understated tone Phyllida Shrimpton’s novel would have had all the ingredients to be a must read education lesson for many teens, but as it is it stands it feels like a missed opportunity and left me with decidedly mixed feelings.
With thanks to Readers First who provided me with a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Phyllida Shrimpton’s ambitious second young adult novel is a snapshot into the life of materialistic and hot-headed seventeen-year-old, Saffron Hayes, stumbling upon a hitherto unknown secret from her past and descending into turmoil. When an A-Level project leads Saffron to learn that her birth mother is not in actual fact dead as her father, Edward, has always led her to believe, it challenges every significant memory of her family life. She is launched into a world of anger and hurt as it shakes up the stable family life in the Hayes household with a generous father, a much denigrated stepmother, Melanie, two brothers and a younger stepsister all caught in the crossfire. The knowledge that her father has manipulated her whole world for what she believes are entirely selfish reasons and a chance to replace her mother with a younger and prettier second version in Melanie leaves Saffron seething. Too impetuous and stubborn to even give her father an opportunity to explain the circumstances and further incensed by her thirteen-year-old brother’s indifferent reaction, she storms off in a fit of pique.
Expecting salvation in the shape of her best friend, nineteen-year-old Tom, it also brings to a head the chemistry that they share. Two years her senior, Tom, entered Saffron’s life when she was just a stroppy seven-year-old in the local park and his diametrically opposed background and life on a council estate have left him achingly aware of Saffron’s advantageous life and her easy come, easy go attitude towards everything from possessions to her generous allowance and a home full of convenience. But when Tom refuses to allow Saffron to sofa surf at his flat it leads her to discover her inability to book accommodation in a hotel room, night shelter or youth hostel as an unaccompanied seventeen-year-old. After ending up sleeping rough under a covered bridge she is given an insight into everything from soup kitchens to nightclub turning out time as a homeless person. From the inability to register for benefits without an fixed address and other practical issues, Phyllida Shrimpton’s story goes on to pose more significant questions (does adversity have to make you ammoral?, does a roof over head make you a better person?) and also attempts to shed a light on the challenges that the homeless face re-entering mainstream society.
The narrative is split between Saffron and nineteen-year-old, Tom, with both speaking directly to the reader in the first-person and alongside Tom’s emotional maturity and understanding, naive Saffron makes for an unedifying contrast with her attitude and hideously affected rants. I doubt there can be many seventeen-year-olds with such an unrealistic idea of what homelessness entails and as a consequence, Saffron’s narrative borders on talking down to its target audience. From thinking she is open-minded and aware of the realities of life the use of derogatory terms and casual slights (such as “looney tunes”, “apple destined for the fruit pot”) throughout Saffron’s narrative proves disappointing. Added to this is Saffron’s own reason for fleeing her home and putting her story on a par with the vulnerable, abused and hideously unlucky legions that take to a life on the street does not sit well. The story is largely seen through rose-tinted spectacles which highlight the generosity of fellow homeless people and incidents including a lucky escape from a potential paedophile are given a naively positive spin.
Whilst the plot is fast-moving, covers an admirably ambitious scope and will certainly give much food for thought, the meaningful life lessons are writ large and far from subtle. The punchy narrative with moments of humour does make for easy reading, however Saffron’s point of view dominates the plot and the pity is that the mature and memorable characters of Tom and teenage brother, Daniel, are not given more airtime. Very little insight is given into the attempts by her father to present his own case and illuminate spiky Saffron to the other side of the story and the battle to keep his family together. Sadly I was not entirely convinced that much character development of protagonist Saffron actually took place and I doubted whether the experience taught her a meaningful lesson in just how fortunate she is. With a slightly more winsome protagonist and a more understated tone Phyllida Shrimpton’s novel would have had all the ingredients to be a must read education lesson for many teens, but as it is it stands it feels like a missed opportunity and left me with decidedly mixed feelings.
With thanks to Readers First who provided me with a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
May 6, 2019
This book was such a disappointment, I wasn't familiar with the author but I had heard of her first novel Sunflowers in February, I hadn't seen any reviews for it before reading her most recent book. I started reading this novel, completely unaware of its themes or topics.
This novel tries to discuss teen homelessness, a very real and heartbreaking modern issue, but the execution of the plot was horrendous.
I was tempted to not finish this novel as the main character, Saffron was a naive and spoilt teenager who lacked any empathy, she relied on others to save her at all times and has no sense of real life.
Saffron's mother disappeared when she was seven, but the mission to find her is forgotten amongst Saffron's disgust of living amongst the homeless. I thought Saffron would be awakened to the reality of life but even halfway through the story she admits she can't wait to be away from the homeless and forget about them! She showed zero compassion.
A very disappointing book that could have been a positive influence on the awareness of homelessness.
This novel tries to discuss teen homelessness, a very real and heartbreaking modern issue, but the execution of the plot was horrendous.
I was tempted to not finish this novel as the main character, Saffron was a naive and spoilt teenager who lacked any empathy, she relied on others to save her at all times and has no sense of real life.
Saffron's mother disappeared when she was seven, but the mission to find her is forgotten amongst Saffron's disgust of living amongst the homeless. I thought Saffron would be awakened to the reality of life but even halfway through the story she admits she can't wait to be away from the homeless and forget about them! She showed zero compassion.
A very disappointing book that could have been a positive influence on the awareness of homelessness.
February 15, 2019
"If I was a wild animal, I would be a bird and fly away"
"Homeless people are nothing more than the shadows of real people"
"However bad we think our life is, theres always something good there if we look hard enough for it"
Saffron is a teenager that has been through more than most in her short life. It is about to become worse for her. Saffron stumbles across a hidden secret about her mother that her father has kept from her for 10 years. Saffron's mother is not dead. Angry at the deceit of her father, Saffron leaves home. Homeless and vulnerable, The Colour of Shadows follows Saffron's journey through her mental health issues and her new found homeless situation.
I was lucky enough to be given this book through readers first, thank you Hot Key Books! This is not my normal type of read however it was such a nice change. I thoroughly enjoyed this book it was such an important read and feel like it sends key messages to its audience, especially those of a younger generation. I actually devoured this book in one sitting, I could not put it down. It certainly explores key themes including homelessness, family, friendship, drugs and mental health. My favourite part of the book was the emphasis on the safety of young people, and how the decisions that they make can actually put them into a lot of danger. It really opened my eyes to the big wide world with all the monsters than can lie within it. I also think that the author did a very good job with exploring how Saffron feels at the different stages within this book. Saffron was a very erratic character and she could be very frustrating at times however the author managed to reason with why she was acting the way that she was and it helped you to understand and sympathise with the character.
The part of the book that is very much worth mentioning is when we meet all the different homeless people that Saffron has met along her journey. We hear their individual story in turn and find that there are many circumstances that can lead to homelessness and that there is not just one set reason. We also discover that the use of drugs in this community is prevalent just to get by and deal with their everyday life. The book in no way glamourises the use of drugs it actually deters and we hear the characters discussing that they wouldn't take drugs and they would get the help if they were able to do so.
I do feel like parts of this book was very dramatic and farfetched however it could happen, and I think it is important that somebody is bringing it to our attention with solutions on how to cope and how to stay safe. I also didn't like Saffron as a character very much however I did end up sympathising with her and feel like her character wasn't meant to be a likeable one in its entirety. I feel like the story behind her mother not being deceased was forgotten about through a lot of this book and actually instead of being the main plot it was in fact only a side plot. Despite this I feel like the experiences that Saffron faced were actually more important than the plot and I feel like it was done very well.
I could talk about this book all day, it pleasantly surprised me and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I think that every teenager/young adult should read this as well as older generations so that they can get an insight into these current and very prevalent themes within society. I will definitely be reading more books from Phyllida Shrimpton.
"Homeless people are nothing more than the shadows of real people"
"However bad we think our life is, theres always something good there if we look hard enough for it"
Saffron is a teenager that has been through more than most in her short life. It is about to become worse for her. Saffron stumbles across a hidden secret about her mother that her father has kept from her for 10 years. Saffron's mother is not dead. Angry at the deceit of her father, Saffron leaves home. Homeless and vulnerable, The Colour of Shadows follows Saffron's journey through her mental health issues and her new found homeless situation.
I was lucky enough to be given this book through readers first, thank you Hot Key Books! This is not my normal type of read however it was such a nice change. I thoroughly enjoyed this book it was such an important read and feel like it sends key messages to its audience, especially those of a younger generation. I actually devoured this book in one sitting, I could not put it down. It certainly explores key themes including homelessness, family, friendship, drugs and mental health. My favourite part of the book was the emphasis on the safety of young people, and how the decisions that they make can actually put them into a lot of danger. It really opened my eyes to the big wide world with all the monsters than can lie within it. I also think that the author did a very good job with exploring how Saffron feels at the different stages within this book. Saffron was a very erratic character and she could be very frustrating at times however the author managed to reason with why she was acting the way that she was and it helped you to understand and sympathise with the character.
The part of the book that is very much worth mentioning is when we meet all the different homeless people that Saffron has met along her journey. We hear their individual story in turn and find that there are many circumstances that can lead to homelessness and that there is not just one set reason. We also discover that the use of drugs in this community is prevalent just to get by and deal with their everyday life. The book in no way glamourises the use of drugs it actually deters and we hear the characters discussing that they wouldn't take drugs and they would get the help if they were able to do so.
I do feel like parts of this book was very dramatic and farfetched however it could happen, and I think it is important that somebody is bringing it to our attention with solutions on how to cope and how to stay safe. I also didn't like Saffron as a character very much however I did end up sympathising with her and feel like her character wasn't meant to be a likeable one in its entirety. I feel like the story behind her mother not being deceased was forgotten about through a lot of this book and actually instead of being the main plot it was in fact only a side plot. Despite this I feel like the experiences that Saffron faced were actually more important than the plot and I feel like it was done very well.
I could talk about this book all day, it pleasantly surprised me and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I think that every teenager/young adult should read this as well as older generations so that they can get an insight into these current and very prevalent themes within society. I will definitely be reading more books from Phyllida Shrimpton.
January 15, 2019
Meet Saffron (Saffy): spoilt, materialistic and self-centred. After uncovering a hidden secret about her mother, who disappeared 10 years ago, she packs her luxury items and runs away from the home she shares with her dad and “step bitch witch” Melanie. Realising she has nowhere to go, Saffy is forced to spend her nights with the town’s homeless community under a bridge. Can she survive without getting herself into further trouble?
The Colour of Shadows pleasantly surprised me the further I read. At first, I couldn’t take to Saffy as, despite being 17, she acted like a petulant child and it frustrated me. However I soon realised that this is a deliberate technique from the author in order to show the growth of Saffy throughout the book.
The story is also told through the eyes of Tom, Saffy’s friend, and I really loved him. His underprivileged upbringing has made him grounded, hard-working and extremely kind - everything that Saffy is not.
What I found most thought-provoking was the issue of homelessness itself. At one point Saffy finds out that the people under the bridge were once ‘real people’ - a soldier, a university student, a businessman - and a brief change in circumstances, beyond their control, caused them to lose everything. The message that homeless people are still people and have feelings resonate throughout.
This is a well-written book with powerful themes and messages throughout, aided by strong, likeable characters.
The Colour of Shadows pleasantly surprised me the further I read. At first, I couldn’t take to Saffy as, despite being 17, she acted like a petulant child and it frustrated me. However I soon realised that this is a deliberate technique from the author in order to show the growth of Saffy throughout the book.
The story is also told through the eyes of Tom, Saffy’s friend, and I really loved him. His underprivileged upbringing has made him grounded, hard-working and extremely kind - everything that Saffy is not.
What I found most thought-provoking was the issue of homelessness itself. At one point Saffy finds out that the people under the bridge were once ‘real people’ - a soldier, a university student, a businessman - and a brief change in circumstances, beyond their control, caused them to lose everything. The message that homeless people are still people and have feelings resonate throughout.
This is a well-written book with powerful themes and messages throughout, aided by strong, likeable characters.
February 10, 2019
Right from the start I loved this book. saffron and Tom were such different characters, but their friendship was amazing. Even though they were in and out of eachothers lives nothing seemed to change.
I’m not going to lie, saffron’s character was a bit hit and miss for me, at the start I thought she was just a spoilt child who had thrown her toys out of the pram because she didn’t get her own way, but as the book went on you saw different sides to her character. I felt so many different emotions for her in various stages of the story. I felt sorry for her in some places, whilst thinking she was naive or feeling sorry for her and scared for her safety in others, I absolutely loved the development of her character.
Tom, what an absolute undercover hero, someone who seemed standoffish but went out of his way to help everyone else.
I adored this book, even though in places it was a little close to home.
I’m actually a little sad that I’ve read it, because I know this is going to become a favourite and you can never get the feeling of finishing a new favourite book for the first time again!
I’m not going to lie, saffron’s character was a bit hit and miss for me, at the start I thought she was just a spoilt child who had thrown her toys out of the pram because she didn’t get her own way, but as the book went on you saw different sides to her character. I felt so many different emotions for her in various stages of the story. I felt sorry for her in some places, whilst thinking she was naive or feeling sorry for her and scared for her safety in others, I absolutely loved the development of her character.
Tom, what an absolute undercover hero, someone who seemed standoffish but went out of his way to help everyone else.
I adored this book, even though in places it was a little close to home.
I’m actually a little sad that I’ve read it, because I know this is going to become a favourite and you can never get the feeling of finishing a new favourite book for the first time again!
January 27, 2019
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book and I love it when that happens. It allows the authors words to freely flow taking me somewhere completely unexpected.
Exactly that happened as I digested each page of The Colour of Shadows.
The book follows two main characters, Saffron (the person this book is actually centred on) and her friend Tom.
We meet a collection of people who impact the lives of Saffron and Tom in ways that make us as a reader reflect on our own perceptions of our lives and the people who impact on us.
Saffron exposes a secret that her father has been keeping. She takes it upon her 17year old self to run away and find answers when they aren’t given simply.
Believing a life on the streets while she tries to conquer her quest is better than the life of luxury she has at home, Saffron mingles with the homeless learning things aren’t always what they appear to be.
For one I know I won’t look at a homeless person the same way again. It is easy to judge on appearance but we must remember that to every person there is a story that we don’t know.
Exactly that happened as I digested each page of The Colour of Shadows.
The book follows two main characters, Saffron (the person this book is actually centred on) and her friend Tom.
We meet a collection of people who impact the lives of Saffron and Tom in ways that make us as a reader reflect on our own perceptions of our lives and the people who impact on us.
Saffron exposes a secret that her father has been keeping. She takes it upon her 17year old self to run away and find answers when they aren’t given simply.
Believing a life on the streets while she tries to conquer her quest is better than the life of luxury she has at home, Saffron mingles with the homeless learning things aren’t always what they appear to be.
For one I know I won’t look at a homeless person the same way again. It is easy to judge on appearance but we must remember that to every person there is a story that we don’t know.
January 30, 2019
Saffron believes that her Mother is dead. During a search of the loft, for a college project, she discovers a secret briefcase in which her Dad has hidden evidence that proves she is still alive.
The book covers the course of her week. The disbelief at the web of lies, long held resentment of her step-mother and when she decides to run away from home all her friends seem to have deserted her. This includes best friend (and former crush) Tom. He says she can't stay at his flat, the reason not being too clear but he's obviously hiding a secret of his own.
Saffron ends up on the streets for a couple of nights where her eyes are well and truly opened - things are tough beyond her gilded cage.
I love the way that this book shows how the homeless are often there due to circumstances beyond their control. It also explores all the layers of blended families and how resentments can linger. Sometimes it takes a real shock to the system though to realise what true love is (and to open yourself up to it!).
An absolute cracker of a read for young and old adults alike.
The book covers the course of her week. The disbelief at the web of lies, long held resentment of her step-mother and when she decides to run away from home all her friends seem to have deserted her. This includes best friend (and former crush) Tom. He says she can't stay at his flat, the reason not being too clear but he's obviously hiding a secret of his own.
Saffron ends up on the streets for a couple of nights where her eyes are well and truly opened - things are tough beyond her gilded cage.
I love the way that this book shows how the homeless are often there due to circumstances beyond their control. It also explores all the layers of blended families and how resentments can linger. Sometimes it takes a real shock to the system though to realise what true love is (and to open yourself up to it!).
An absolute cracker of a read for young and old adults alike.
June 26, 2022
This book came from my YA ABOS box and what a story this was. Going into this one, I wasn't entirely sold on the main character to start with; she presented as being spoiled, self centred and intensely naive but over the course of the week in which the book takes place, she does grow into a deeply thoughtful young lady. Reading the blurb, I didn't realise that this would be told from two different povs - something I think works really well with the nature of the story. I loved that the friendship between Saffron and Tom felt very realistic too. What I loved most about this novel was the writing, the author showcased the range of her writing in so many ways; Saffron and Tom felt like they were written by two different authors and did not feel one-dimensional in slightest, but what I was particularly impressed with was the distinct feeling that the writing style grew more mature the further the story went. The subject matter of this story felt well researched, as evidenced by the acknowledgements at the back. I really enjoyed this one!
February 7, 2019
I loved this book so much more than I expected to. Honestly, Saffron as a character, is very easy to not like, however, I think a lot of her thoughts and actions are justified due to the situations she's in and almost makes her a more realistic character. I love how it's set over the course of a week and switches between the perspectives of both Saffron and Tom. Tom is such a lovable character and the way Shrimpton has written as him, how he becomes more open with his thoughts to himself through the novel mirrors his relationship with Saffron. It's so very rare to find a book that shines a light on being homeless and how people are homeless for many different reasons and I hope this novel will help reduce stigma and start a conversation. I'm definitely keeping this book on my shelves for future reading.
Although this book was gifted to me by the publisher through reader's first, all thoughts and opinions are my own and I would like to thank them for the copy of this wonderful novel.
Although this book was gifted to me by the publisher through reader's first, all thoughts and opinions are my own and I would like to thank them for the copy of this wonderful novel.
February 23, 2019
I devoured this book in 2 days. A Really easy enjoyable read.
I have to say, I wasn't the biggest fan of the main character, Saffron. Through most of the story I was annoyed at her for being such a spoilt brat, but I did like the idea of her bettering herself and reducing her brattiness through her experiences on the streets.
I loved Tom from start to finish, hard working, hidden secrets, kind and trustworthy. He could do so much better than Saffron.
Maggie was an absolute gem! Opened my eyes to how homeless people can live, and the other side of homelessness that doesn't involve addiction and crime.
The book was an easy read and I enjoyed following Saffron's journey to finding her mother, something which she believed would solve all her problems. I was disappointed that the story ended where it did, and if love for there to be a sequel to find out what became of Angela, the family, and Tom and Saffron after.
February 13, 2019
I have very much enjoyed reading this book. It is about a privileged girl who has everything she could want, but what she really wants is her mother who she was told had died when she was a young girl, a discovery made by Saffy turns her whole world upside down. Saffys friend Tom tries to help Saffy see sense when she leaves home but all Saffy can see is that everyone is against her. While Saffy is busy shouting about all her problems, Tom is quietly getting on with his.
I really love how this book has given insight into the many, many homeless people forced to live on the streets, the life stories and situations which people have to tell about how they ended up living the life they do could be any one of us, it only takes one event for our lives to change.
I would thoroughly recommend this book for both adults and teenagers alike, a very good read!
I really love how this book has given insight into the many, many homeless people forced to live on the streets, the life stories and situations which people have to tell about how they ended up living the life they do could be any one of us, it only takes one event for our lives to change.
I would thoroughly recommend this book for both adults and teenagers alike, a very good read!
February 5, 2019
An amazing , thought provoking book , both funny and sad . Seventeen year old Saffron discovers that her father has lied about what happened to her mother ten years ago . She is hurt and bitter , particularly with her father . She packs a big bag and leaves home , fully expecting best friend Tom will put her up . Unfortunately he can't and Saffron finds herself sleeping under the bridge with the other homeless . Over night he bag is stolen , now she has entered the dark , shadowy world of the unwanted . Life is hard . Some people are wise , kine and helpful . Others are not . Saffron will need to know who can be trusted . Will Tom come to the rescue ? He has his own problems to face . Can the shadows surrounding them ever become lighter ?
July 27, 2024
Fabulous perception of a branch of society I never understood why they were where they were. Thank you for opening my eyes. I love the way Phyllida tells her stories and look forward to reading lots more of her books.
January 25, 2019
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for granting access to this, though I didn’t find it as gripping as I’d hoped I would.
Saffron is seventeen, a bit of a loner and used to living in her head. She has never really got over her mum leaving the family, and clearly resents the woman who’s taken her place.
We find Saffron in a huge argument with her father once she learns the story she’s been told over the years isn’t quite the truth. She runs away and spends a week living under a bridge with other homeless people.
Honestly, the main thread of the story was unrealistic. However misguided, I find it hard to believe that Saffron would have acted in this way and that her family would have acted as they did. Her situation only served to highlight how spoiled she was.
Saffron’s evident lack of awareness of her privileged position was highlighted by her relationship with Tom, who was a childhood friend who hangs around on the periphery of her experience then swoops in to save the day.
There were some moments that reminded me of how much I’d loved Sunflowers in February (where the focus is on colour or concepts) but a lot of it felt rather forced.
Saffron is seventeen, a bit of a loner and used to living in her head. She has never really got over her mum leaving the family, and clearly resents the woman who’s taken her place.
We find Saffron in a huge argument with her father once she learns the story she’s been told over the years isn’t quite the truth. She runs away and spends a week living under a bridge with other homeless people.
Honestly, the main thread of the story was unrealistic. However misguided, I find it hard to believe that Saffron would have acted in this way and that her family would have acted as they did. Her situation only served to highlight how spoiled she was.
Saffron’s evident lack of awareness of her privileged position was highlighted by her relationship with Tom, who was a childhood friend who hangs around on the periphery of her experience then swoops in to save the day.
There were some moments that reminded me of how much I’d loved Sunflowers in February (where the focus is on colour or concepts) but a lot of it felt rather forced.
February 27, 2019
When seventeen year old Saffron finds a briefcase in the attic, the contents change her life drastically. She discovers how her father has been lying to her for 10 years about her mother and the knowledge of this lie causes their family life to spiral.
I found Saffron, as a character, quite hard to like but at the same time, you can understand why she reacted the way she did. After believing something for so long it’s hard to find out that there was no truth in it, but sometimes the truth is a lot harder to bear than a lie told with good intentions.
I feel like this book did a good job of showing homelessness, how it can happen through a multitude of different situations and how these people are unjustly judged for being homeless and how vulnerable they can be.
This is especially the case when Saffron gets groomed, this man making her question her family and friends and how they don’t really care about her but he does and he’ll look after her.
One of the best things about this book was Saffron’s friend Tom. Although it was Saffron’s story, Tom played a massive role in it and without him, she would have ended up in a very difficult situation.
This book was a quick read, the writing easy to get into and overall it was okay.
I found Saffron, as a character, quite hard to like but at the same time, you can understand why she reacted the way she did. After believing something for so long it’s hard to find out that there was no truth in it, but sometimes the truth is a lot harder to bear than a lie told with good intentions.
I feel like this book did a good job of showing homelessness, how it can happen through a multitude of different situations and how these people are unjustly judged for being homeless and how vulnerable they can be.
This is especially the case when Saffron gets groomed, this man making her question her family and friends and how they don’t really care about her but he does and he’ll look after her.
One of the best things about this book was Saffron’s friend Tom. Although it was Saffron’s story, Tom played a massive role in it and without him, she would have ended up in a very difficult situation.
This book was a quick read, the writing easy to get into and overall it was okay.
January 18, 2019
Thanks to Bonnier Zaffre and NetGalley for providing me with an Advance Review Copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about Saffron, a 17-year-old girl who discovers a big secret, the secret being that her ‘dead’ mother is not dead after all. The book is written from two different viewpoints, that of Saffron and her best friend Tom. Saffron is from a wealthy background and we can infer Tom is from a poorer background although this isn’t really explored.
From the outset I found it incredibly unrealistic that a father would lie to three of his children about their mother being dead. For what purpose? I guess it could, and maybe does happen but Saffron’s bratty and immature reaction to finding out the truth wasn’t very credible to me coming from a supposed 17-year-old. The behaviour and motivation of various characters was also suspect to me e.g. Tom being quite frankly rude and disengaged when Saffron tells him about her mother, Saffron’s brothers were also completely disinterested when they find out their mother is alive and their unconcerned reaction to leaving Saffron with a potential predator was just weird.
The ‘mystery’ is dragged out through a series of interminable answerphone messages from her dad and Saffron ignores pretty much all opportunities to find out more about what happened to her mother and where she might be. Is this really how people behave? I just wasn’t buying it. The characters were almost all unlikeable and Saffron in particular acted like a spoilt diva for most of the novel.
The novel tries to tackle some serious issues such as homelessness, broken families, drugs and alcohol but doesn’t manage it in a very sympathetic way, particularly the depiction of homeless people.
My main issue with the novel was the writing style. There was a constant barrage of analogies, similes and metaphors. Additionally, there were some quite frankly bizarre turns of phrase e.g.
“I saw her lean against a wall, then slide to the ground like a sack of the proverbial” - (A sack of the proverbial what?)
"I stirred my drink angrily through the pile of cream on my mug, watching it disappear until was confident I could take little sips without the same facial fiasco Tom had used."
"I could still remember how the walls of my room had closed around me as he sat on my bed and told me the evasive words I tried to hold on to and make sense of"
"A silence fell between us, like midnight snow heavy with the gathered pollution of a rotten thought"
"I silently and profusely thanked my own eyelids"
I just couldn’t get into this one. I disliked the characters; the main plotline was unbelievable and the writing style just jarred with me. Thanks for providing me the opportunity to review it but it wasn’t for me.
This book is about Saffron, a 17-year-old girl who discovers a big secret, the secret being that her ‘dead’ mother is not dead after all. The book is written from two different viewpoints, that of Saffron and her best friend Tom. Saffron is from a wealthy background and we can infer Tom is from a poorer background although this isn’t really explored.
From the outset I found it incredibly unrealistic that a father would lie to three of his children about their mother being dead. For what purpose? I guess it could, and maybe does happen but Saffron’s bratty and immature reaction to finding out the truth wasn’t very credible to me coming from a supposed 17-year-old. The behaviour and motivation of various characters was also suspect to me e.g. Tom being quite frankly rude and disengaged when Saffron tells him about her mother, Saffron’s brothers were also completely disinterested when they find out their mother is alive and their unconcerned reaction to leaving Saffron with a potential predator was just weird.
The ‘mystery’ is dragged out through a series of interminable answerphone messages from her dad and Saffron ignores pretty much all opportunities to find out more about what happened to her mother and where she might be. Is this really how people behave? I just wasn’t buying it. The characters were almost all unlikeable and Saffron in particular acted like a spoilt diva for most of the novel.
The novel tries to tackle some serious issues such as homelessness, broken families, drugs and alcohol but doesn’t manage it in a very sympathetic way, particularly the depiction of homeless people.
My main issue with the novel was the writing style. There was a constant barrage of analogies, similes and metaphors. Additionally, there were some quite frankly bizarre turns of phrase e.g.
“I saw her lean against a wall, then slide to the ground like a sack of the proverbial” - (A sack of the proverbial what?)
"I stirred my drink angrily through the pile of cream on my mug, watching it disappear until was confident I could take little sips without the same facial fiasco Tom had used."
"I could still remember how the walls of my room had closed around me as he sat on my bed and told me the evasive words I tried to hold on to and make sense of"
"A silence fell between us, like midnight snow heavy with the gathered pollution of a rotten thought"
"I silently and profusely thanked my own eyelids"
I just couldn’t get into this one. I disliked the characters; the main plotline was unbelievable and the writing style just jarred with me. Thanks for providing me the opportunity to review it but it wasn’t for me.
February 14, 2019
“Some might describe it as a journey, but as far as I was concerned it was way more than that. This was an odyssey!”
May I start by saying I adored this little gem of a book. I don’t know if is was the gorgeous cover; and the cover suits the book perfectly. It could have been my first peek at the blurb or even the first sentence that hooked me; but let me tell you, once the book got its roots planted in my mind, not only did it start to grow but it blossomed. I did not dare to put the book down in case I missed a crucial part of Saffron and Tom’s tale.
I think I’ve found a new favourite for the shelf with this little refreshing coming-of-age tale. It pulled so many heart strings and conquers a lot of issues present within society today. Plus; a feisty little red-head on a rebellion streak took me back to my youth, though my tale didn’t go as crazy. It took me back to my days of skinny jeans and converse (though they are still my go-to), and regularly crashing at my nan’s, to escape the reality of home. The book knows exactly how to pull you in and drag you through the deep.
“But my wings were just arms, and her wings were just copper curls, tamed and contorted into submission…”
The book is about two teenagers from two completely different backgrounds who found each other at the worst time of their childhood. They are best friends that have flitted in and out of each other’s lives. But they have always been a constant shadow to each other’s story.
First of all, we have Saffron; a feisty red-head living the perfect life with the perfect family, or at least it appears that way. She is a girl who has created a character for herself and believes her mother to be dead. The book starts with her discovering it was all a lie and her whole world crashing down. She then journeys a road of self-discovery, beginning to realise how tough and harsh the world can be.
The second main character is Tom, a council estate teen that we don’t actually know much about to start with. What we do know is he cares for Saffron and he has a heart of gold. As the story unwinds, more comes to life with Tom and the mask begins to crack.
Both characters are the opposite of one another and creates a stark contrast between the two personalities. The two of them together make an addicting read. Saffron on her own can come across as a spoilt brat at times, but the element of Tom shows heart and a reality she wouldn’t have dared to show us on her own. I came to love both characters. I am certain you will too.
“…I had also made one for Maggie. I wanted her to have a house so bad that I drew one…”
The book itself highlights so many important issues present in society today and brings them out from the shadows. As well as Saffron’s home issues, the book shines a spotlight onto the increasing number of people who are rough sleeping. The problems we walk past every day on the street. Most importantly, the reasons why. The book humanises them instead of just writing another statistic. It shows the problems they have to deal with in their day to day life and bring to life the people who are willing to take advantage of them. The people who choose to see nothing but shadows.
The book is a real eye opener. It is not just a story of a seventeen-year-old girl growing up. It is a story about community. About love and discovery. It is about a teenager waking up from a world she had originally created and her best friend finally lowering the barricades.
This little novel is about family, friendship and lies. Three things that can easily go hand in hand. It is a refreshing read. Prepare to be taken on an odyssey of discovery. This little contemporary fiction novel is perfect accompaniment to an afternoon cup of tea.
May I start by saying I adored this little gem of a book. I don’t know if is was the gorgeous cover; and the cover suits the book perfectly. It could have been my first peek at the blurb or even the first sentence that hooked me; but let me tell you, once the book got its roots planted in my mind, not only did it start to grow but it blossomed. I did not dare to put the book down in case I missed a crucial part of Saffron and Tom’s tale.
I think I’ve found a new favourite for the shelf with this little refreshing coming-of-age tale. It pulled so many heart strings and conquers a lot of issues present within society today. Plus; a feisty little red-head on a rebellion streak took me back to my youth, though my tale didn’t go as crazy. It took me back to my days of skinny jeans and converse (though they are still my go-to), and regularly crashing at my nan’s, to escape the reality of home. The book knows exactly how to pull you in and drag you through the deep.
“But my wings were just arms, and her wings were just copper curls, tamed and contorted into submission…”
The book is about two teenagers from two completely different backgrounds who found each other at the worst time of their childhood. They are best friends that have flitted in and out of each other’s lives. But they have always been a constant shadow to each other’s story.
First of all, we have Saffron; a feisty red-head living the perfect life with the perfect family, or at least it appears that way. She is a girl who has created a character for herself and believes her mother to be dead. The book starts with her discovering it was all a lie and her whole world crashing down. She then journeys a road of self-discovery, beginning to realise how tough and harsh the world can be.
The second main character is Tom, a council estate teen that we don’t actually know much about to start with. What we do know is he cares for Saffron and he has a heart of gold. As the story unwinds, more comes to life with Tom and the mask begins to crack.
Both characters are the opposite of one another and creates a stark contrast between the two personalities. The two of them together make an addicting read. Saffron on her own can come across as a spoilt brat at times, but the element of Tom shows heart and a reality she wouldn’t have dared to show us on her own. I came to love both characters. I am certain you will too.
“…I had also made one for Maggie. I wanted her to have a house so bad that I drew one…”
The book itself highlights so many important issues present in society today and brings them out from the shadows. As well as Saffron’s home issues, the book shines a spotlight onto the increasing number of people who are rough sleeping. The problems we walk past every day on the street. Most importantly, the reasons why. The book humanises them instead of just writing another statistic. It shows the problems they have to deal with in their day to day life and bring to life the people who are willing to take advantage of them. The people who choose to see nothing but shadows.
The book is a real eye opener. It is not just a story of a seventeen-year-old girl growing up. It is a story about community. About love and discovery. It is about a teenager waking up from a world she had originally created and her best friend finally lowering the barricades.
This little novel is about family, friendship and lies. Three things that can easily go hand in hand. It is a refreshing read. Prepare to be taken on an odyssey of discovery. This little contemporary fiction novel is perfect accompaniment to an afternoon cup of tea.
March 28, 2019
Reading this book was a wonderful experience in many different ways.
I really liked the writing style and the short chapters made it an even quicker read.
This is a character driven novel and I really liked Saffron aka Saffy's character development throughout the novel.
She belongs to an affluent family and has three siblings including Charlotte, her step-sister, who she doesn't like because she thinks Melanie, her step-mother is the reason her biological mother is not part of their family any more.
She finds a box filled with letters her Dad never sent out to her Mom in the attic when her mom was apparently sick. Saffy was 7 years old when her father lied about her Mom being sick and later being dead.
The story progresses as Saffy unfolds the truths of what actually happened. She makes silly decisions which were really annoying but overall I am glad she became sensible by the end of the novel.
She meets pretty interesting people when she decides to leave her house due to her father's lies. She sleeps under a bridge for two nights. She lives a life for a week like she'd never imagined before.
I also adored Tom's character and his prospective. His chapters were short and I waited to view things from his point of view. He cared for Saffy even when she was getting herself into trouble all the time.
I really liked the writing style and the short chapters made it an even quicker read.
This is a character driven novel and I really liked Saffron aka Saffy's character development throughout the novel.
She belongs to an affluent family and has three siblings including Charlotte, her step-sister, who she doesn't like because she thinks Melanie, her step-mother is the reason her biological mother is not part of their family any more.
She finds a box filled with letters her Dad never sent out to her Mom in the attic when her mom was apparently sick. Saffy was 7 years old when her father lied about her Mom being sick and later being dead.
The story progresses as Saffy unfolds the truths of what actually happened. She makes silly decisions which were really annoying but overall I am glad she became sensible by the end of the novel.
She meets pretty interesting people when she decides to leave her house due to her father's lies. She sleeps under a bridge for two nights. She lives a life for a week like she'd never imagined before.
I also adored Tom's character and his prospective. His chapters were short and I waited to view things from his point of view. He cared for Saffy even when she was getting herself into trouble all the time.
January 29, 2019
A moving portrayal of a teenager coming to terms with a secret about her mother that her father decided to keep from her . . . was he right to do so? Saffron must work that out . . .
Seventeen year old Saffron discovers a secret in the attic - a secret that changes both her past and her future...
Having believed ten years ago that her mother had become ill and subsequently died, Saffron learns that her mother is in fact alive and well. Angry at the years of deceit from her father and step mother, she goes in search of the truth about her mother - and leaves home.
Homeless and alone, Saffron has to deal with the mental turmoil and anger at her father as she processes the lies she has been told. And then Saffron comes face to face with the dangers of being a homeless teenage girl . . .
I found that it was an easy read with some short chapters from the viewpoints of Saffron and Tom. There’s some strong themes throughout the book and shows the growth of the character Saffron.
I’d definitely recommend this one
February 26, 2019
I really didn't get on with this book, but it gave me a lot to think about. The issues surrounding homelessness were present through so much in this book but there's also themes of privilege and assumption included that I really want to talk about.
So one of the first problems I found with this book was that neither of the characters were really very sympathetic. Saffron was very angry throughout the book and I understand that. It's obvious how much pain she was going through. But the fact is that an abrasive character like this is really hard to like. Tom was easier to sympathise with, but I hated him so much for just dismissing Saffron's pain as "drama" and leaving her on the street because he assumes that she'll just go home.
I got into the book a bit before the end and there were some really touching moments, especially between Melanie and Saffron.
It was a book that said a lot and I wish I could have liked it more.
So one of the first problems I found with this book was that neither of the characters were really very sympathetic. Saffron was very angry throughout the book and I understand that. It's obvious how much pain she was going through. But the fact is that an abrasive character like this is really hard to like. Tom was easier to sympathise with, but I hated him so much for just dismissing Saffron's pain as "drama" and leaving her on the street because he assumes that she'll just go home.
I got into the book a bit before the end and there were some really touching moments, especially between Melanie and Saffron.
It was a book that said a lot and I wish I could have liked it more.
May 27, 2019
I loved how the author of this book swapped the chapters between Saffron and Tom and we got to see both of their stories as they entwined together. Saffron found out that her dad has been lying to her from a young age about her mum and decides she is going to leave home and find out the truth herself. During the short time she is away from home, Saffron stays on the streets with the local homeless people and finds out about how they live and the lives that they had before homelessness. During this time, Saffron gets into some trouble with a man who is not who he claimed to be but luckily Tom was there for her to help her out.
This story shows friendship, love, loss and the reality of everyday live that many of us face.
This story shows friendship, love, loss and the reality of everyday live that many of us face.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2019
This is Phyllida Shrimptons second book and I think very successful.
It tells the story of Saffron, a very indulged young lady who can only see the world in respect of herself. She lives in great comfort with her father and step mother, who she resents very much. Finding that she has been lied to for years and thus furious with her father she leaves home without thought. Unfortunately she assumes she can stay with her friend Tom but he’s unable to help her. She finds out life is not as easy as expected and reaches rock bottom before she realises what is important.
I did or expect to enjoy this book so much, but it is well written and the narrative kept me engaged. I can honestly recommend this novel to other readers.
It tells the story of Saffron, a very indulged young lady who can only see the world in respect of herself. She lives in great comfort with her father and step mother, who she resents very much. Finding that she has been lied to for years and thus furious with her father she leaves home without thought. Unfortunately she assumes she can stay with her friend Tom but he’s unable to help her. She finds out life is not as easy as expected and reaches rock bottom before she realises what is important.
I did or expect to enjoy this book so much, but it is well written and the narrative kept me engaged. I can honestly recommend this novel to other readers.
June 2, 2019
This book was cute and shed a bit of light on the dangers the homeless face daily.. Saffron, the MC, is a materialistic, sheltered teen and het Quest to find het mom forces her to see what LIFE is like for the unfortunates, oustide of her little bubble. She discovers some harde realities about life and also had her illusions about her perfect birth mom shattered.
I found it to be a cute and quick read which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I found it to be a cute and quick read which I thoroughly enjoyed.
January 29, 2019
A book that has a sweet storyline that also makes you really think about what it is like for people who live out on the streets in winter.
Saffy is a bit of a brat but she is only 17, has had a stressful few years and she does get better towards the end of the book. Tom is adorable.
Definitely worth a read.
Saffy is a bit of a brat but she is only 17, has had a stressful few years and she does get better towards the end of the book. Tom is adorable.
Definitely worth a read.
October 21, 2020
Story line great. Makes me want to never stop reading it once started. No wonder why got hardly any sleep
May 18, 2022
It was good and i liked how the characters developed over time.
February 5, 2019
A project for her A-level studies sends seventeen-year-old Saffron on a search for old family photographs – “the kind that have sepia ancestor staring across time….” The attic, a space she has always been forbidden to go into because she had been warned of the dangers of slipping between the rafters, seemed to be a good place to look. However, whilst there she discovers a leather briefcase which holds a secret which has been kept from her for ten years, a secret which means she now has to re-assess her past and consider how to face the future. She had been told by her father that her mother had died following a long illness, but it has now become clear that he had lied and that her mother is probably still alive.
For a time after her mother had disappeared Saffron had helped her father to care for her two younger brothers, Daniel who was four years younger, and Archie who was just a baby, making her feel that she almost a mother-substitute for them. Then, when her father married Melanie her brothers soon adapted to having a step-mother but Saffron never did, always feeling that this “interloper” had usurped their mother’s place. The arrival of half-sister Charlotte made her feel even more side-lined in the family, although to all outsiders the family appeared to be a loving and united one.
Full of hurt and rage at the lies she has been told, and her father’s apparent reluctance to tell her the full story of her mother’s disappearance, Saffron packs a bag and leaves home, determined to find her mother and discover the truth for herself. She assumes that her best friend Tom, who is two years older and whom she has known since she was eight, will allow her to sleep on his sofa. When he inexplicably refuses, and when she then finds out that she is too young to book into a hotel, she is too stubborn and angry to return home. However, she is about to discover that being homeless on the streets will expose her to all sorts of danger, and to situations she has no experience of dealing with.
This story takes place over the period of a week and switches between the perspectives of Saffron and Tom, enabling the reader to gain insights into their childhood bond and the changes which have come about since they reached adolescence. Although there were times when I found that I wanted to shake Saffron out of her over-indulged complacency and her apparent lack of awareness of other people’s feelings, I did manage to keep in mind that the feelings of hurt, betrayal and anger she was feeling were very real! Her initial lack of acknowledgement that her impetuous disappearance created as much hurt and turmoil for her father, her step-mother and her siblings could also be put down to her self-absorption but could equally be attributable to normal teenage angst! I found it far easier to like Tom; he lives in a council flat, has few of Saffron’s material advantages but has far greater levels of empathy. However, he too has secrets and finds it difficult to communicate his real feelings, leading to lots of misunderstandings between the pair.
Facing her protagonist with sleeping rough under a bridge, along with creating the unforgettable character of homeless, trolley-pushing Maggie, enabled the author to explore the plight of the homeless, their vulnerability to abuse (from having their possessions stolen, being beaten up and verbally abused to suffering the indignity of being pissed on by late-night revellers), the high levels of alcoholism and drug-taking, the lack of hostel accommodation, their inability, without a fixed address, to claim benefits, soup kitchens etc. She also uses the story-line to bring home to Saffron (and the reader!) that behind every homeless person is personal history which can explain their homelessness, thus conveying the message that we should never forget that the line between “us and them” can often be a very fine one. Important as these messages are, I thought that there were times when their repetition threatened to create an imbalance in the story-telling.
Although this story had some thought-provoking moments, I think it would have demonstrated a far greater psychological integrity had other members of the family been allowed to voice the impact Saffron’s actions, and apparent rejection, had on them. There were occasional glimpses of this, but these served only to remind me that I would have liked more! This book is aimed at a YA readership but, with its rather simplistic approach and language, I think would better suit young teenagers.
I found this an engaging, easy to read story but, whilst it does cover some important themes, especially the impact of long-term deceit within a family, the grooming of vulnerable young people and issues around the plight of the homeless, these are all dealt with rather superficially, so I think it would have minimal appeal for reading groups.
With thanks to Hot Key Books and Readers First for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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