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The Book of Chance
Chance is a black-and-white thinker until she realises that sometimes there are shades of grey.
Chance is in Year 7 and thinks she has it all - a loving mother, dog Tiges, best friend and almost-sister next door. But when a reality TV team makes over her house, she discovers newspaper cuttings from the past that cause her to question the world as she knows it and everyone in it. Then she finds herself caught between two realities, identities and worlds. Face-to-face with the truth, Chance has a very difficult decision to make, which almost splits her in two. This powerful story explores what is true and what is fake in today’s world. And while Chance is all about the truth, she ponders whether "Maybe being truthful was really just a big lie."
Chance is in Year 7 and thinks she has it all - a loving mother, dog Tiges, best friend and almost-sister next door. But when a reality TV team makes over her house, she discovers newspaper cuttings from the past that cause her to question the world as she knows it and everyone in it. Then she finds herself caught between two realities, identities and worlds. Face-to-face with the truth, Chance has a very difficult decision to make, which almost splits her in two. This powerful story explores what is true and what is fake in today’s world. And while Chance is all about the truth, she ponders whether "Maybe being truthful was really just a big lie."
288 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2020
20 people are currently reading
323 people want to read
About the author
Sue Whiting
53 books45 followersA former primary school teacher with a special interest in literacy education and children’s literature, Sue Whiting has worked in the publishing industry for almost twenty years, both as an author and editor of books for children and young adults.
Sue has written numerous books in a variety of genres: fiction and nonfiction, picture books through to YA, and is published in Australia and internationally. Her middle grade novel Get a Grip, Cooper Jones and nonfiction picture book, Platypus were both named CBCA Notable Books, and her picture book, A Swim in the Sea, illustrated by Meredith Thomas, was the Speech Pathologists’ 2014 Book of the Year. Her latest books include, Missing a mystery/suspense novel for readers aged 10+ and the picture book Beware the Deep Dark Forest, illustrated by Annie White.
Sue was Publishing Manager and Senior Commissioning Editor at Walker Books Australia for ten years, before leaving in 2016 to concentrate on her writing and to work from home as a publishing consultant, freelance editor, writing coach and mentor.
Sue has written numerous books in a variety of genres: fiction and nonfiction, picture books through to YA, and is published in Australia and internationally. Her middle grade novel Get a Grip, Cooper Jones and nonfiction picture book, Platypus were both named CBCA Notable Books, and her picture book, A Swim in the Sea, illustrated by Meredith Thomas, was the Speech Pathologists’ 2014 Book of the Year. Her latest books include, Missing a mystery/suspense novel for readers aged 10+ and the picture book Beware the Deep Dark Forest, illustrated by Annie White.
Sue was Publishing Manager and Senior Commissioning Editor at Walker Books Australia for ten years, before leaving in 2016 to concentrate on her writing and to work from home as a publishing consultant, freelance editor, writing coach and mentor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
April 30, 2022
Mystery, mayhem, a dog or two. What more could I ask for? No murder, sadly, but something kind of just as bad. All of it 10-12 years old friendly. Also, shortlisted for the CBCA Book of The Year Younger Readers 2021.
"I needed a dog that knew how to forge ahead and not look back."
This is a clever story about secrets and lies and what makes a lie. Is lying to protect someone ok? Does a white lie matter? Is a secret a lie of omission? What's the level of consequences a person who lies should experience? Is it ever ok to lie?
"Wondering if anyone ever told the whole truth. Maybe being truthful was really just a big lie."
Chance is a very reliable narrator and hates lies. During the book she finds out a lot of people are lying to her. Two in particular: one life changing and one online from her friend.
Chance's story starts at a police station, so you know something pretty bad has gone down. Foster care is being organised for Chance and her Mama is being questioned by police.
"I have no idea what is real and what is not anymore, so I'm probably not the best person to ask. Perhaps I should just tell them that."
The rest of the book is a countdown to that day. It’s a clever device and really ratchets up the tension. In between chapters are extracts from “The Book of Chance” which her Mama made over the years about Chance growing up. Written for Chance by her mother so they can remember her childhood. There’s also a “Book of Steve” about her father who died before she was born.
37 Days Ago starts with a reality TV show (more lies?) filmed at Chance’s house. Part of the house and yard gets a makeover to thank Chance’s mum for being a great mother, an advocate for refugees and all-round good person. Of course, this is a secret from the recipient until the big reveal.
The show researcher asks Chance for background on Chance’s Mama and “The Book of Chance” comes up and what happened to her Dad. Amos the researcher tells Chance something that starts a chain of events leading to a mystery and Chance discovering her family life is not quite what it seems.
"Things had changed in a way that no one could have ever expected - and I ached with regret."
While Chance finds out more, mostly more questions than answers, there’s a concurrent storyline about online bullying. Chance’s friend Sarah posted a lie on Instagram and when she’s found out, there’s a deluge of abuse from the girls at her school. The teachers make everyone who posted a comment attend Digital Citizenship detention at lunchtimes over a few weeks.
"How were you supposed to do all the things that you were meant to do when you were in pieces?"
Chance’s home life is falling apart and she acts out at school and during the detentions. The students are supposedly learning how to be kind online, but Chance questions everything. At one point she says if Sarah hadn’t lied, none of the this would have happened.
Both storylines deal with lies and secrets and is Social Media (and reality TV) all one big lie? The book could be used in class discussions around cyber-bullying, social media and the curated life we present online.
The families of Chance and her best friend Alek highlight diversity in family units. Both don't have a dad for different reasons. They live next door and are basically one big family, with added cousins etc when Alek's relatives visit. The Dengs are refugees from South Sudan who are now Australian citizens. Chance's mother met them years ago when newly arrived in Australia.
"It was what I had wanted for days. So why did it feel as if a thousand birds were taking flight inside my chest?"
There’s a lot going on, but none of it superfluous. Many aspects could be used in class: online life and social media, what makes a family, refugees' lives in Australia. The fast paced mystery will keep 10-12 year-olds glued to the page.
This is from my blog https://ofceilingwax.wordpress.com/20...
July 11, 2020
The Book of Chance is a tense mystery story that had me furiously turning the pages to find out how it would end. Like Sue Whiting’s previous book Missing, this is the perfect book for hooking intermediate-age readers. It would make a great read aloud with Year 7-9 as the story is suspenseful and there are some good talking points about social media.
The story starts at the end, with police showing up at Chance’s house to question her and there is talk of foster care. We don’t get the full picture though as we don’t know why the Police are involved. Chance then takes us back a month to when her ideal life starts to unravel and we count down to the events of the first chapter. Chance’s mum gets chosen for a home makeover reality show, giving her the recognition she deserves for the work she does for refugees. However, a producer on the show shows Chance a photo of her mum that could prove her life is a lie. The more Chance learns the more her life falls apart.
With its combination of family mystery, friendship issues, and relatable characters The Book of Chance is going to be a hit the Year 7/8 girls at my school. Sue Whiting is certainly an author whose future books will be must-reads for me and a must-buy for my school library.
The story starts at the end, with police showing up at Chance’s house to question her and there is talk of foster care. We don’t get the full picture though as we don’t know why the Police are involved. Chance then takes us back a month to when her ideal life starts to unravel and we count down to the events of the first chapter. Chance’s mum gets chosen for a home makeover reality show, giving her the recognition she deserves for the work she does for refugees. However, a producer on the show shows Chance a photo of her mum that could prove her life is a lie. The more Chance learns the more her life falls apart.
With its combination of family mystery, friendship issues, and relatable characters The Book of Chance is going to be a hit the Year 7/8 girls at my school. Sue Whiting is certainly an author whose future books will be must-reads for me and a must-buy for my school library.
August 8, 2021
Update - reread for readers cup question writing.
Strong writing, authentic characters, gripping mystery
Strong writing, authentic characters, gripping mystery
August 5, 2020
Another brilliant, gripping middle grade mystery by Sue Whiting. She is a master at pulling off deep emotional and ethical complexity for a young readership, and this book has that in spades. How she was going to resolve the issues had me guessing all the way to the satisfying ending, and mulling it over way beyond the finish.
May 16, 2020
When we first meet Chance she is not in a good place: she is in a police station in Wollongong being interviewed about her mother, Nadia. She is confused and frightened.
The following chapters lead us to this moment, beginning with ‘Thirty-Seven Days Ago’.
As we follow Chance’s life up to this moment, we see she is living a very happy and settled life. She loves her mama and has neighbours who are like an extended family. Her mother works with refugees, helping them integrate into their new lives. Chance and her neighbour Missa-D, who is like a second mother, apply to a reality show I Just Want to Say Thank You as a surprise for her mum. A television company will do a make-over of her house in recognition of the work she does.
During the preparation for this surprise, Chance discovers discrepancies in the story her mother has told her about her father and about her birth. Chance soon realises that her mother has secrets and she needs to know the truth, no matter what the repercussions.
As a pertinent sub-plot, Chance and her school friends find themselves in trouble for posting inappropriate comments on Instagram. Whiting uses this device to raise the very real problem of cyber-bullying, but seamlessly integrates it into the plot.
Chance finds herself in an unenviable position, questioning everything that she has held to be safe and true. She has to come to terms with some very difficult truths, that involve some hard moral decisions to be made. However, The Book of Chance is not in any way depressing and the resolution is honest and uplifting.
Whiting has created a very relatable character in Chance. Her relationships with friends and family and her beloved dog, Tiges, feel genuine and heartfelt. Readers will have no trouble empathising with Chance and her world, recognising the familiar school environment and classroom banter.
I would highly recommend this novel to readers aged 12 years and over.
Thank you to Reading Time for the opportunity to read and review this book, which was originally published on the Children's Book Council of Australia Reading Time webpage: http://readingtime.com.au/.
The following chapters lead us to this moment, beginning with ‘Thirty-Seven Days Ago’.
As we follow Chance’s life up to this moment, we see she is living a very happy and settled life. She loves her mama and has neighbours who are like an extended family. Her mother works with refugees, helping them integrate into their new lives. Chance and her neighbour Missa-D, who is like a second mother, apply to a reality show I Just Want to Say Thank You as a surprise for her mum. A television company will do a make-over of her house in recognition of the work she does.
During the preparation for this surprise, Chance discovers discrepancies in the story her mother has told her about her father and about her birth. Chance soon realises that her mother has secrets and she needs to know the truth, no matter what the repercussions.
As a pertinent sub-plot, Chance and her school friends find themselves in trouble for posting inappropriate comments on Instagram. Whiting uses this device to raise the very real problem of cyber-bullying, but seamlessly integrates it into the plot.
Chance finds herself in an unenviable position, questioning everything that she has held to be safe and true. She has to come to terms with some very difficult truths, that involve some hard moral decisions to be made. However, The Book of Chance is not in any way depressing and the resolution is honest and uplifting.
Whiting has created a very relatable character in Chance. Her relationships with friends and family and her beloved dog, Tiges, feel genuine and heartfelt. Readers will have no trouble empathising with Chance and her world, recognising the familiar school environment and classroom banter.
I would highly recommend this novel to readers aged 12 years and over.
Thank you to Reading Time for the opportunity to read and review this book, which was originally published on the Children's Book Council of Australia Reading Time webpage: http://readingtime.com.au/.
July 22, 2021
Chance is used to people coming and going in her home. Her mother works with refugees supporting them in to settle in Wollongong and learn English. Misses-D, Alex and Dut live next door and are nearly-family.
Chance and Alex want to do something special for Chance’s Mum, give her recognition for all the good work she’s done for so many people. A surprise renovation of their tired home is organised. Mum is sent to a day spa with a friend, and everyone starts emptying the house content into the garage so the reality TV show can get on with, and film, the renovation.
Chance comes across documents that startle her. Make her ask questions and seek answers. The answers get uglier and uglier.
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery suspense book aimed at tweens 10+ years. The portrayal of the deep emotion the characters experience kept me reading well into the night. A great read.
Recommended for Tweens 10+
Chance and Alex want to do something special for Chance’s Mum, give her recognition for all the good work she’s done for so many people. A surprise renovation of their tired home is organised. Mum is sent to a day spa with a friend, and everyone starts emptying the house content into the garage so the reality TV show can get on with, and film, the renovation.
Chance comes across documents that startle her. Make her ask questions and seek answers. The answers get uglier and uglier.
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery suspense book aimed at tweens 10+ years. The portrayal of the deep emotion the characters experience kept me reading well into the night. A great read.
Recommended for Tweens 10+
October 28, 2025
GUYS NO PLEASE I DID NOT LIKE THIS BOOK IT WAS NOT IMPRESSIVE THIS IS SO EMBARASSING PLEASE IGNORE THIS
3.5 stars… I think? Maybe 4? I’m not even sure. Anywayssss, it was odd I guess. I liked it in that kind of weird way of ‘ok’ I don’t even know if this makes sense but I’m trying my hardest to explain. This was a novel for school and maybe that makes my judgement sway to a bit of the worse side since it’s required to read. (I have a tendency to put my emotions about other stuff and the book I’m currently reading all together into a weird mash so yeahhh) might re-read in a few years but probably not.
I liked a lot how the title kind of worked its way into the story. At the start I thought it was literally about just chance and then I found out her name was Chance and I was like “oh cool” then the ACTUAL meaning came about and I was quite impressed, in a weird way? Not sure anymore. So yeah, 3.5 stars.
3.5 stars… I think? Maybe 4? I’m not even sure. Anywayssss, it was odd I guess. I liked it in that kind of weird way of ‘ok’ I don’t even know if this makes sense but I’m trying my hardest to explain. This was a novel for school and maybe that makes my judgement sway to a bit of the worse side since it’s required to read. (I have a tendency to put my emotions about other stuff and the book I’m currently reading all together into a weird mash so yeahhh) might re-read in a few years but probably not.
I liked a lot how the title kind of worked its way into the story. At the start I thought it was literally about just chance and then I found out her name was Chance and I was like “oh cool” then the ACTUAL meaning came about and I was quite impressed, in a weird way? Not sure anymore. So yeah, 3.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2020
This was an excellent book with believable and likeable characters, even in the midst of a crazy situation. (I would love to live next door to the Dengs!) I became really invested in Chance's situation and wondered how it was going to be resolved.
The "mystery" element became fairly obvious early on, with the mystery then being how this would be resolved. I was pleasantly surprised by the realistic ending.
I enjoyed the other elements too, comments on family, refugees and social media.
Students in my library have raved about Missing for years, and Sue Whiting was excellent when she visited our school, making any new novel of hers an automatic purchase.
The "mystery" element became fairly obvious early on, with the mystery then being how this would be resolved. I was pleasantly surprised by the realistic ending.
I enjoyed the other elements too, comments on family, refugees and social media.
Students in my library have raved about Missing for years, and Sue Whiting was excellent when she visited our school, making any new novel of hers an automatic purchase.
April 25, 2020
The Book Of Chance by Sue Whiting follows the story of Chance, a 12 year old girl who surprises her mama with a televised home makeover that becomes the catalyst for her life turning upside down.
This middle-grade read focuses on social media and the impacts it can have, the thin line that separates right and wrong and family can be who we choose.
A relatively quick read with powerful messages and a range of important themes for readers young and old.
I rate The Book Of Chance 4 stars! Thanks to Walker Books Australia for sending me a copy to review ❤️
This middle-grade read focuses on social media and the impacts it can have, the thin line that separates right and wrong and family can be who we choose.
A relatively quick read with powerful messages and a range of important themes for readers young and old.
I rate The Book Of Chance 4 stars! Thanks to Walker Books Australia for sending me a copy to review ❤️
June 4, 2020
The Book of Chance is another beautifully written, gripping and heartbreaking story, by Author Sue Whiting. Starting at the end and moving back towards the present, it draws you into Chancey's life as she uncovers the truth and the lies that underpin her very existence. It made me laugh, cry and cheer Chance and her friends on, as they grappled with growing up, peer pressure and determining how to be real. I always enjoy Sue's books and this is another one at the top of my list of current Australian middle grade stories.
April 16, 2021
My heart was in my throat from the moment Sue Whiting started the story at the end. Suspense .... understatement! This was edge of your seat, tears flowing, heart bleeding, what the hell has happened kinda stuff. From the eyes, heart and mind of the innocent child, you feel her confusion, hurt and loss throughout. Beautifully written! I felt for all the people involved, including Mama ... what a terrible terrible mess people weave through hurt and despair.
March 5, 2020
Another powerful, suspenseful middle grade read from Sue Whiting. If you loved Missing, you will loooove The Book of Chance! Immersive, believable, emotional, atmospheric - and so, so tense. Loved it.
July 1, 2021
Such a wonderful book. Sue Whiting did not disappoint. I hope it is a winner in the younger reader category of CBCA book of the year.
This book kept me engaged for the entire read.
I’m hoping the Sue writes a sequel and maybe someone makes a movie based on the book. Stage 3 students would love it!
This book kept me engaged for the entire read.
I’m hoping the Sue writes a sequel and maybe someone makes a movie based on the book. Stage 3 students would love it!
June 26, 2020
OMG! I think anyone who is deeply interested in contemporary or mystery should definitely pick up this book!!!!
July 2, 2020
A gripping story with strong characters. It was especially interesting given that it began at the end and was actually based on a true story.
June 3, 2021
Gripping, highly relatable and beautifully written, The Book of Chance explores moral dilemmas in a very approachable way for this age group. Highly recommended.
July 4, 2021
This was an outstanding book with so many twists and turns to keep you intrigued !! I would definitely recommend it and would love to read it again. ❤️
June 2, 2021
Loved this book suitable for tweens. Inspired by a true story. Chance is turning 13, she loves her life with her mum and her second family who live next door. Everything changes when Chance arranges to have a house makeover done for her mum. One of the TV crew recognises Chance’s mum from an incident 13 years ago in Perth. Things will never be the same.
July 13, 2021
Shortlisted for 2021 CBCA Book of the Year: Young Readers
Sue Whiting takes us on the emotional journey of Chance Callahan. Throughout the book, I reflected on how connections can be severed and created, as well as the many meanings of the word 'family'. The characters really bring this story to life and it is well worth reading. Suitable for upper primary and secondary students.
Sue Whiting takes us on the emotional journey of Chance Callahan. Throughout the book, I reflected on how connections can be severed and created, as well as the many meanings of the word 'family'. The characters really bring this story to life and it is well worth reading. Suitable for upper primary and secondary students.
August 1, 2021
A most excellent story with great characters drawn with skill and empathy. Fascinating journey of discovery for 12 year old Chance Callahan as her identity/family history starts to unravel. Never overly dramatic and raising some really interesting issues around social media and what is truth this story resonates with people who care and the consequences of choices both good and bad. Loved it.
October 6, 2021
This book is about growing up and realizing that the world isn't "black or white. Fake or real. Right or wrong. Truth or lies.". It helps you understand that things aren't as simple as they seem; the world survives in shades of grey. It follows Chance Callahan's story. At her house, nothing seems to be as she believes.
April 12, 2021
Fantastic book, the way Whiting has told this story is delightful written in a way that keeps you interested throughout. Also she has done a good amount of research and gives a very accurate portrayal of the way kids act and think. Highly recommend
August 3, 2021
[CBCA Shortlisted for Younger Readers] This middle-grade story delivers more than just your average book. Full of compassion with themes of family, loyalty and friendship there is also a secret that keeps your interest high right till the climatic ending.
September 9, 2020
A tense middle grade mystery covering family relations and personal identity. Inspired by a real event!
October 10, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. Suspense filled, Australian and very easy to read. Would recommend stage 3, refugees, kidnapping and social acceptance.
April 7, 2021
I can imagine a lot of year 6/7 students will like this one. It reminded me a little of Two Wolves.
April 10, 2021
Wow what a compelling story! Very relatable characters for years 5-9 students and a premise that keeps you reading. Very deservedly shortlisted!
April 12, 2021
Whiting has packed a lot of things into this book to hook readers from around 11 to 14 in age. Family tension, a mystery, friendship circles and school challenges including digital citizenship through online communications, and insights into refugee struggles and Sudanese family life, There is also a steady building of tension as the mystery deepens and Chance becomes increasingly worked up.
Chance Callahan has a close, loving and trusting relationship with her mother who works tirelessly to support the local refugee community. Alek, a best friend lives right next door - a member of a refugee family from Sudan that are almost like family. Chance sees the world as white and black (white first as she starts off positive), right or wrong, and there is no compromising this stance. Missa-D (Alek's mother) and Chance plot for the family home to have a makeover and it is the arrival of the camera crew, the upturning of the house and movement of her mother's precious belongings that things unravel. Chance finds documents that suggests a completely different past for her and her mother. The open relationship crumbles as her mother won't speak about it and Chance sets off on her own investigation. She becomes, worried, moody and takes some risks to find out the truth.
And... read the book to find out more, no spoilers here.
I did feel that Chance's growing obsession and changed behaviour was a bit extreme. As the mystery was unraveled I also wondered at her acceptance of what was to come and how she actively continued on this pathway regardless of the possible consequences. The conclusion was a bit flat with some matters unresolved.
Shortlisted for the 2021 CBCA Book of the Year: Younger Readers
Chance Callahan has a close, loving and trusting relationship with her mother who works tirelessly to support the local refugee community. Alek, a best friend lives right next door - a member of a refugee family from Sudan that are almost like family. Chance sees the world as white and black (white first as she starts off positive), right or wrong, and there is no compromising this stance. Missa-D (Alek's mother) and Chance plot for the family home to have a makeover and it is the arrival of the camera crew, the upturning of the house and movement of her mother's precious belongings that things unravel. Chance finds documents that suggests a completely different past for her and her mother. The open relationship crumbles as her mother won't speak about it and Chance sets off on her own investigation. She becomes, worried, moody and takes some risks to find out the truth.
And... read the book to find out more, no spoilers here.
I did feel that Chance's growing obsession and changed behaviour was a bit extreme. As the mystery was unraveled I also wondered at her acceptance of what was to come and how she actively continued on this pathway regardless of the possible consequences. The conclusion was a bit flat with some matters unresolved.
Shortlisted for the 2021 CBCA Book of the Year: Younger Readers
May 19, 2021
Covering just a short time in the life of twelve-year-old Chance and her mum, the story questions what is real in life and whether what is considered the truth depends on your perspective? This story tackles growing up in multicultural Australia, issues with social media, “fakeness” and digital citizenship, the support of friends and being part of a community. When the chips are down neighbours can be your chosen family, as strong and supportive as any blood family regardless of where you were born or the colour of your skin. This story takes the reader on an emotional journey through a brilliant and engaging tale of truth, lies and a mother's fiercely protective love for her only child.
July 3, 2020
A gripping storyline that had me awake during the night reading because I simply had to find out what happened. The ending was heartbreaking and deeply unsatisfying because I so desperately wanted to know that everyone was okay. Upper primary students are going to really love this thrilling mystery.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews