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Before the Beginning
The story of four friends, a mysterious stranger, and the week when everything changed. For fans of We Were Liars.
Schoolies week: that strange in-between time when teenagers move from school into the adult world. It's a week when anything is possible, and everything can change.
Grace is questioning everything she thought about herself, and has opted not to join her clique of judgemental friends for schoolies, instead tagging along with her brother Casper and his friends. Casper, an artist, is trying to create the perfect artwork for his uni application folio. Overachieving, anxiety-ridden Noah is reeling from a catastrophe that might have ruined his ATAR result. And Elsie is just trying to figure out how to hold their friendship group together.
On the first night of the trip, they meet Sierra, a mysterious girl with silver-grey hair and a magnetic personality. All of them are drawn to her for different reasons, and she persuades them to abandon the cliched schoolies experience in favour of camping with her on a remote, uninhabited island. On that island, each of them will find answers to their questions. But what does Sierra want from them?
An empathetic and suspenseful coming-of-age story from the author of All That Impossible Space.
Schoolies week: that strange in-between time when teenagers move from school into the adult world. It's a week when anything is possible, and everything can change.
Grace is questioning everything she thought about herself, and has opted not to join her clique of judgemental friends for schoolies, instead tagging along with her brother Casper and his friends. Casper, an artist, is trying to create the perfect artwork for his uni application folio. Overachieving, anxiety-ridden Noah is reeling from a catastrophe that might have ruined his ATAR result. And Elsie is just trying to figure out how to hold their friendship group together.
On the first night of the trip, they meet Sierra, a mysterious girl with silver-grey hair and a magnetic personality. All of them are drawn to her for different reasons, and she persuades them to abandon the cliched schoolies experience in favour of camping with her on a remote, uninhabited island. On that island, each of them will find answers to their questions. But what does Sierra want from them?
An empathetic and suspenseful coming-of-age story from the author of All That Impossible Space.
240 pages, Paperback
First published September 29, 2020
6 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
About the author
Anna Morgan
2 books20 followersAnna was born in Sydney, but spent most of her childhood surrounded by mountains in Nepal and Tibet while her parents were part of an international community of health professionals. Navigating this cross-cultural life made her a curious observer of people, although most of her time was spent reading Enid Blyton and dreaming of going to boarding school. This did not cushion the shock of shifting from home-school in Tibet to an all-girls high school in Melbourne when her family returned to Australia. ALL THAT IMPOSSIBLE SPACE explores some of the intense and convoluted friendships that thrive in this setting. Anna completed a MA in Writing for Young People at Bath Spa University in 2015, and now lives in Melbourne with her husband. She works as a bookseller.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 29, 2020
Happy Release Day to this fab book! I was kindly asked to provide an endorsement quote by the publisher, and I was more than happy to;
"Soulful and suspenseful; this #LoveOzYA story doesn't take you where you think it will, it leads you where you need to be ... 'Before the Beginning' heralds Anna Morgan as the lovechild of Cath Crowley and Vikki Wakefield for her thoughtful and thrilling storytelling of the highest order."
"Soulful and suspenseful; this #LoveOzYA story doesn't take you where you think it will, it leads you where you need to be ... 'Before the Beginning' heralds Anna Morgan as the lovechild of Cath Crowley and Vikki Wakefield for her thoughtful and thrilling storytelling of the highest order."
November 5, 2020
Grace is an attentive daughter, admired among her congregation and an intelligent scholarship recipient. While awaiting her results, Grace is contemplating an apprenticeship with her congregation, reluctantly deciding to spend her postschool celebrations with her brother Casper and his friends in the seaside town of their childhood vacations. Casper hopes to complete his artists portfolio for university applications and along with best friends Elsie and Noah, spending a few days to celebrate, commiserate and ponder their futures.
Although narrated by several characters, Casper, Elise and Noah, Grace is the interloper. Grace and Casper shared a wonderful sibling relationship as children, while Casper pursues his artistry, Grace continued her involvement within the church, creating tension and alienating the young siblings. Grace is a likeable young woman, her faith has caused her to feel isolated from her friends and family as she often appears as being judgemental, culminating in being confronted by Elise. Elise barely tolerates Grace, although not by virtue of her religious beliefs but because every conversation with Grace is about her faith, while she pays little attention to anyone not sharing her own principals.
Soon after arriving at the seaside cottage, the group of four unlikely travel companions meet Sierra, a spirited young woman who convinces them to spend the the next few days illegally camping on the abandoned Shearwater Island. On the island, the serene and tranquil atmosphere allows friendships to blossom, tentative romances to begin, declarations of unrequited love and conceding that life isn't always ideal but our mistakes allow us to mature as individuals.
The characters are wonderfully contrasted. Noah was awarded with a scholarship to a prestigious private school, his mother's expectations only secondary to his own. As a result, he's incredibly anxious and overwhelmed. Elise and Casper share a codependent friendship and although Casper is seemingly unaware, Elise harbors immense feelings for her friend. The friendship blossoming between Elise and Grace was beautiful and although they both found aspects of one another's personality irritating, like Grace learning to listen to others without judgement and Elise learning patience, they found middle ground and a mutual respect for one another. Sierra was never a looming presence over their friendship group but she brought out the best in some characters, Grace especially and the worst in others, namely Casper. I wasn't fond of Casper. He's flighty and only concerned about himself, the attention others are giving him and is verging on tantrum throwing when he doesn't get his own way. Namely Sierra.
The romance between Grace and Sierra was unexpected but really lovely for the most part. Rather than Sierra encouraging Grace to explore her identity, it seemed to be the island itself and their surroundings that allowed Grace's spirit to soar and it was beautiful. Although she doesn't talk about her sexuality, I can imagine it wasn't something she was able to discuss with her friends from church, incredibly judgemental girls who felt the need to issue an announcement body shaming girls who want to wear bikinis, very much implying that the female body is a distraction for men and to cover up with a modest bathing suit. It's no wonder Grace took her chances camping with Casper and his friends, her friends, what little we hear about them, are horrible and use their faith as a reason to exclude and shame others. That seemed to be Grace's turning point.
The writing itself is magical, as Anna Morgan has creates a narrative that slowly unravels on each page. Who is Sierra? I loved the Australian summer atmosphere of Shearwater Island, the mystery, intrigue but most of all, the character development. Anna Morgan is a masterful storyteller, creating journey's of discovery, of acceptance and finding your way into the world, placing importance on the journey rather than the destination.
Although narrated by several characters, Casper, Elise and Noah, Grace is the interloper. Grace and Casper shared a wonderful sibling relationship as children, while Casper pursues his artistry, Grace continued her involvement within the church, creating tension and alienating the young siblings. Grace is a likeable young woman, her faith has caused her to feel isolated from her friends and family as she often appears as being judgemental, culminating in being confronted by Elise. Elise barely tolerates Grace, although not by virtue of her religious beliefs but because every conversation with Grace is about her faith, while she pays little attention to anyone not sharing her own principals.
Soon after arriving at the seaside cottage, the group of four unlikely travel companions meet Sierra, a spirited young woman who convinces them to spend the the next few days illegally camping on the abandoned Shearwater Island. On the island, the serene and tranquil atmosphere allows friendships to blossom, tentative romances to begin, declarations of unrequited love and conceding that life isn't always ideal but our mistakes allow us to mature as individuals.
The characters are wonderfully contrasted. Noah was awarded with a scholarship to a prestigious private school, his mother's expectations only secondary to his own. As a result, he's incredibly anxious and overwhelmed. Elise and Casper share a codependent friendship and although Casper is seemingly unaware, Elise harbors immense feelings for her friend. The friendship blossoming between Elise and Grace was beautiful and although they both found aspects of one another's personality irritating, like Grace learning to listen to others without judgement and Elise learning patience, they found middle ground and a mutual respect for one another. Sierra was never a looming presence over their friendship group but she brought out the best in some characters, Grace especially and the worst in others, namely Casper. I wasn't fond of Casper. He's flighty and only concerned about himself, the attention others are giving him and is verging on tantrum throwing when he doesn't get his own way. Namely Sierra.
The romance between Grace and Sierra was unexpected but really lovely for the most part. Rather than Sierra encouraging Grace to explore her identity, it seemed to be the island itself and their surroundings that allowed Grace's spirit to soar and it was beautiful. Although she doesn't talk about her sexuality, I can imagine it wasn't something she was able to discuss with her friends from church, incredibly judgemental girls who felt the need to issue an announcement body shaming girls who want to wear bikinis, very much implying that the female body is a distraction for men and to cover up with a modest bathing suit. It's no wonder Grace took her chances camping with Casper and his friends, her friends, what little we hear about them, are horrible and use their faith as a reason to exclude and shame others. That seemed to be Grace's turning point.
The writing itself is magical, as Anna Morgan has creates a narrative that slowly unravels on each page. Who is Sierra? I loved the Australian summer atmosphere of Shearwater Island, the mystery, intrigue but most of all, the character development. Anna Morgan is a masterful storyteller, creating journey's of discovery, of acceptance and finding your way into the world, placing importance on the journey rather than the destination.
October 24, 2020
Anna Morgan’s writing captured me from the first page. I loved this book way more than I was expecting to. I went into this book thinking it was a contemporary coming of age tale, it is that, but it is also so much more.
This “schoolies” story is split up into five parts and is told through multiple points of view as the plot progresses.
The first narrator we meet is Grace. She is extremely endearing, and I was immediately drawn to her. Grace is at a point in her life where she is finding her church and her friend group does not fit her anymore (hence why she is spending schoolies with her brother’s mates). Nothing makes me happier than normalised sexual diversity, so Grace getting to have her first girl on girl kiss on the island and getting to journey with her as her entire world shifts, was bliss. While we are inside Grace’s head, we find out how lost and alone she is feeling. But also, how worried she is for her brother’s future too, even if for the most part he treats her dismissively and she always feels she has to compete with him and make up for his shortcomings.
The second narrator we meet is Noah. Oh, what a beautiful Bubba Boy. I just wanted to hug Noah and take him to therapy. This kid made the mother in me rear up, I wanted to help this kid. I wanted to nurture this kid. I saw a lot of my eldest son in Noah and it made my heartache. The poor bub has crippling anxiety and is way too hard on himself. He is super smart and a total sweetheart. While we are inside Noah’s head, we find out how pressure is on him to succeed and we see him crumble and break – thankfully he has good mates to help put him with some much-needed RNR and moral support.
The third narrator we meet is Casper at just around the halfway mark of the story. I really did not like Casper until I got to be in his head. He tends to get lost in his own head, losing track of the real world, and sometimes really struggles to get out and is left feeling a little out of sync. With the end of his chapters, we get to experience him realising what a dick he had been, but also the story really ramps up in suspense and action.
The fourth narrator we meet is Elsie. Oh Elsie, she is trying to get over her crush on her bestie, trying to figure out what she wants to do after school, who she wants to be, and trying to hold her group of friends together. Elsie and Grace were quite standoffish at first and I loved seeing their friendship grow.
For the fifth and final part of the story narration swaps back to Grace.
I have talked about the others, so now I must mention the last of all the main characters, the one who pushes the plot along to its flaring conclusion, but does not get to narrate the story. The one teen who was a stranger to the rest of them in the beginning. Oh, Sierra! Is she the ghost of a girl who died on Shearwater Island, or just a copycat using her name, or is she something else, perhaps a mythical creature from the sea? I do not want to tell you what I think about who or what Sierra is (I changed my mind a few times along the way). I want you to meet her and make up your own mind.
This book touches on faith, sexuality, sibling rivalry, growing up, the pressure put on kids relating to final exams, and picking the perfect careers. Each of the four friends’ journeys was beautiful, full of reflection and personal growth, their time on the island only strengthening their bonds of friendship.
BEFORE THE BEGINNING is a phenomenal read, a cut above the rest, and it will stay with you for quite some time.
This “schoolies” story is split up into five parts and is told through multiple points of view as the plot progresses.
The first narrator we meet is Grace. She is extremely endearing, and I was immediately drawn to her. Grace is at a point in her life where she is finding her church and her friend group does not fit her anymore (hence why she is spending schoolies with her brother’s mates). Nothing makes me happier than normalised sexual diversity, so Grace getting to have her first girl on girl kiss on the island and getting to journey with her as her entire world shifts, was bliss. While we are inside Grace’s head, we find out how lost and alone she is feeling. But also, how worried she is for her brother’s future too, even if for the most part he treats her dismissively and she always feels she has to compete with him and make up for his shortcomings.
The second narrator we meet is Noah. Oh, what a beautiful Bubba Boy. I just wanted to hug Noah and take him to therapy. This kid made the mother in me rear up, I wanted to help this kid. I wanted to nurture this kid. I saw a lot of my eldest son in Noah and it made my heartache. The poor bub has crippling anxiety and is way too hard on himself. He is super smart and a total sweetheart. While we are inside Noah’s head, we find out how pressure is on him to succeed and we see him crumble and break – thankfully he has good mates to help put him with some much-needed RNR and moral support.
The third narrator we meet is Casper at just around the halfway mark of the story. I really did not like Casper until I got to be in his head. He tends to get lost in his own head, losing track of the real world, and sometimes really struggles to get out and is left feeling a little out of sync. With the end of his chapters, we get to experience him realising what a dick he had been, but also the story really ramps up in suspense and action.
The fourth narrator we meet is Elsie. Oh Elsie, she is trying to get over her crush on her bestie, trying to figure out what she wants to do after school, who she wants to be, and trying to hold her group of friends together. Elsie and Grace were quite standoffish at first and I loved seeing their friendship grow.
For the fifth and final part of the story narration swaps back to Grace.
I have talked about the others, so now I must mention the last of all the main characters, the one who pushes the plot along to its flaring conclusion, but does not get to narrate the story. The one teen who was a stranger to the rest of them in the beginning. Oh, Sierra! Is she the ghost of a girl who died on Shearwater Island, or just a copycat using her name, or is she something else, perhaps a mythical creature from the sea? I do not want to tell you what I think about who or what Sierra is (I changed my mind a few times along the way). I want you to meet her and make up your own mind.
This book touches on faith, sexuality, sibling rivalry, growing up, the pressure put on kids relating to final exams, and picking the perfect careers. Each of the four friends’ journeys was beautiful, full of reflection and personal growth, their time on the island only strengthening their bonds of friendship.
BEFORE THE BEGINNING is a phenomenal read, a cut above the rest, and it will stay with you for quite some time.
October 20, 2020
What a unique read.
Morgan takes you into what appears to be the perfect summer. Friends, family, love and a mysterious girl who seems to have it all figured out.
This book is about finding yourself, about friendship and family. About what truly matters. It is easy to read, easy to follow and has something for everyone
Morgan takes you into what appears to be the perfect summer. Friends, family, love and a mysterious girl who seems to have it all figured out.
This book is about finding yourself, about friendship and family. About what truly matters. It is easy to read, easy to follow and has something for everyone
September 12, 2020
Four teenagers embark on Schoolies following the end of their VCE exams, intent on celebrating the end of high school and the start of their newfound adulthood. There they find themselves inexplicably drawn towards a mysterious guitarist named Sierra, who persuades them into joining her on a camping trip to Shearwater island, an uninhabited natural park known to the locals. Their leisurely getaway, however, soon takes a turn as tension ripples and secrets in the group are slowly uncovered.
At first glance, the protagonists of the book feel like familiar characters we all know, there's the responsible one, the activist, the overachiever and the artsy kid who insists on being above pop culture (who happened to be my personal favourite). However, as secrets are revealed, relationships are fractured and tensions ripple it becomes very clear that first impressions don't necessarily ring true. Morgan masterfully brings each character to life and shows that not everything is always as it seems. What the reader is treated to is something more than any conventional trope, with each teen having their own distinct voice, quirks and insecurities that render them unique.
It is through these characters that Morgan creates a remarkably authentic tribute to the modern high school experience. This is exemplified in her thoughtful portrayal of the anxieties that surround exams and the difficulties that every teen inevitably faces in deciding what comes next. Flashbacks throughout the book feel like small nods to fond moments of the school year that many will likely resonate with. One of my favourite moments was during a flashback to university open days, where characters were gleefully comparing the number of freebies they'd been given - this is doubtless a defining moment of every teens life (covid withstanding). Even just seeing characters go through the stress of waiting for ATAR's, stressing about preferences and checking the dreaded texts was really enjoyable. I felt like grabbing the nearest person, pointing at the characters and saying, 'Look!!! It me!!!!!!!!!!!!'
It also seems like the characters aren't the only ones with depth beneath their surface. As the book progresses, the reader is treated to mysterious articles surrounding the island's history as well as strange excerpts about mythical sea beings. You can't help but wonder, what is going on here? Who is Sierra? What's going to happen? It lends the book an essential air of mystery that implores you to keep reading and makes the book something more than just a glance into a couple of teens' lives. I won't go into this any further details to avoid any spoilers, but despite the many questions the book raises I think that Morgan did a commendable job in tying them all up neatly by the end of the book. Anna Morgan has ultimately crafted an enjoyable read that is a comforting hand for anyone who has struggled to find their place in the world. Suitable for readers aged 13+.
At first glance, the protagonists of the book feel like familiar characters we all know, there's the responsible one, the activist, the overachiever and the artsy kid who insists on being above pop culture (who happened to be my personal favourite). However, as secrets are revealed, relationships are fractured and tensions ripple it becomes very clear that first impressions don't necessarily ring true. Morgan masterfully brings each character to life and shows that not everything is always as it seems. What the reader is treated to is something more than any conventional trope, with each teen having their own distinct voice, quirks and insecurities that render them unique.
It is through these characters that Morgan creates a remarkably authentic tribute to the modern high school experience. This is exemplified in her thoughtful portrayal of the anxieties that surround exams and the difficulties that every teen inevitably faces in deciding what comes next. Flashbacks throughout the book feel like small nods to fond moments of the school year that many will likely resonate with. One of my favourite moments was during a flashback to university open days, where characters were gleefully comparing the number of freebies they'd been given - this is doubtless a defining moment of every teens life (covid withstanding). Even just seeing characters go through the stress of waiting for ATAR's, stressing about preferences and checking the dreaded texts was really enjoyable. I felt like grabbing the nearest person, pointing at the characters and saying, 'Look!!! It me!!!!!!!!!!!!'
It also seems like the characters aren't the only ones with depth beneath their surface. As the book progresses, the reader is treated to mysterious articles surrounding the island's history as well as strange excerpts about mythical sea beings. You can't help but wonder, what is going on here? Who is Sierra? What's going to happen? It lends the book an essential air of mystery that implores you to keep reading and makes the book something more than just a glance into a couple of teens' lives. I won't go into this any further details to avoid any spoilers, but despite the many questions the book raises I think that Morgan did a commendable job in tying them all up neatly by the end of the book. Anna Morgan has ultimately crafted an enjoyable read that is a comforting hand for anyone who has struggled to find their place in the world. Suitable for readers aged 13+.
October 29, 2020
A huge thank you to Hachette Australia/Date a Book for sending me a copy of Before The Beginning to read and review as part of the review tour, all thoughts are my own.
I’d long been excited for Before The Beginning, having absolutely adored Anna Morgan’s wonderful debut, All That Impossible Space.
I love how Before The Beginning sweeps readers in right away, with one of the main characters reflecting on their adventure and the mysterious young girl who they meet near the start of their journey, Sierra. As soon as her character was introduced, I found myself wanting to know more of her origin and her agenda – I absolutely loved that there were notations in between the chapters, alluding to mythological ties connecting Sierra to the island and of course the little teasers about the islands history, where a group of young teens ventured on an exciting but ill fated trip!
These wonderfully mythical teasers coupled with a backdrop of a cast of wonderfully real characters celebrating Schoolies, though not potentially in the conventional fashion, Before The Beginning is a wonderfully lyrical, immersive, cross-genre beauty!
I love how Before The Beginning is narrated from each of the main characters points of view, starting and ending with Grace, who we meet as a young girl who’s questioning everything she thought she knew (especially on a spiritual level, being torn about her Church’s values and learning her once close friends would be prejudice against what she believes in! I instantly adored her and hopefully she’d find happiness and peace in this adventure! Though it was so sad that her Brother (Casper) didn’t want her tagging along and didn’t care enough to tell his closest friends (Elsie and Noah) that she was coming in the first place!
Noah’s chapters were my favourite, I found Anna Morgan’s writing depicting his anxiety and worrying nature on such a real scale! His emotions, to me, really seeped through the page and his character was definitely the one that I loved reading about most, I honestly thought that his chapters were the ones packed with the most emotion, I found myself really feeling sad for him when he recounts fond memories of his beloved cat curling up with him and putting happily, Noah not always knowing his purpose in the world but being happy knowing that he could be a cushion for Ursula! So sweet, my heart!
Each of our four characters definitely had a chip on their shoulder throughout Before The Beginning and it was really great that Grace, Casper, Noah and Elsie got to have moments throughout this book where they learnt things about themselves, though it’s definitely not to say that the journey definitely wasn’t without its angst, because there was definitely plenty of that! Unfortunately for me though, I felt like there was just too much page time spent amongst these characters talking about their realisations, more so getting to the point where they always had suspected Sierra of erring on the menacing side and thinking she wants to keep them on the island (again, those whispers of mythology, which I love and truthfully wish there had of been more of!).
I definitely recommend Before The Beginning though, if you’re looking for a beautiful and completely mysterious and sometimes whimsical adventure, shrouded in some mythology too!
I’d long been excited for Before The Beginning, having absolutely adored Anna Morgan’s wonderful debut, All That Impossible Space.
I love how Before The Beginning sweeps readers in right away, with one of the main characters reflecting on their adventure and the mysterious young girl who they meet near the start of their journey, Sierra. As soon as her character was introduced, I found myself wanting to know more of her origin and her agenda – I absolutely loved that there were notations in between the chapters, alluding to mythological ties connecting Sierra to the island and of course the little teasers about the islands history, where a group of young teens ventured on an exciting but ill fated trip!
These wonderfully mythical teasers coupled with a backdrop of a cast of wonderfully real characters celebrating Schoolies, though not potentially in the conventional fashion, Before The Beginning is a wonderfully lyrical, immersive, cross-genre beauty!
I love how Before The Beginning is narrated from each of the main characters points of view, starting and ending with Grace, who we meet as a young girl who’s questioning everything she thought she knew (especially on a spiritual level, being torn about her Church’s values and learning her once close friends would be prejudice against what she believes in! I instantly adored her and hopefully she’d find happiness and peace in this adventure! Though it was so sad that her Brother (Casper) didn’t want her tagging along and didn’t care enough to tell his closest friends (Elsie and Noah) that she was coming in the first place!
Noah’s chapters were my favourite, I found Anna Morgan’s writing depicting his anxiety and worrying nature on such a real scale! His emotions, to me, really seeped through the page and his character was definitely the one that I loved reading about most, I honestly thought that his chapters were the ones packed with the most emotion, I found myself really feeling sad for him when he recounts fond memories of his beloved cat curling up with him and putting happily, Noah not always knowing his purpose in the world but being happy knowing that he could be a cushion for Ursula! So sweet, my heart!
Each of our four characters definitely had a chip on their shoulder throughout Before The Beginning and it was really great that Grace, Casper, Noah and Elsie got to have moments throughout this book where they learnt things about themselves, though it’s definitely not to say that the journey definitely wasn’t without its angst, because there was definitely plenty of that! Unfortunately for me though, I felt like there was just too much page time spent amongst these characters talking about their realisations, more so getting to the point where they always had suspected Sierra of erring on the menacing side and thinking she wants to keep them on the island (again, those whispers of mythology, which I love and truthfully wish there had of been more of!).
I definitely recommend Before The Beginning though, if you’re looking for a beautiful and completely mysterious and sometimes whimsical adventure, shrouded in some mythology too!
May 22, 2021
“Our week is here.
Let’s dance on the beach.
Let’s sing as loud as we like.
Let’s see who comes to join us.”
In the first week of summer, school leavers around Australia descend on the country's beaches; to party, to drink, to ignore the impending doom of final results and university offers. But Grace, Casper, Elsie and Noah can't run away from their worries and when they meet the mysterious Sierra, things only get more uncertain.
I love it when a book turns out to be different from your expectations in a way that's bigger and better than you could have imagined. This is a quiet little book but the undercurrents of magic and the focus on healing and growth made it a beautiful reading experience that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The characters are the highlight of this story and I loved that Morgan gave each of them their time to shine, though I was definitely most attached to Grace. Morgan wrote about her struggle with her faith beautifully and addressed the tension between religious schools and the Australian marriage equality plebiscite with such care.
And I just loved the little mystery with Sierra. The snippets from her book and the newspapers were excellent puzzle pieces to scatter through the novel and kept me guessing right 'til the end. Though I am a little sad about how her and Grace's romance ended. I had hoped it would end differently.
A lovely novel that highlights a quintessential Australian teen experience while giving it a subtle, supernatural twist and focusing on friendship above all else.
June 26, 2020
This the type of book perfect for those who love coming-of-age stories. The story completely draws you in and wonder what the message behind all this adventure.
• Brother and sister
• Deals with issues teens go through
• Through stressful and anxiety filled moments people come together
Overall, this book was a fun read! It was lovely to see the bond of people who didn’t like each other grow as they figure things out over time. The representation of the family bond and expectations in this book was amazing to see.
• Brother and sister
• Deals with issues teens go through
• Through stressful and anxiety filled moments people come together
Overall, this book was a fun read! It was lovely to see the bond of people who didn’t like each other grow as they figure things out over time. The representation of the family bond and expectations in this book was amazing to see.
October 25, 2020
Four teenagers and the schoolies week that answers their questions and changes everything, all thanks to a mysterious stranger. An interesting premise that delivered in ways I was not anticipating.
You can read my full review here.
It was an enjoyable and somewhat motivational read. Whether you are a teenager trying to figure out who you are or what to do after high school, an adult trying to figure out how to navigate the new unknowns in your life, or just a fan of YA contemporaries with a hint of mystery, I highly recommend you give this one a read.
You can read my full review here.
It was an enjoyable and somewhat motivational read. Whether you are a teenager trying to figure out who you are or what to do after high school, an adult trying to figure out how to navigate the new unknowns in your life, or just a fan of YA contemporaries with a hint of mystery, I highly recommend you give this one a read.
October 23, 2020
This is a super compelling contemporary YA. A slightly less sinister teen version of 'The Beach' (that Dicaprio movie) set during Schoolies week. Toying with magic realism and a hint of crime suspense keeps you wanting to read as you cycle through the 4 main characters POV. But, in YA fashion, the biggest mystery is WTF to do next year/with the rest of your life.
Strong recommend for 12+
Strong recommend for 12+
September 26, 2020
4.5 Stars rounded up.
RTC and will be published over at The Nerd Daily.
Thank you to Hachette Australia for sending me a copy of this wonderful book!
RTC and will be published over at The Nerd Daily.
Thank you to Hachette Australia for sending me a copy of this wonderful book!
October 4, 2020
I decided to write a longer review for Reading Time. It's here.
A little bit mysterious, definitely alluring, and a lot coming-of-age.
It's all good.
(effective construction and framing).
A little bit mysterious, definitely alluring, and a lot coming-of-age.
It's all good.
(effective construction and framing).
September 6, 2021
What a nice little book! I wanted to read this "before I got too old and forgot the high school experience", but I am glad I read it :) I was initially drawn to this book by the premise of one of the character's (Grace) friendship groups breaking up/not being friends with them any more right as school ended. This was similar to what happened with me and my friends, and like Grace I didn't go to schoolies with them (but unlike her I stayed home and read lol). I think I would have liked to delve deeper into the friendship issues Grace had, but that wasn't what the book was about so it's understandable.
I really liked all of the characters—Grace, Noah, Casper, Elsie—and how they all had such distinct voices. I was surprised that I could relate to all of them in some ways, and it was kind of nice to see reflections of myself in four different people.
It was also such a fun surprise with the added..."fantasy"? "paranormal"? element (even though I was still a bit confused at the end, but that's probably my fault for reading the book over multiple sittings. Not quite sure what was going on with Sierra but it was intriguing). I loved the passages from the Dictionary of Undersea things :D
The ending felt right and wrapped up nicely. Throughout the book, but particularly the end, really captured that school is not the be-all-end-all and that you literally have your whole life ahead of you. It was also great to see how close Casper, Noah and Elsie were. Usually the reader is told "oh they were best friends", but with these three you really felt they'd known each other for years and knew the little details. I loved the line that went something like "we knew each other so well that sometimes we forgot to ask how the other was feeling". And that, hit home.
But yeah, I liked this!
I really liked all of the characters—Grace, Noah, Casper, Elsie—and how they all had such distinct voices. I was surprised that I could relate to all of them in some ways, and it was kind of nice to see reflections of myself in four different people.
It was also such a fun surprise with the added..."fantasy"? "paranormal"? element (even though I was still a bit confused at the end, but that's probably my fault for reading the book over multiple sittings. Not quite sure what was going on with Sierra but it was intriguing). I loved the passages from the Dictionary of Undersea things :D
The ending felt right and wrapped up nicely. Throughout the book, but particularly the end, really captured that school is not the be-all-end-all and that you literally have your whole life ahead of you. It was also great to see how close Casper, Noah and Elsie were. Usually the reader is told "oh they were best friends", but with these three you really felt they'd known each other for years and knew the little details. I loved the line that went something like "we knew each other so well that sometimes we forgot to ask how the other was feeling". And that, hit home.
But yeah, I liked this!
October 28, 2020
Before the Beginning by Anna Morgan
Before the Beginning is a sweet coming of age story that follows four friends, a mysterious stranger and the schoolies week when everything changed. The story is split into five different parts, each focusing on the four main characters: Grace, Casper, Noah and Elise.
Grace, who is Casper’s older sister, going Casper, Noah, and Elise on their schoolies as she avoids her friends from church. Together the four of them meet a strange girl with silver-like hair at the beach. This girl, Sierra, then convinces the group to join her on a camping excursion at an uninhabited island. On this island, their friendship is tested, and everyone learns a more about themselves and what they hope to continue to do with the upcoming future — while of course confronting their inner demons.
While in the surface it looks like your regular old coming-of-age story (and it sorta is) it does have an element of eternalness and mystery to the story. Especially as you learn more about Sierra through the perspective of the main for characters. However, the mystery isn’t a big deal as the blurb makes it out to be. It only comes up in the last 20-30 pages of the overall short novel.
Morgan tackles various difficult topics with sensitivity and care, such as dealing with anxiety, society’s pressure and leaving high school, which was the overall strong suit of the novel.
Overall, the novel was fast and lighthearted but very average. There were no twists, or big gasp moments and nothing that made sad to leave the characters as the story came to an end. While this book was not for me, I know a few people that will like this easy read.
Thanks to Hachette for providing me a copy of the book in exchange of a review.
Before the Beginning is a sweet coming of age story that follows four friends, a mysterious stranger and the schoolies week when everything changed. The story is split into five different parts, each focusing on the four main characters: Grace, Casper, Noah and Elise.
Grace, who is Casper’s older sister, going Casper, Noah, and Elise on their schoolies as she avoids her friends from church. Together the four of them meet a strange girl with silver-like hair at the beach. This girl, Sierra, then convinces the group to join her on a camping excursion at an uninhabited island. On this island, their friendship is tested, and everyone learns a more about themselves and what they hope to continue to do with the upcoming future — while of course confronting their inner demons.
While in the surface it looks like your regular old coming-of-age story (and it sorta is) it does have an element of eternalness and mystery to the story. Especially as you learn more about Sierra through the perspective of the main for characters. However, the mystery isn’t a big deal as the blurb makes it out to be. It only comes up in the last 20-30 pages of the overall short novel.
Morgan tackles various difficult topics with sensitivity and care, such as dealing with anxiety, society’s pressure and leaving high school, which was the overall strong suit of the novel.
Overall, the novel was fast and lighthearted but very average. There were no twists, or big gasp moments and nothing that made sad to leave the characters as the story came to an end. While this book was not for me, I know a few people that will like this easy read.
Thanks to Hachette for providing me a copy of the book in exchange of a review.
November 7, 2020
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Thank you Hachette for this book in exchange for an honest review
This is one of those books where you think you know what it’s about, but then it takes you by surprise.
We meet an extremely endearing Grace, who you will adore. Grace is at a bit of a crossroads where she is finding she doesn’t fit into her church group and her collection of friends. Opting to spend schoolies with her brother’s mates, Grace gets to explore all life has to offer her. She gets to experience her first girl kiss, as she find what could be her new place in life.
You get to see how young minds feel the pressure of life, society, religion and culture as they just try to find their feet in life. While you experience this story through Grace’s mind you get to see how she takes on the fear of her bother’s future and how she feels as though she has to compete with him.
We also meet Noah, who really takes the world on his shoulders and it fill him with dreed and anxiety. Noah is the kind of character that you want to protect, wrap him up and keep him safe. Noah it the character that I feel a majority of our younger generation relate to.
Amongst Noah and Grace, you meet other characters and see the world through their eyes and in the depths of their minds, you feel their struggles. This book touches on so many of the realities that our younger generation face, and the struggles that life has to hold.
Morgan has delivered yet another brilliant masterpiece and that’s coming for a person who isn’t a contemporary fan.
Bookstagram
Website
Thank you Hachette for this book in exchange for an honest review
This is one of those books where you think you know what it’s about, but then it takes you by surprise.
We meet an extremely endearing Grace, who you will adore. Grace is at a bit of a crossroads where she is finding she doesn’t fit into her church group and her collection of friends. Opting to spend schoolies with her brother’s mates, Grace gets to explore all life has to offer her. She gets to experience her first girl kiss, as she find what could be her new place in life.
You get to see how young minds feel the pressure of life, society, religion and culture as they just try to find their feet in life. While you experience this story through Grace’s mind you get to see how she takes on the fear of her bother’s future and how she feels as though she has to compete with him.
We also meet Noah, who really takes the world on his shoulders and it fill him with dreed and anxiety. Noah is the kind of character that you want to protect, wrap him up and keep him safe. Noah it the character that I feel a majority of our younger generation relate to.
Amongst Noah and Grace, you meet other characters and see the world through their eyes and in the depths of their minds, you feel their struggles. This book touches on so many of the realities that our younger generation face, and the struggles that life has to hold.
Morgan has delivered yet another brilliant masterpiece and that’s coming for a person who isn’t a contemporary fan.
October 26, 2020
3.5 Stars
Before the beginning is a coming of age, character driven story that follows a group of teenagers on their schoolies week. A sister, crashing her brothers schoolies and his two friends go on schoolies expecting something and find that their experience is not what they expected, after meeting a girl.
Before the Beginning was not what I was expecting. I was expecting a story of a few teenagers on schoolies dealing with something creepy and mysterious. But I had no idea what. Instead it is a very character driven story and the mystery was pushed to the sidelines and only briefly discussed throughout and at the end.
Although it wasn't what I was expecting, I really enjoyed Before the Beginning. It is a very easy read and I felt like I was flying through it. All the characters are very distinct and have their own voice and POV throughout the story, which is done really well. All the characters had a great arc and you could feel and see them change and grow as people and build deeper and more meaningful relationships between them.
The whole time while reading, I was waiting for the twist that I knew was coming. I really wish that it was explored more and there was more of a struggle (Does that make me a terrible person?), I just felt like it was resolved too quickly once it was addressed.
Overall Before the Beginning was a fun, fast read that I would recommend for anyone looking for a somewhat lighthearted but mysterious story.
Before the beginning is a coming of age, character driven story that follows a group of teenagers on their schoolies week. A sister, crashing her brothers schoolies and his two friends go on schoolies expecting something and find that their experience is not what they expected, after meeting a girl.
Before the Beginning was not what I was expecting. I was expecting a story of a few teenagers on schoolies dealing with something creepy and mysterious. But I had no idea what. Instead it is a very character driven story and the mystery was pushed to the sidelines and only briefly discussed throughout and at the end.
Although it wasn't what I was expecting, I really enjoyed Before the Beginning. It is a very easy read and I felt like I was flying through it. All the characters are very distinct and have their own voice and POV throughout the story, which is done really well. All the characters had a great arc and you could feel and see them change and grow as people and build deeper and more meaningful relationships between them.
The whole time while reading, I was waiting for the twist that I knew was coming. I really wish that it was explored more and there was more of a struggle (Does that make me a terrible person?), I just felt like it was resolved too quickly once it was addressed.
Overall Before the Beginning was a fun, fast read that I would recommend for anyone looking for a somewhat lighthearted but mysterious story.
May 22, 2021
Book 34 of 2021;
Before the Beginning
-Anna Morgan
Before the Beginning is a coming of age story that follows four teenagers who have just finished high school and are experiencing all of the anxieties & issues that come with that transition.
The story comprised of 4 parts, all narrated by a different character. Grace, her brother Casper & Caspers good friends Noah & Elsie. I really loved the way that the story unfolded through all four perspectives & the first person narration really allowed me to get to know each of the main characters & their struggles. I enjoyed reading from all of their perspectives & felt like my younger self could relate with all of them, despite being quite different to some of the characters.
Anna Morgan touches on the topical themes of anxiety & confirming to expectations, the importance of friendships & how to hold on to them, (& conversely recognising when to let go), & a theme barely touched in YA fiction, faith & religion. It’s significant here, jutting up against the magic realism & anti-lgbt proponents who use charism to undermine & to shame people still figuring out their sexual identity. While there is some romance, it doesn’t dominate, another unusual feature of a young adult book.
Before the Beginning is a truly wonderful read that gives so much in its relatively small package. It is a comforting coming-of-age story & will appeal to readers of all ages.
4/5⭐️
Happy Reading x
Before the Beginning
-Anna Morgan
Before the Beginning is a coming of age story that follows four teenagers who have just finished high school and are experiencing all of the anxieties & issues that come with that transition.
The story comprised of 4 parts, all narrated by a different character. Grace, her brother Casper & Caspers good friends Noah & Elsie. I really loved the way that the story unfolded through all four perspectives & the first person narration really allowed me to get to know each of the main characters & their struggles. I enjoyed reading from all of their perspectives & felt like my younger self could relate with all of them, despite being quite different to some of the characters.
Anna Morgan touches on the topical themes of anxiety & confirming to expectations, the importance of friendships & how to hold on to them, (& conversely recognising when to let go), & a theme barely touched in YA fiction, faith & religion. It’s significant here, jutting up against the magic realism & anti-lgbt proponents who use charism to undermine & to shame people still figuring out their sexual identity. While there is some romance, it doesn’t dominate, another unusual feature of a young adult book.
Before the Beginning is a truly wonderful read that gives so much in its relatively small package. It is a comforting coming-of-age story & will appeal to readers of all ages.
4/5⭐️
Happy Reading x
November 3, 2020
Before the Beginning was an interesting and unexpected read. Starting this book I thought it was going to be about four friends embarking on a camping trip during schoolies week and having fun. Which, in part, it was. But it was also so much more than that.
Told from four separate POVs; Grace, Casper, Noah and Elise; it is their own self discovery and coming-of-age story. Throughout the book each of the characters grow and realise something important about themselves and their friendships with each other.
Noah’s POV was my favourite. It really resonated with me about Year 12 and all the stress we go through with exams and worrying about ATAR scores, and how you think you need to have your whole life figured out by the time you’re 18 years old. When really you don’t. I also liked the way the author handled the topic of anxiety. It was a realistic and respectful representation. I just really wanted to tell Noah that everything was going to be okay.
Then there was Sierra. The mysterious stranger they met on the first night. Personally, I thought she was a little eerie right from the start. The whole time I was wondering who was she? What does she want? It kept me turning pages, I just had to know! There were also echos of stranger-danger warnings and trusting someone you’ve only just met, which is definitely something to keep in mind.
All in all, I enjoyed this beautifully written read.
Thank you Hachette Australia for sending me a finished copy to review.
March 4, 2021
I'm so so so disappointed by this book. I was really excited to read this one for many reasons. One, I just graduated from highschool in Australia and I completed my ATAR (albeit whilst struggling with a lot of anxiety) so I thought I'd be able to relate really well to this book. Secondly, I love YA contemporary set in Australia because not only because of the relatability factor but it also feels comforting as it reminds me of home, hence why some of my favorite books of all time are by Claire Zorn and Holden Sheppard. Unfortunately, this book was not even close to being a fraction as good as books by those authors. The characters where incredibly one dimensional which made for a flat and boring reading experience. The conflicts in this book felt far fetched making the book unrealistic, leaving for a super dethatched reading experience. 100% wouldn't recommend this one, if you're looking for books with similar themes pick up Holden Sheppard's 'Invisible Boys' or any of Claire Zorn's books instead as they are fantastic and you won't have to waste hours of your life reading this book like I did.
October 26, 2020
Before The Beginning follows 4 friends who are embarking on schoolies week, they are all dealing with their own seperate struggles and trying to figure out what's next when they meet a girl called, Sierra who, for different reasons, gives each of them a schoolies week they'll never forget.
I really enjoyed how relatable the characters were. During the book we get to experience all 4 friends POV, But for me the most powerful thing in this book is the way Anna wrote the description of Noahs anxiety , how it feels and his connection to animals as a form of therapy.
some parts felt a little slower and dragged out but I think that added to the laid back, beachy, isolated setting the book is written in.
I would definitely recommended you pick up Before the beginning and also, All That Impossible Space if you haven't already!
I really enjoyed how relatable the characters were. During the book we get to experience all 4 friends POV, But for me the most powerful thing in this book is the way Anna wrote the description of Noahs anxiety , how it feels and his connection to animals as a form of therapy.
some parts felt a little slower and dragged out but I think that added to the laid back, beachy, isolated setting the book is written in.
I would definitely recommended you pick up Before the beginning and also, All That Impossible Space if you haven't already!
June 20, 2023
Wasn't bad, wasn't phenomenal, but it was just an okay read I guess.
There were numerous intriguing concepts & themes that were explored throughout the novel and the several perspectives in the novel but I just wasn't too invested. I feel like this would've been a different case had I begun the book in a time period where I had more free time, but then again, I probably would've found the time for this book regardless if I was really invested in it. However, I wasn't and that caused me to read it at a much slower pace than I normally read fictional novels this length.
That being said though, this wasn't a bad read or a waste of time in my opinion, it's just not something I could see myself getting extremely interested or invested in if a sequel or movie/show adaptation were to ever come out and I definitely won't be rereading this.
There were numerous intriguing concepts & themes that were explored throughout the novel and the several perspectives in the novel but I just wasn't too invested. I feel like this would've been a different case had I begun the book in a time period where I had more free time, but then again, I probably would've found the time for this book regardless if I was really invested in it. However, I wasn't and that caused me to read it at a much slower pace than I normally read fictional novels this length.
That being said though, this wasn't a bad read or a waste of time in my opinion, it's just not something I could see myself getting extremely interested or invested in if a sequel or movie/show adaptation were to ever come out and I definitely won't be rereading this.
October 25, 2020
I loved this book! It's a YA coming of age novel that I devoured in one sitting. I really liked the characters, they were all unique and came together to create the perfect story.
I also found that this book portrayed the anxieties of high school quite well. I definitely recommend this book to those who are fans of YA!
Thank you so much to @dateabook, @ausyabloggers and @amorgs for providing me with a copy of this book and including me on the tour!
I also found that this book portrayed the anxieties of high school quite well. I definitely recommend this book to those who are fans of YA!
Thank you so much to @dateabook, @ausyabloggers and @amorgs for providing me with a copy of this book and including me on the tour!
May 23, 2021
This book will appeal to teen readers. Plenty of relationship angst with mystery and summer beach adventure thrown in. I got into it about half way through and started to enjoy the characters - especially Casper. My advice is to not panic about the plot holes, just find a warm comfy spot and enjoy.
I will be recommending this for Year 9+ (age 13 onward) although it doesn't contain anything untoward for a Y7/8 if they are reading beyond their years.
I will be recommending this for Year 9+ (age 13 onward) although it doesn't contain anything untoward for a Y7/8 if they are reading beyond their years.
October 5, 2021
A very quick but not hugely inspiring read. I enjoyed the premise, but it was written in first person and some of the characters were too similar in their voices to easily distinguish. I did learn a new word though: spondonicle. Aussies are funny.
One thing that really bugged me was Sierra's name, which means something like mountain range. Surely she'd have a sea/water related name.
One thing that really bugged me was Sierra's name, which means something like mountain range. Surely she'd have a sea/water related name.
May 23, 2022
Enjoyed it - even though it's all the YA tropes it's well written YA tropes & well written characters that were unique but not stereotypes. And the Australian voice is refreshing. Enjoyed the interesting take on the church & perception of Christianity which is something that's not seen a lot in secular writing.
4 stars
4 stars
June 7, 2021
Very well crafted. The dilemmas of each of the four friends are common themes, but the way they're revealed is quite fresh. The whole Sierra storyline adds something different, sometimes seems like it doesn't fit with the rest of the story, but I enjoyed it anyway.
July 3, 2021
it was a nice book with a good amount of suspense. i thought the ending was good compared to other books with the same level of curiosity and tension. i really related to noah ✌️😚 helpful right before subject selections!
October 7, 2020
*review to come*
October 14, 2020
4.5/5 ❤
October 30, 2020
Check out my review on my blog
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