What do you think?
Rate this book
An Unusual Boy
Meet Jackson - a very unusual boy in a world that prefers 'normal'...
Julia Curtis is a busy mother of three, with a husband often away for work, an ever-present mother-in-law, a career, and a house that needs doing up. Her fourteen-year-old daughter, Milla, has fallen in love for the first time, and her youngest, Ruby, is a nine-year-old fashionista who can out-negotiate anyone.
But Julia’s eleven-year-old son, Jackson, is different. Different to his sisters. Different to his classmates. In fact, Jackson is different from everyone. And bringing up a child who is different isn’t always easy.
Then, one Monday morning, Jackson follows his new friend Digby into the school toilets. What happens inside changes everything; not only for Jackson, but for every member of his family. Julia faces the fight of her life to save her unusual boy from a world set up for ‘normal’.
An extraordinary boy. The mother who loves him. The fight of their lives.
Bestselling novelist Fiona Higgins returns with a heart-stopping, devastating, but ultimately uplifting story about loyalty, love and forgiveness.
Praise for Fiona Higgins:
'An Unusual Boy' is the unforgettable story of an exceptional child and his flawed but loving family, told with Fiona Higgin's characteristic intelligence, deep empathy and insight.' Virginia Lloyd, author of Girls at the Piano and The Young Widow’s Book of Home Improvement
‘An insightful and sensitively written’ Saturday Age on The Mothers’ Group
‘An enthralling read. Be prepared to burn the midnight oil, as it is impossible to put down.’ Sunday Herald Sun on The Mothers’ Group
Julia Curtis is a busy mother of three, with a husband often away for work, an ever-present mother-in-law, a career, and a house that needs doing up. Her fourteen-year-old daughter, Milla, has fallen in love for the first time, and her youngest, Ruby, is a nine-year-old fashionista who can out-negotiate anyone.
But Julia’s eleven-year-old son, Jackson, is different. Different to his sisters. Different to his classmates. In fact, Jackson is different from everyone. And bringing up a child who is different isn’t always easy.
Then, one Monday morning, Jackson follows his new friend Digby into the school toilets. What happens inside changes everything; not only for Jackson, but for every member of his family. Julia faces the fight of her life to save her unusual boy from a world set up for ‘normal’.
An extraordinary boy. The mother who loves him. The fight of their lives.
Bestselling novelist Fiona Higgins returns with a heart-stopping, devastating, but ultimately uplifting story about loyalty, love and forgiveness.
Praise for Fiona Higgins:
'An Unusual Boy' is the unforgettable story of an exceptional child and his flawed but loving family, told with Fiona Higgin's characteristic intelligence, deep empathy and insight.' Virginia Lloyd, author of Girls at the Piano and The Young Widow’s Book of Home Improvement
‘An insightful and sensitively written’ Saturday Age on The Mothers’ Group
‘An enthralling read. Be prepared to burn the midnight oil, as it is impossible to put down.’ Sunday Herald Sun on The Mothers’ Group
299 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2020
2469 people are currently reading
2038 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Higgins
16 books162 followersFiona Higgins is the author of four novels - An Unusual Boy, Fearless, Wife on the Run and The Mothers’ Group - and a memoir, Love in the Age of Drought. She writes predominantly about contemporary life, with a special interest in intimate relationships, families and the complexities of parenting in the digital age. Her novels have been translated internationally, including in the Netherlands, France, Germany, Spain and Estonia.
Outside of writing, Fiona has tertiary qualifications in the humanities, social sciences and Indonesian Studies, and a longstanding involvement in the Australian not-for-profit sector. Over the past twenty years, she has worked with organisations specializing in philanthropy, international development, youth at risk, rural and regional issues and youth mental health.
She lives in Sydney with her family and enjoys ocean swimming, strong coffee and arguing about Monopoly with her three children.
Outside of writing, Fiona has tertiary qualifications in the humanities, social sciences and Indonesian Studies, and a longstanding involvement in the Australian not-for-profit sector. Over the past twenty years, she has worked with organisations specializing in philanthropy, international development, youth at risk, rural and regional issues and youth mental health.
She lives in Sydney with her family and enjoys ocean swimming, strong coffee and arguing about Monopoly with her three children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews
October 19, 2020
Jackson is an eleven year old Neurodiverse boy. He doesn’t have an easy diagnosis that folks can hang their hat on. His mom, Julia, has got two other kids, one having her first boyfriend, a husband that travels and a difficult mother-in-law. Oh, and a job and a house that needs renovation. I would have run away and joined the circus. And that’s before the incident at the heart of the story.
Jackson and Julia alternate as narrators. This works perfectly as we know what happened but still witness Julia’s confusion and stress.
Higgins does a fabulous job making all of the characters seem real, even the secondary characters like Pamela. The marriage between Andy and Julia seemed real, with both struggling with the hand they’ve been dealt.
The book takes a turn I never saw coming. I love when an author can catch me off guard so completely. It makes you think differently about who is a victim. Be prepared to have all your emotions engaged - joy, anger, sadness. I rolled through all of them more than once.
I’m so glad that the publisher thought to put book club discussion questions in the back because this would make a fabulous book club selection.
My thanks to netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy of this book.
Jackson and Julia alternate as narrators. This works perfectly as we know what happened but still witness Julia’s confusion and stress.
Higgins does a fabulous job making all of the characters seem real, even the secondary characters like Pamela. The marriage between Andy and Julia seemed real, with both struggling with the hand they’ve been dealt.
The book takes a turn I never saw coming. I love when an author can catch me off guard so completely. It makes you think differently about who is a victim. Be prepared to have all your emotions engaged - joy, anger, sadness. I rolled through all of them more than once.
I’m so glad that the publisher thought to put book club discussion questions in the back because this would make a fabulous book club selection.
My thanks to netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy of this book.
October 14, 2020
Eleven year old Jackson Curtis is indeed an unusual boy. He has a phenomenal memory but thinks in a literal and linear way, often having trouble finding the words he needs to communicate. Labelled as 'neurodiverse' by the doctors who can’t quite diagnose his condition, he has trouble making friends and often has meltdowns when life gets too much for him. His mother Julia is a good and patient mother who finds parenting Jackson challenging and exhausting, particularly as she has also two other children, a part time job and a husband who is often absent, travelling overseas for work.
Having recently moved to a new suburb, Julia is pleased when Jackson makes a friend called Digby at his new school and is invited to his house for a play date. However, Jackson experiences something disturbing at Digby's house while the boys are playing a game on the internet and later at school when a serious incident involving both boys occurs the police are called in to investigate.
This a wonderful story, heart warming and often humorous with a range of well depicted characters, including Julia’s mother-in-law Nana Pam who helps the family and Dead Granny who Jackson talks to on his shoe phone. Jackson is a delightful child and it is easy to feel anxious for him as he struggles to tell the police and his mother what happened, while trying to keep his promise to Digby not to tell. Fiona Higgins’ sensitive treatment of Jackson is a reminder to all of us that there is no such thing as a 'normal' child and all children and their parents need to be treated with respect and compassion no matter what their ‘differences’. As Nana Pam says to Jackson's sister "Normal doesn't exist, darling" "It's just a cycle on the washing machine." 4.5★
With thanks to Fiona Higgins, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a copy to read
Having recently moved to a new suburb, Julia is pleased when Jackson makes a friend called Digby at his new school and is invited to his house for a play date. However, Jackson experiences something disturbing at Digby's house while the boys are playing a game on the internet and later at school when a serious incident involving both boys occurs the police are called in to investigate.
This a wonderful story, heart warming and often humorous with a range of well depicted characters, including Julia’s mother-in-law Nana Pam who helps the family and Dead Granny who Jackson talks to on his shoe phone. Jackson is a delightful child and it is easy to feel anxious for him as he struggles to tell the police and his mother what happened, while trying to keep his promise to Digby not to tell. Fiona Higgins’ sensitive treatment of Jackson is a reminder to all of us that there is no such thing as a 'normal' child and all children and their parents need to be treated with respect and compassion no matter what their ‘differences’. As Nana Pam says to Jackson's sister "Normal doesn't exist, darling" "It's just a cycle on the washing machine." 4.5★
With thanks to Fiona Higgins, Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a copy to read
October 15, 2020
4.5 open your heart stars
This one was terrific, and a surprise read for me! I haven’t read anything else by this Australian author, but this is her fifth book. I found her writing style so easy to read and I was completely drawn into this story and these characters. It was fun to have some Australian words thrown in that I had to go look up!
There’s a mom, Julia, that I could so relate to with a husband who travels a lot and three busy kids along with a house to organize. Her teen daughter Milla has her first boyfriend and youngest child Ruby loves to dress up. And how can you have a great relationship with your husband when he’s gone so much?
The star of the book though is Jackson, the unusual boy. He’s 11 and has never been diagnosed. This brings up some interesting dilemmas and the desire by a lot of people that you need a label/diagnosis. It made me think more about how I would feel with a child like Jackson. He sometimes struggles to find the right words to express himself and can act out and he has some physical tics. You can imagine how many of the kids at school treat him.
There’s a situation at school with another boy that goes horribly wrong and my heart just breaks for the family. The police clearly do not know how to interact with Jackson and the school is very dismissive. The whole family is impacted, and I had my fingers crossed that things would somehow work out. There was a twist at the end that I did not see coming but makes perfect sense now that I think about it! I also really liked how Julia’s relationship with her mother-in-law developed throughout the book.
I really grew to care for Jackson and hoped that he could find happiness and that his whole family could continue to embrace how special he really is, what a great character! I think if you are a fan of the book/movie “Wonder” you would also enjoy this book.
Thank you to Boldwood Books for the complimentary copy. This one is set to release 10.20.2020
This one was terrific, and a surprise read for me! I haven’t read anything else by this Australian author, but this is her fifth book. I found her writing style so easy to read and I was completely drawn into this story and these characters. It was fun to have some Australian words thrown in that I had to go look up!
There’s a mom, Julia, that I could so relate to with a husband who travels a lot and three busy kids along with a house to organize. Her teen daughter Milla has her first boyfriend and youngest child Ruby loves to dress up. And how can you have a great relationship with your husband when he’s gone so much?
The star of the book though is Jackson, the unusual boy. He’s 11 and has never been diagnosed. This brings up some interesting dilemmas and the desire by a lot of people that you need a label/diagnosis. It made me think more about how I would feel with a child like Jackson. He sometimes struggles to find the right words to express himself and can act out and he has some physical tics. You can imagine how many of the kids at school treat him.
There’s a situation at school with another boy that goes horribly wrong and my heart just breaks for the family. The police clearly do not know how to interact with Jackson and the school is very dismissive. The whole family is impacted, and I had my fingers crossed that things would somehow work out. There was a twist at the end that I did not see coming but makes perfect sense now that I think about it! I also really liked how Julia’s relationship with her mother-in-law developed throughout the book.
I really grew to care for Jackson and hoped that he could find happiness and that his whole family could continue to embrace how special he really is, what a great character! I think if you are a fan of the book/movie “Wonder” you would also enjoy this book.
Thank you to Boldwood Books for the complimentary copy. This one is set to release 10.20.2020
December 11, 2020
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
'Normal doesn’t exit darling, it's just a cycle on the washing machine'
An Unusual Boy by author Fiona Higgins is a story that is beautifully and sensitively written, I could not put this book down!
I absolutely fell in love with the character of this extraordinary little boy Jackson who has an unique perception of the world. Jackson is different to other children and for mum Julia Curtis it is a daily challenge living with his neurodiversity but she loves him dearly and so does his siblings, Milla and Ruby. Jackson’s dad Andy is overseas a lot for work and Jackson misses him terribly.
Out of the blue Jackson is involved in a disturbing incident at school, a serious crime! Is he a victim or a perpetrator?
This is a story of a mother and her struggle to hold her family together not matter what happens. It is also a story of hope and loyalty and the dangers of children being unsupervised on the internet.
Wonderful characters, an exceptional read! One of the most moving and thought-provoking books I have read.
I wish to thank NetGalley & Boldwood Books for an advanced copy in return for an honest review
'Normal doesn’t exit darling, it's just a cycle on the washing machine'
An Unusual Boy by author Fiona Higgins is a story that is beautifully and sensitively written, I could not put this book down!
I absolutely fell in love with the character of this extraordinary little boy Jackson who has an unique perception of the world. Jackson is different to other children and for mum Julia Curtis it is a daily challenge living with his neurodiversity but she loves him dearly and so does his siblings, Milla and Ruby. Jackson’s dad Andy is overseas a lot for work and Jackson misses him terribly.
Out of the blue Jackson is involved in a disturbing incident at school, a serious crime! Is he a victim or a perpetrator?
This is a story of a mother and her struggle to hold her family together not matter what happens. It is also a story of hope and loyalty and the dangers of children being unsupervised on the internet.
Wonderful characters, an exceptional read! One of the most moving and thought-provoking books I have read.
I wish to thank NetGalley & Boldwood Books for an advanced copy in return for an honest review
August 22, 2021
There was much about An Unusual Boy by Fiona Higgins that I loved and much that had me rolling my eyes in frustration.
An Unusual Boy is the story of an ordinary family, a story of love and forgiveness and the challenges that faces parents of children who are different to their sisters, brothers and classmates, Julia’s eleven year old son is an extraordinary child but when he becomes involved in a serious incident at school, Julias life is turned upside down.
The first few chapters of this novel were really gripping and I was invested in the story, I loved the characters and really got drawn into the storyline. Unfortunately there were some events in the storyline that just didn’t work for me and I couldn’t let go off. I finished the book and while I liked it, it is not one for my favorites list this year.
I listened to this one on audio and the narration was good.
March 1, 2022
An unusual boy that’s what Jackson Curtis is he suffers from Neuro Diversion which means he hasn’t got a diagnosis, he has trouble communicating with people & his mother Juliatwo other children to look after as well plus Andy her husband is always away on business.
Mills is experiencing her first boyfriend & Ruby loves to dress up, but finally Jackson has made a friend Digby at school he goes to the School toilets & what happened made me gasp… Digby told Jackson to keep his mouth shut even though he didn’t understand what was going on.
Is Digby just using Jackson’s innocence to get what he wants?
At first I was enjoying what was happening but as the prose went on it got a little dark & disturbing it shows the love Julia has for Jackson, but she also irritated me by shielding him from the world , the characters were believable even Pamela who had a small role all in all’s interesting premise but it took a turn I didn’t see coming3.5 ⭐️
Mills is experiencing her first boyfriend & Ruby loves to dress up, but finally Jackson has made a friend Digby at school he goes to the School toilets & what happened made me gasp… Digby told Jackson to keep his mouth shut even though he didn’t understand what was going on.
Is Digby just using Jackson’s innocence to get what he wants?
At first I was enjoying what was happening but as the prose went on it got a little dark & disturbing it shows the love Julia has for Jackson, but she also irritated me by shielding him from the world , the characters were believable even Pamela who had a small role all in all’s interesting premise but it took a turn I didn’t see coming3.5 ⭐️
October 17, 2020
Eleven-year-old Jackson Curtis loved his parents, Julia and Alan, and sisters, nine-year-old Ruby and fourteen-year-old Milla. But Jackson was different – neurodiverse was as much as the doctors could say – with a phenomenal memory, a stress level higher than most and a penchant for finding himself in trouble, even though it was always an accident. His headstands helped him when the beans in his head came and some coping measures his doctor had worked on, also helped.
With his new friend Digby from soccer and school, Jackson went on his first play date at Digby’s house. But things happened and Digby told Jackson to keep it a secret, then the following day at school found trouble, with the principal and police involved. Alan was in New York with his job at the time – always away when Julia needed him – which made Julie’s decision making harder. Nanna Pam, Alan’s mother, was there to help with the girls and suddenly life changed in a way no one had imagined. Julia would do anything for her children and fighting for Jackson was just a part of it.
An Unusual Boy by Aussie author Fiona Higgins is an excellent read which shows the love and devotion of a mother for her children, the struggles when things go wrong and how things escalate out of control when the full picture isn’t gathered. Jackson was an amazing child with an amazing family behind him. Especially his sisters. An Unusual Boy is a unique and heartwarming, occasionally traumatic novel which I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
With his new friend Digby from soccer and school, Jackson went on his first play date at Digby’s house. But things happened and Digby told Jackson to keep it a secret, then the following day at school found trouble, with the principal and police involved. Alan was in New York with his job at the time – always away when Julia needed him – which made Julie’s decision making harder. Nanna Pam, Alan’s mother, was there to help with the girls and suddenly life changed in a way no one had imagined. Julia would do anything for her children and fighting for Jackson was just a part of it.
An Unusual Boy by Aussie author Fiona Higgins is an excellent read which shows the love and devotion of a mother for her children, the struggles when things go wrong and how things escalate out of control when the full picture isn’t gathered. Jackson was an amazing child with an amazing family behind him. Especially his sisters. An Unusual Boy is a unique and heartwarming, occasionally traumatic novel which I thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2020
5☆ A Thought Provoking, Poignant and Unforgettable Read!
An Unusual Boy is a story that not only got under my skin, it was poignant, thought provoking, a roller coaster of emotion and quiet frankly an unforgettable read!
This is the first time when writing a review I'm stumped at what to write....and believe me it's nothing to do with anything wrong it's because this book was so brilliant I don't know where to start. But what I do know is that you need to read this book for yourself!!
I adore reading books where disabilities are featured, and I've watched many a crime tv show and some not dissimilar to this story.
But what I will say is this book is in no way predictable, Higgins made this book come to life.
I could feel Jackson's Mum (Julia) anguish and heartbreak trying to find the truth whilst fighting.
At times Jackson's quirks and innocence made me want to hug him.
As I said before this book is a roller coaster of emotion and every bit deserving of 5☆ I would give 10☆ if I could! An Unusual Boy is a book that will stay with me for a very long time!
Just one last thing, the book cover is absolutely stunning, in some ways haunting, and draws you in. I loved it!
I don't think I have anything left to say except You Need To Read This Unputdownable Book ASAP!!!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/1...
An Unusual Boy is a story that not only got under my skin, it was poignant, thought provoking, a roller coaster of emotion and quiet frankly an unforgettable read!
This is the first time when writing a review I'm stumped at what to write....and believe me it's nothing to do with anything wrong it's because this book was so brilliant I don't know where to start. But what I do know is that you need to read this book for yourself!!
I adore reading books where disabilities are featured, and I've watched many a crime tv show and some not dissimilar to this story.
But what I will say is this book is in no way predictable, Higgins made this book come to life.
I could feel Jackson's Mum (Julia) anguish and heartbreak trying to find the truth whilst fighting.
At times Jackson's quirks and innocence made me want to hug him.
As I said before this book is a roller coaster of emotion and every bit deserving of 5☆ I would give 10☆ if I could! An Unusual Boy is a book that will stay with me for a very long time!
Just one last thing, the book cover is absolutely stunning, in some ways haunting, and draws you in. I loved it!
I don't think I have anything left to say except You Need To Read This Unputdownable Book ASAP!!!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/1...
September 1, 2020
“Every morning when I wake up, my beans are flying around inside me like popcorn in a pot. They bounce me out of bed and make me want to jump and dance and do a hundred push-ups, even when the rest of the world is sleeping.”
An Unusual Boy is the fourth novel by Australian author, Fiona Higgins. Eleven-year-old Jackson Curtis is a very special boy. He’s also a challenge for his family, but they love him and they’re (mostly) patient with all the tics, quirks, habits, and the routines that seem to follow an inexplicable logic. His little sister likes having a different brother because he’s never boring; she dubs his tendency to do handstands in public places “café yoga”. The family tries to “focus on the one thing we can control: our responses to Jackson’s behaviours.”
Jackson is smart (maybe too smart for the class teacher at his new school?) and he likes chess and soccer, but hasn’t made any real friends because the kids think he’s strange. Except April Kennedy, who’s shy and kind, and Miss Marion, with her rainbow hair and funny socks, who teaches dance.
He’s excited to have a play date with Digby Bianco after soccer on Mother’s Day, but it’s not quite what he imagined, and leaves him unsettled. And the next day at school, something happens that makes Jackson feel very uncomfortable, but he’s promised Digby he won’t tell, and one of their family rules is that they don’t break promises.
Suddenly, the police are involved and Julia Curtis, music therapist and busy mother of three, has to handle everything in the absence of her workaholic husband, temporarily overseas. The fact that “Jackson has always been so literal and linear in his thinking” and his inability to quickly articulate exactly what has occurred (“when people talk a lot, my brain gets glued up. And sometimes when it gets really clogged, I start seeing things in black and white”) works against him, seeing him ostracised.
Julia finds she must push past her exhaustion to draw on the well of strength and inventiveness she didn't know she had. As the school mothers jump to conclusions and close ranks, Julia is surprised and heartened by support from unexpected quarters. Her usually-disapproving mother-in-law becomes a fierce supporter of her unusual grandson; and the soccer coach and dance teacher remain stalwart in Jackson’s corner.
Higgins effortlessly evokes this familiar setting, her characters are completely believable, and their dialogue that of those people we encounter on the school run, at the supermarket, in the café. Jackson is an utter delight: who could fail to fall in love with a boy who asks “Is time… heavy or light?” When things start to go pear-shaped, it’s hard not to feel anxious for this remarkable boy. It’s almost a privilege to dip into the lives of these characters, and investment in them is well rewarded with humour and wise words.
If this is a cautionary tale about the dangers to children of unsupervised internet access, then it is equally an admonition to avoid xenophobia of any sort: race, colour, creed or simply a different way of thinking, an alternate perception of the world. The common compulsion to “label” is countered by Julia: “Sometimes labels just put special kids in boxes. Sometimes they just give adults an excuse to stop thinking.”
A totally credible tale, funny, thought-provoking, heart-warming and uplifting, contained within a stunning cover designed by Becky Glibbery: this has to be Fiona Higgins’s best yet!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Boldwood Books
An Unusual Boy is the fourth novel by Australian author, Fiona Higgins. Eleven-year-old Jackson Curtis is a very special boy. He’s also a challenge for his family, but they love him and they’re (mostly) patient with all the tics, quirks, habits, and the routines that seem to follow an inexplicable logic. His little sister likes having a different brother because he’s never boring; she dubs his tendency to do handstands in public places “café yoga”. The family tries to “focus on the one thing we can control: our responses to Jackson’s behaviours.”
Jackson is smart (maybe too smart for the class teacher at his new school?) and he likes chess and soccer, but hasn’t made any real friends because the kids think he’s strange. Except April Kennedy, who’s shy and kind, and Miss Marion, with her rainbow hair and funny socks, who teaches dance.
He’s excited to have a play date with Digby Bianco after soccer on Mother’s Day, but it’s not quite what he imagined, and leaves him unsettled. And the next day at school, something happens that makes Jackson feel very uncomfortable, but he’s promised Digby he won’t tell, and one of their family rules is that they don’t break promises.
Suddenly, the police are involved and Julia Curtis, music therapist and busy mother of three, has to handle everything in the absence of her workaholic husband, temporarily overseas. The fact that “Jackson has always been so literal and linear in his thinking” and his inability to quickly articulate exactly what has occurred (“when people talk a lot, my brain gets glued up. And sometimes when it gets really clogged, I start seeing things in black and white”) works against him, seeing him ostracised.
Julia finds she must push past her exhaustion to draw on the well of strength and inventiveness she didn't know she had. As the school mothers jump to conclusions and close ranks, Julia is surprised and heartened by support from unexpected quarters. Her usually-disapproving mother-in-law becomes a fierce supporter of her unusual grandson; and the soccer coach and dance teacher remain stalwart in Jackson’s corner.
Higgins effortlessly evokes this familiar setting, her characters are completely believable, and their dialogue that of those people we encounter on the school run, at the supermarket, in the café. Jackson is an utter delight: who could fail to fall in love with a boy who asks “Is time… heavy or light?” When things start to go pear-shaped, it’s hard not to feel anxious for this remarkable boy. It’s almost a privilege to dip into the lives of these characters, and investment in them is well rewarded with humour and wise words.
If this is a cautionary tale about the dangers to children of unsupervised internet access, then it is equally an admonition to avoid xenophobia of any sort: race, colour, creed or simply a different way of thinking, an alternate perception of the world. The common compulsion to “label” is countered by Julia: “Sometimes labels just put special kids in boxes. Sometimes they just give adults an excuse to stop thinking.”
A totally credible tale, funny, thought-provoking, heart-warming and uplifting, contained within a stunning cover designed by Becky Glibbery: this has to be Fiona Higgins’s best yet!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Boldwood Books
October 21, 2020
An Unusual Boy is a heart-wrenching story about a family struggling to keep from falling apart.
Julia is trying to run her family of five single handedly since her husband is overseas with work a large amount of the time. This can be stressful on a marriage at the best of times without the added burden of a child with a neurological problem.
I have to admit I was scared to read this book but I was also scared not to read it. We have our own unusual boy and although he is only four I worry about the life that is ahead of him. I could totally empathise with the Curtis family and the long road they have already travelled to get Jackson to the age of eleven. It was easy for me to imagine the years of doctors appointments, tests of all sorts and endless speech therapy.
So many reviewers stated that they fell in love with Jackson however in reality how many people can even tolerate someone else's child running circles around the table at a cafe or hitting out because the words won't come.
I read this book in one day and I cried from beginning to end. The tears are welling as I write this review.
An Unusual Boy is a book everyone should read. Mothers will resonate with Julia and her busy life, her constant tired state and always wondering if she is getting it right.
Mother-in-Laws often get a bad rap in books so I was pleased to see Pamela step in and help out and for Julia to see her MIL in a new light.
I loved Miss Marion and I think it takes someone very special to see something more to a child than their hyperactivity and to take it and turn it into a skill. That's the magic that some teachers possess! Every child has something special inside them.
An Unusual Boy is a story about acceptance, inclusion, diversity and not judging.
*I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Julia is trying to run her family of five single handedly since her husband is overseas with work a large amount of the time. This can be stressful on a marriage at the best of times without the added burden of a child with a neurological problem.
I have to admit I was scared to read this book but I was also scared not to read it. We have our own unusual boy and although he is only four I worry about the life that is ahead of him. I could totally empathise with the Curtis family and the long road they have already travelled to get Jackson to the age of eleven. It was easy for me to imagine the years of doctors appointments, tests of all sorts and endless speech therapy.
So many reviewers stated that they fell in love with Jackson however in reality how many people can even tolerate someone else's child running circles around the table at a cafe or hitting out because the words won't come.
"Other parents have been less forgiving, including at Jackson's old school where we were progressively shunned by parents variously irritated or disturbed by Jackson's unusual behavior."
I read this book in one day and I cried from beginning to end. The tears are welling as I write this review.
An Unusual Boy is a book everyone should read. Mothers will resonate with Julia and her busy life, her constant tired state and always wondering if she is getting it right.
Mother-in-Laws often get a bad rap in books so I was pleased to see Pamela step in and help out and for Julia to see her MIL in a new light.
I loved Miss Marion and I think it takes someone very special to see something more to a child than their hyperactivity and to take it and turn it into a skill. That's the magic that some teachers possess! Every child has something special inside them.
An Unusual Boy is a story about acceptance, inclusion, diversity and not judging.
*I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley
October 22, 2020
Jackson is an 11 year old boy with a neurodiverse disorder, but not a 'label' that neatly explains his behaviour. Julia is Jackson's mum, she is also mother of Milla who is 14 and Ruby who is 9. For Julia life is hard, her husband Andy has let work take him away more and more and this seems to align itself with his intolerance of Jackson's behaviour. Having moved to a newer and more socially acceptable suburb of Sydney (Andy's choice), Julia is struggling to make new friends and deal with her ever present and perfect mother-in-law Pamela, having lost her own parents in a car crash years earlier.
The story is told from two perspectives, that of Julia and that of Jackson. This was very clever and allowed you to understand what they were thinking and why they were misunderstanding each other and those around them.
I shed quite a few tears during this, parenting is hard, but I cannot imagine having to raise a child who is viewed by those around you as 'unusual'. To bear the judgements and opinions of others who have no idea must be soul crushing. It brings home even more strongly the need for people to be kind, compassionate and always open minded.
I was utterly gripped by the storyline and dreaded each moment as it occurred. A beautifully told story of heartbreak, family and love. The characters are just wonderful and the betrayal of one of these character really sucked the air out my lungs!
Thank you Boldworld Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
The story is told from two perspectives, that of Julia and that of Jackson. This was very clever and allowed you to understand what they were thinking and why they were misunderstanding each other and those around them.
I shed quite a few tears during this, parenting is hard, but I cannot imagine having to raise a child who is viewed by those around you as 'unusual'. To bear the judgements and opinions of others who have no idea must be soul crushing. It brings home even more strongly the need for people to be kind, compassionate and always open minded.
I was utterly gripped by the storyline and dreaded each moment as it occurred. A beautifully told story of heartbreak, family and love. The characters are just wonderful and the betrayal of one of these character really sucked the air out my lungs!
Thank you Boldworld Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
October 18, 2020
4++ Stars!!! Rounded up ~ I give very few 5 star ratings!!!
Story is told from the POV of Jackson and Julia his mother.
Eleven year old Jackson Curtis is the middle child with a fourteen-year old older sister Milla and Ruby a nine-year old younger sister. He has a special love for his grandparents ~living and dead. He talks to his dead maternal grandparents via his shoe phone. Hmmm
Jackson is described as an unusual boy. He has an amazing memory yet has difficulties in expressing the correct words to communicate. He is literal and linear in his thinking~
e.g. when the dance teacher states ~ April and Jackson have a special chemistry on stage ~
Jackson thinks ‘No! I’ve never done any chemistry experiments with April’.
Jackson is labelled by doctors as “neurodiverse” which basically means doctors haven’t found the exact diagnose, other than a social disability.
(I looked up this word and it actually is a real diagnose ~ love that an e-reader will go to
Wikipedia in the blink of an eye!)
His family recently moved to a new suburb and Julia, Jackson’s mother is pleased that he has a new friend as Jackson has difficulties making friends. Digby is a classmate who is 2 years older and loves to play games on the internet. After soccer practice, Jackson is once again invited to play an internet game at Digby’s home; he is so disturbed by what he sees that he actually runs from Digby’s house. He runs to school where the dance team is practicing and he has a new role with the team. His mother is frantic; she has no idea where he went. Jackson was fearful of telling his parents he was on a dance team, so never told them.
Mom is relieved when she finds him, however the situation at Digby’s home isn‘t immediately solved.
Soon afterward, in science class Jackson mispronounces a word and says ‘urinal’ and the class laughed. Teacher doesn’t find it funny and send him off to the restroom (in the story it is referred to as ‘toilet’) Digby follows him and on the way talks Jackson into playing a trick on a younger female schoolmate in the girl’s toilet. Yep this ends up bad with Jackson being investigated by the authorities and he is not able to use the correct words to say what really happened.
Note: Half way in my heart was breaking. I couldn’t decide to cry or throw my e-reader across the room!
This was an emotional ride. I believe you, too, will fall in love with Jackson.
Great read truly a treasure! Additionally I was looking forward to the “Acknowledgements” as I knew Ms. Higgins did a lot of research on this!!
BTW: Nanna Pam is correct with her statement ‘Normal doesn’t exist. It’s just a cycle on the washing machine’.
Want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books this early release granted to me in exchange for an honest professional review. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Publishing Release Date October 20, 2020
Story is told from the POV of Jackson and Julia his mother.
Eleven year old Jackson Curtis is the middle child with a fourteen-year old older sister Milla and Ruby a nine-year old younger sister. He has a special love for his grandparents ~living and dead. He talks to his dead maternal grandparents via his shoe phone. Hmmm
Jackson is described as an unusual boy. He has an amazing memory yet has difficulties in expressing the correct words to communicate. He is literal and linear in his thinking~
e.g. when the dance teacher states ~ April and Jackson have a special chemistry on stage ~
Jackson thinks ‘No! I’ve never done any chemistry experiments with April’.
Jackson is labelled by doctors as “neurodiverse” which basically means doctors haven’t found the exact diagnose, other than a social disability.
(I looked up this word and it actually is a real diagnose ~ love that an e-reader will go to
Wikipedia in the blink of an eye!)
His family recently moved to a new suburb and Julia, Jackson’s mother is pleased that he has a new friend as Jackson has difficulties making friends. Digby is a classmate who is 2 years older and loves to play games on the internet. After soccer practice, Jackson is once again invited to play an internet game at Digby’s home; he is so disturbed by what he sees that he actually runs from Digby’s house. He runs to school where the dance team is practicing and he has a new role with the team. His mother is frantic; she has no idea where he went. Jackson was fearful of telling his parents he was on a dance team, so never told them.
Mom is relieved when she finds him, however the situation at Digby’s home isn‘t immediately solved.
Soon afterward, in science class Jackson mispronounces a word and says ‘urinal’ and the class laughed. Teacher doesn’t find it funny and send him off to the restroom (in the story it is referred to as ‘toilet’) Digby follows him and on the way talks Jackson into playing a trick on a younger female schoolmate in the girl’s toilet. Yep this ends up bad with Jackson being investigated by the authorities and he is not able to use the correct words to say what really happened.
Note: Half way in my heart was breaking. I couldn’t decide to cry or throw my e-reader across the room!
This was an emotional ride. I believe you, too, will fall in love with Jackson.
Great read truly a treasure! Additionally I was looking forward to the “Acknowledgements” as I knew Ms. Higgins did a lot of research on this!!
BTW: Nanna Pam is correct with her statement ‘Normal doesn’t exist. It’s just a cycle on the washing machine’.
Want to thank NetGalley and Boldwood Books this early release granted to me in exchange for an honest professional review. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Publishing Release Date October 20, 2020
July 1, 2022
This book had it all. The perfect description of a harried mother, in the perfect description of the not so perfect life. Real life was portrayed here, important social issues such as mental health, appropriate internet usage for children, alcoholism, grooming of children by paedophiles, single parenting.
Jackson is one of three of the Curtis offspring in a close and loving family who live in the northern beaches of Sydney. I love reading about areas I’ve been to.
All the children are very accepting of Jackson’s idiosyncrasies; he is known to be what is neurodiverse. He is to me what appears to be hypersensitive to stimuli such as noise, light and too much screen time. This is really had for harried mum Julia, who is dealing with all this while her distant husband is traveling heavily for his marketing position, travelling overseas. She doesn’t’ have much help, and she only has a fractured at best relationship with her mother-in-law.
She does well with what she has, making her kids feel loved and appreciated, even eating the burnt pancakes, and drinking tea on mother’s day morning, even Jackson does this with her, munching away on his sister’s pancakes. They have family rules, and the kids mostly follow these.
Jackson does not make friends easily and has formed a friendship with a boy at his new school which goes awry. Innocently literal, Jackson is steadfastly honest.
Fast forward to an incident in the girls toilets at school and Jackson and his family are the pariahs of town. Jackson is removed from school while evidence is gathered. Julia is at her wits end, relying heavily upon soccer coach who keeps saving the day.
Characters loved and despised, Jackson’s sisters Ruby and Mila are beautiful. Scenes of Ruby tottering and dancing (I want to use the word flounce here I think!) about while saying loving things, and Mila the poet of the family recognises Jackson’s differences in a protective ‘rainbow’ accepting way. So sweet is the relationship 14-year-old Milla forms with a new boyfriend, the surfer who work at a surf shop part time. He is the humble glue and support this family needs while dealing with the extra pressures Jackson’s uniqueness places on this already floundering suburban family.
No one wants Jackson to need to conform to ‘normal’, but the treatment faced by this loving family are hard to watch. By the end of this special story, the families rules have been forcibly amended and tweaked. Friendships formed and old ones reinforced. This is a quality book with a special message, and I so recommend this book. Fiona Higgins is a special writer and a lovely lady to boot.
Jackson is one of three of the Curtis offspring in a close and loving family who live in the northern beaches of Sydney. I love reading about areas I’ve been to.
All the children are very accepting of Jackson’s idiosyncrasies; he is known to be what is neurodiverse. He is to me what appears to be hypersensitive to stimuli such as noise, light and too much screen time. This is really had for harried mum Julia, who is dealing with all this while her distant husband is traveling heavily for his marketing position, travelling overseas. She doesn’t’ have much help, and she only has a fractured at best relationship with her mother-in-law.
She does well with what she has, making her kids feel loved and appreciated, even eating the burnt pancakes, and drinking tea on mother’s day morning, even Jackson does this with her, munching away on his sister’s pancakes. They have family rules, and the kids mostly follow these.
Jackson does not make friends easily and has formed a friendship with a boy at his new school which goes awry. Innocently literal, Jackson is steadfastly honest.
Fast forward to an incident in the girls toilets at school and Jackson and his family are the pariahs of town. Jackson is removed from school while evidence is gathered. Julia is at her wits end, relying heavily upon soccer coach who keeps saving the day.
Characters loved and despised, Jackson’s sisters Ruby and Mila are beautiful. Scenes of Ruby tottering and dancing (I want to use the word flounce here I think!) about while saying loving things, and Mila the poet of the family recognises Jackson’s differences in a protective ‘rainbow’ accepting way. So sweet is the relationship 14-year-old Milla forms with a new boyfriend, the surfer who work at a surf shop part time. He is the humble glue and support this family needs while dealing with the extra pressures Jackson’s uniqueness places on this already floundering suburban family.
No one wants Jackson to need to conform to ‘normal’, but the treatment faced by this loving family are hard to watch. By the end of this special story, the families rules have been forcibly amended and tweaked. Friendships formed and old ones reinforced. This is a quality book with a special message, and I so recommend this book. Fiona Higgins is a special writer and a lovely lady to boot.
January 31, 2021
*www.onewomansbbr.wordpress.com
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
**4.5 stars**
An Unusual Boy by Fiona Higgins. (2020).
An extraordinary boy. The mother who loves him. The fight of their lives.
Julia is a busy mother of three, with a husband often away for work, an ever-present mother-in-law, a career, and a house that needs doing up. Her only son, Jackson, is different; different to his sisters, different to his classmates, different to everyone. Bringing up a child who is different isn't easy. Then one day, something happens that changes everything for not only Jackson, but for every member in his family. Julia faces the fight of her life to save her unusual boy from a world set up for 'normal'.
I've read the author's previous novels and enjoyed them so I was looking forward to this one. It did not disappoint at all, in fact I'd say it's her best yet. It does explore some serious themes, and could be triggering for some readers. Jackson is described as "neurodiverse" which to my understanding meant he was different mentally to the average person however a formal diagnosis couldn't be found as he didn't fit under any particular condition/syndrome/label. When a serious accusation is made against him, all hell breaks loose for him and his family. I really appreciated that half of the book was narrated by Jackson; this let the reader experience the world from his point of view.
Overall this was an extremely well-written, emotionally charged and gripping read. Highly recommend.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
**4.5 stars**
An Unusual Boy by Fiona Higgins. (2020).
An extraordinary boy. The mother who loves him. The fight of their lives.
Julia is a busy mother of three, with a husband often away for work, an ever-present mother-in-law, a career, and a house that needs doing up. Her only son, Jackson, is different; different to his sisters, different to his classmates, different to everyone. Bringing up a child who is different isn't easy. Then one day, something happens that changes everything for not only Jackson, but for every member in his family. Julia faces the fight of her life to save her unusual boy from a world set up for 'normal'.
I've read the author's previous novels and enjoyed them so I was looking forward to this one. It did not disappoint at all, in fact I'd say it's her best yet. It does explore some serious themes, and could be triggering for some readers. Jackson is described as "neurodiverse" which to my understanding meant he was different mentally to the average person however a formal diagnosis couldn't be found as he didn't fit under any particular condition/syndrome/label. When a serious accusation is made against him, all hell breaks loose for him and his family. I really appreciated that half of the book was narrated by Jackson; this let the reader experience the world from his point of view.
Overall this was an extremely well-written, emotionally charged and gripping read. Highly recommend.
September 21, 2020
An Unusual Boy is the gripping tale of an exceptional, misunderstood child.It highlights the dark underworld of the internet and the way our systems are set up to serve our least vulnerable members, rather than our most. I found myself glued to this book from start to finish. While reading it, you can’t help but become Jackson’s mother, and the mother of every child who is misunderstood in our society. This book will get people talking for sure.
January 5, 2021
I wanted to carry on reading this book but things got in the way last September with over commitments so I picked this book book a couple of days ago and finished it in a flash. Such a well written book with a subject matter that really keeps your attention, not only that, you’re emotions are going to be wrecked. I kid you not when I say how all over the place I was with my feelings.
I’m with the majority, it’s a book you shouldn’t miss.
I’m with the majority, it’s a book you shouldn’t miss.
October 3, 2025
This is one of those books that will stay with you forever. The characters in the book are so realistic. I empathized with his mother. I wanted to protect Jackson as well.
There are some situations in this book which are a shock to the system. The author has done a brilliant job in making you connect with the book.
This is a book about relationships, being both family and friendships. Some toxic and some supportive.
Highly recommend.
There are some situations in this book which are a shock to the system. The author has done a brilliant job in making you connect with the book.
This is a book about relationships, being both family and friendships. Some toxic and some supportive.
Highly recommend.
August 8, 2021
Wowzers! What a great read. Full on and enjoyable at the same time.
A bit slow starting, but Jackson is an unusual and amazing boy. The narrative switches back and forth from Jackson to his Mum Julia. Jackson is 11 and has an older and younger sister and a dad who is away for work heaps.
The crux of the story is regarding an alledged incident in a school toilet and the entire family is thrown into severe crisis mode, especially Julia. Having spent 50 years of my life working with children and young people, I have experienced the delicate nature of what can happen to people, alledged or actual. People are quick to judge and condemn. Jackson is not the only one affected, but his entire family suffer greatly. But there are also wonderful support people there to help them all.
This book hit me hard. It was so well written and handled by Fiona Higgins, it always makes it better when it takes place in a environment I know well, my home town of Sydney.
I loved everything about this book, even if it gets a wee bit smaltzy at the end. Highly recommended.
A bit slow starting, but Jackson is an unusual and amazing boy. The narrative switches back and forth from Jackson to his Mum Julia. Jackson is 11 and has an older and younger sister and a dad who is away for work heaps.
The crux of the story is regarding an alledged incident in a school toilet and the entire family is thrown into severe crisis mode, especially Julia. Having spent 50 years of my life working with children and young people, I have experienced the delicate nature of what can happen to people, alledged or actual. People are quick to judge and condemn. Jackson is not the only one affected, but his entire family suffer greatly. But there are also wonderful support people there to help them all.
This book hit me hard. It was so well written and handled by Fiona Higgins, it always makes it better when it takes place in a environment I know well, my home town of Sydney.
I loved everything about this book, even if it gets a wee bit smaltzy at the end. Highly recommended.
October 18, 2020
Julia Curtis is a mother of three. Her husband often works away from home. Her mother-in-law is always present. Her fourteen year old daughter has fallen in love for the first time and her youngest, Ruby is just nine. But her son, eleven year old Jackson is different. Bringing Jackson up isn't always easy. On Monday morning, Jackson follows his new friend into the school toilets. What happens inside changes everything; not only for Jackson but for the whole family.
Despite this book having some dark themes, it's still quite an easy book to read. I was pulled into the story from the first few chapters. There werre parts that did drag oit a bit but overall, the pace is steady. I liked that we were told the story from Julia and Jacksons perspectives. This story will tug at your heartstrings.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldworldBooks and the author #FionaHiggins for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Despite this book having some dark themes, it's still quite an easy book to read. I was pulled into the story from the first few chapters. There werre parts that did drag oit a bit but overall, the pace is steady. I liked that we were told the story from Julia and Jacksons perspectives. This story will tug at your heartstrings.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldworldBooks and the author #FionaHiggins for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2020
‘We’re not a normal family, are we?’
Meet Julia Curtis. Her husband Andy is often overseas for work, so most of the parenting of their three children falls on Julia’s shoulders. Five months ago, they moved from Erskineville to Queenscliff, to a house that needs doing up. Milla is fourteen, Jackson is eleven and Ruby is nine.
Jackson sees the world quite differently from his sisters and although he’s been described as ‘neurodiverse’ he does not have a definitive diagnosis.
The story shifts between Julia and Jackson. From Julia’s perspective, we see the challenges of parenting, of trying to balance the quite different needs of her children while trying to keep the family intact. From Jackson’s viewpoint, we have a unique perspective of the world. Julia is happy when Jackson makes friends with Digby from his soccer team, but Digby has his own challenges. And an incident in the school toilets changes everything. Different accounts of an incident lead to Jackson being removed from school and while finding the truth is important, it will be challenging.
There are several different strands to this story and I really enjoyed the way in which Ms Higgins draws them together. While Jackson and Julia are at the centre of the story, Milla and Ruby are well defined as is Nanna Pam (Julia’s mother-in-law).
I liked this novel for a number of reasons but particularly because of the way in which Jackson and his world are depicted.
‘Normal doesn’t exist, darling. It’s just a cycle on the washing machine.’
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Meet Julia Curtis. Her husband Andy is often overseas for work, so most of the parenting of their three children falls on Julia’s shoulders. Five months ago, they moved from Erskineville to Queenscliff, to a house that needs doing up. Milla is fourteen, Jackson is eleven and Ruby is nine.
Jackson sees the world quite differently from his sisters and although he’s been described as ‘neurodiverse’ he does not have a definitive diagnosis.
The story shifts between Julia and Jackson. From Julia’s perspective, we see the challenges of parenting, of trying to balance the quite different needs of her children while trying to keep the family intact. From Jackson’s viewpoint, we have a unique perspective of the world. Julia is happy when Jackson makes friends with Digby from his soccer team, but Digby has his own challenges. And an incident in the school toilets changes everything. Different accounts of an incident lead to Jackson being removed from school and while finding the truth is important, it will be challenging.
There are several different strands to this story and I really enjoyed the way in which Ms Higgins draws them together. While Jackson and Julia are at the centre of the story, Milla and Ruby are well defined as is Nanna Pam (Julia’s mother-in-law).
I liked this novel for a number of reasons but particularly because of the way in which Jackson and his world are depicted.
‘Normal doesn’t exist, darling. It’s just a cycle on the washing machine.’
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
November 9, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
‘Over the years, I’ve come to accept that Jackson’s inner life is largely impenetrable to me. It’s a common reality, I’m told, for parents living with ‘neurodiversity’ – a catch-all term used to describe children who don’t conform to convenient diagnostic categories.’
Dedicated to a friend from school, Fiona Higgins draws on this friendship to support her latest novel, An Unusual Boy. Heartfelt, personal and stimulating, An Unusual Boy is a compelling domestic drama, centered on family, parenting, misunderstandings and behaviour constructions. The latest tale from Australian contemporary fiction novelist Fiona Higgins is compelling and heart wrenching.
An Unusual Boy follows an eleven year old child named Jackson, who is different to children of his own age. Jackson has no set diagnosis, but Jackson’s parents know that he is very unusual. As the book progresses we see just how much Jackson struggles to communicate and behave in expected ways. But Jackson has some gifted traits in terms of his memory and intelligence. Many outside of his family struggle to understand Jackson, but his devoted mother Julia does all she can – within her means. However, as a hardworking mother of three, balancing employment with parenting, life proves to be a struggle from Julia. Things take a turn for worst for Jackson and his family when Jackson is blamed for a terrible incident. The fallout from this incident has far reaching implications for Jackson, his mother, their family and the wider community. Jackson will need society to be a lot more compassionate and understanding of the way he views his world, as he faces an uphill battle to free himself from the accusations that have placed on him.
Being a parent is tough. For the lead character of An Unusual Boy, Julia Curtis, life comes with both its challenges and rewards as the parent of three children. While her husband and father of her three children works away, Julia juggles the demands of part time employment and the care of her children. One of her children is a very different child, outside the norms of society, who issues Julia with daily problems to overcome due to his odd behaviour. With a lack of support and an official diagnosis from health professionals, Julia does all she can to support her spirited child. From the onset, I developed a very strong sense of empathy and understanding for Julia. In my professional life I have encountered children like Jackson, a child on the fringes, defying any labels and largely misunderstood by the general public. Fiona Higgins does a very good job of channeling the innermost thoughts, feelings, actions, behaviours and emotions of a child of this inclination. We develop a sense of sympathy for Jackson, along with his mother. The most overwhelming feeling I got from my interactions with Jackson was that the world needed to show a lot more openness, as well as empathy for those who we consider to be different.
Fiona Higgins is able to successfully inhabit the mindset of both a stressed parent and an eleven year old boy. Both voices came across with sincerity and clarity. Likewise, there are some superb members of the support cast that draw out the very best and worst in humanity. From gentle souls such as Jackson’s dance teacher, through to the authorities assigned to the resulting police case that forms the bulk of this novel’s direction, Higgins covers all bases. I was impressed by the characterisation in this novel, I really felt like I reached inside the hearts and minds of each protagonist featured in An Unusual Boy.
Much of the novel is focused on Jackson, the titular character of this tale. We learn of Jackson’s personal joys, remarkable achievements and his struggles, all of which are portrayed extremely well by Fiona Higgins. The plot takes a different turn and it morphs into a domestic drama, with a hint of mystery, following a terrible act involving Jackson. I won’t go into any great detail regarding this situation, but it seemed to flip the narrative in a very intriguing and heartbreaking direction. With moments of misunderstanding, confusion, crossed lines, admissions, blame, defense, support and shocking revelations, An Unusual Boy, will definitely incite some thought provoking reactions, especially around the concepts of ‘normal’ and ‘inclusion.’ An Unusual Boy is a book you will want to discuss with others and if you are part of a book club, it would make a great pick for your next meet.
Told compassionately through the eyes of both a devoted parent and a child on the fringes of society, An Unusual Boy is a well written and considerate tale from Fiona Higgins.
*I wish to thank Boldwood Books for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
An Unusual Boy is book #116 the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
‘Over the years, I’ve come to accept that Jackson’s inner life is largely impenetrable to me. It’s a common reality, I’m told, for parents living with ‘neurodiversity’ – a catch-all term used to describe children who don’t conform to convenient diagnostic categories.’
Dedicated to a friend from school, Fiona Higgins draws on this friendship to support her latest novel, An Unusual Boy. Heartfelt, personal and stimulating, An Unusual Boy is a compelling domestic drama, centered on family, parenting, misunderstandings and behaviour constructions. The latest tale from Australian contemporary fiction novelist Fiona Higgins is compelling and heart wrenching.
An Unusual Boy follows an eleven year old child named Jackson, who is different to children of his own age. Jackson has no set diagnosis, but Jackson’s parents know that he is very unusual. As the book progresses we see just how much Jackson struggles to communicate and behave in expected ways. But Jackson has some gifted traits in terms of his memory and intelligence. Many outside of his family struggle to understand Jackson, but his devoted mother Julia does all she can – within her means. However, as a hardworking mother of three, balancing employment with parenting, life proves to be a struggle from Julia. Things take a turn for worst for Jackson and his family when Jackson is blamed for a terrible incident. The fallout from this incident has far reaching implications for Jackson, his mother, their family and the wider community. Jackson will need society to be a lot more compassionate and understanding of the way he views his world, as he faces an uphill battle to free himself from the accusations that have placed on him.
Being a parent is tough. For the lead character of An Unusual Boy, Julia Curtis, life comes with both its challenges and rewards as the parent of three children. While her husband and father of her three children works away, Julia juggles the demands of part time employment and the care of her children. One of her children is a very different child, outside the norms of society, who issues Julia with daily problems to overcome due to his odd behaviour. With a lack of support and an official diagnosis from health professionals, Julia does all she can to support her spirited child. From the onset, I developed a very strong sense of empathy and understanding for Julia. In my professional life I have encountered children like Jackson, a child on the fringes, defying any labels and largely misunderstood by the general public. Fiona Higgins does a very good job of channeling the innermost thoughts, feelings, actions, behaviours and emotions of a child of this inclination. We develop a sense of sympathy for Jackson, along with his mother. The most overwhelming feeling I got from my interactions with Jackson was that the world needed to show a lot more openness, as well as empathy for those who we consider to be different.
Fiona Higgins is able to successfully inhabit the mindset of both a stressed parent and an eleven year old boy. Both voices came across with sincerity and clarity. Likewise, there are some superb members of the support cast that draw out the very best and worst in humanity. From gentle souls such as Jackson’s dance teacher, through to the authorities assigned to the resulting police case that forms the bulk of this novel’s direction, Higgins covers all bases. I was impressed by the characterisation in this novel, I really felt like I reached inside the hearts and minds of each protagonist featured in An Unusual Boy.
Much of the novel is focused on Jackson, the titular character of this tale. We learn of Jackson’s personal joys, remarkable achievements and his struggles, all of which are portrayed extremely well by Fiona Higgins. The plot takes a different turn and it morphs into a domestic drama, with a hint of mystery, following a terrible act involving Jackson. I won’t go into any great detail regarding this situation, but it seemed to flip the narrative in a very intriguing and heartbreaking direction. With moments of misunderstanding, confusion, crossed lines, admissions, blame, defense, support and shocking revelations, An Unusual Boy, will definitely incite some thought provoking reactions, especially around the concepts of ‘normal’ and ‘inclusion.’ An Unusual Boy is a book you will want to discuss with others and if you are part of a book club, it would make a great pick for your next meet.
Told compassionately through the eyes of both a devoted parent and a child on the fringes of society, An Unusual Boy is a well written and considerate tale from Fiona Higgins.
*I wish to thank Boldwood Books for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
An Unusual Boy is book #116 the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
October 19, 2020
I went into this novel not knowing much about it and found that it was a fabulous read, I do like it when you stumble upon a great and original read. It was a novel full of heart, of differences, of family and friends, a story with a warning about online gaming and lack of supervision of our children.
This is a novel about an atypical 'neurodiverse' 11-year old boy, Jackson, and his atypical family and an incident that turns their lives upside down. I found it hard to put this down. My heart was in my throat several times throughout when the incidents with his 'friend' Digby occurred and when he has to deal with the policewoman. Fiona has done a wonderful job of portraying these characters, especially Jackson, who I fell in love with from the start. What a wonderful young boy, but I could see and understand the toll it took on his parents at times, trying to understand his differences. I loved learning about the way Jackson's mind worked and how this leads to some of the traumatic things that happened to him in this novel. I work with people with special needs and it is always good to get an insight into some of the issues they may have.
Jackson's sisters, Milla and Ruby, were both amazing the way they were with him and I loved his younger sister who came out with some great comments. His dad Andy, didn't know how to deal with him, which I found sad, but understandable, while his mum Julia, did everything she could to try and understand and work with his behaviours. I thought the way the relationship with Nana Pam changed between herself and Julia was really lovely and just shows you that when your chips are down, it can often be the people you least expect who have your back. There are a couple of secondary characters who were a wonderful support to Jackson and his family, but there were also characters in the background who because of Jackson's differences, jumped to conclusions and made things worse for them.
I highly recommend this novel if you are looking for a heartwarming read dealing with some important issues.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with a digital copy in return for an honest review.
This is a novel about an atypical 'neurodiverse' 11-year old boy, Jackson, and his atypical family and an incident that turns their lives upside down. I found it hard to put this down. My heart was in my throat several times throughout when the incidents with his 'friend' Digby occurred and when he has to deal with the policewoman. Fiona has done a wonderful job of portraying these characters, especially Jackson, who I fell in love with from the start. What a wonderful young boy, but I could see and understand the toll it took on his parents at times, trying to understand his differences. I loved learning about the way Jackson's mind worked and how this leads to some of the traumatic things that happened to him in this novel. I work with people with special needs and it is always good to get an insight into some of the issues they may have.
Jackson's sisters, Milla and Ruby, were both amazing the way they were with him and I loved his younger sister who came out with some great comments. His dad Andy, didn't know how to deal with him, which I found sad, but understandable, while his mum Julia, did everything she could to try and understand and work with his behaviours. I thought the way the relationship with Nana Pam changed between herself and Julia was really lovely and just shows you that when your chips are down, it can often be the people you least expect who have your back. There are a couple of secondary characters who were a wonderful support to Jackson and his family, but there were also characters in the background who because of Jackson's differences, jumped to conclusions and made things worse for them.
I highly recommend this novel if you are looking for a heartwarming read dealing with some important issues.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me with a digital copy in return for an honest review.
December 12, 2021
“Every morning when I wake up, my beans are flying around inside me like popcorn in a pot. They bounce me out of bed and make me want to jump and dance and do a hundred push-ups, even when the rest of the world is sleeping.”
An Unusual Boy is the fourth novel by Australian author, Fiona Higgins. The audio version is narrated by Melle Stewart. Eleven-year-old Jackson Curtis is a very special boy. He’s also a challenge for his family, but they love him and they’re (mostly) patient with all the tics, quirks, habits, and the routines that seem to follow an inexplicable logic. His little sister likes having a different brother because he’s never boring; she dubs his tendency to do handstands in public places “café yoga”. The family tries to “focus on the one thing we can control: our responses to Jackson’s behaviours.”
Jackson is smart (maybe too smart for the class teacher at his new school?) and he likes chess and soccer, but hasn’t made any real friends because the kids think he’s strange. Except April Kennedy, who’s shy and kind, and Miss Marion, with her rainbow hair and funny socks, who teaches dance.
He’s excited to have a play date with Digby Bianco after soccer on Mother’s Day, but it’s not quite what he imagined, and leaves him unsettled. And the next day at school, something happens that makes Jackson feel very uncomfortable, but he’s promised Digby he won’t tell, and one of their family rules is that they don’t break promises.
Suddenly, the police are involved and Julia Curtis, music therapist and busy mother of three, has to handle everything in the absence of her workaholic husband, temporarily overseas. The fact that “Jackson has always been so literal and linear in his thinking” and his inability to quickly articulate exactly what has occurred (“when people talk a lot, my brain gets glued up. And sometimes when it gets really clogged, I start seeing things in black and white”) works against him, seeing him ostracised.
Julia finds she must push past her exhaustion to draw on the well of strength and inventiveness she didn't know she had. As the school mothers jump to conclusions and close ranks, Julia is surprised and heartened by support from unexpected quarters. Her usually-disapproving mother-in-law becomes a fierce supporter of her unusual grandson; and the soccer coach and dance teacher remain stalwart in Jackson’s corner.
Higgins effortlessly evokes this familiar setting, her characters are completely believable, and their dialogue that of those people we encounter on the school run, at the supermarket, in the café. Jackson is an utter delight: who could fail to fall in love with a boy who asks “Is time… heavy or light?” When things start to go pear-shaped, it’s hard not to feel anxious for this remarkable boy. It’s almost a privilege to dip into the lives of these characters, and investment in them is well rewarded with humour and wise words.
If this is a cautionary tale about the dangers to children of unsupervised internet access, then it is equally an admonition to avoid xenophobia of any sort: race, colour, creed or simply a different way of thinking, an alternate perception of the world. The common compulsion to “label” is countered by Julia: “Sometimes labels just put special kids in boxes. Sometimes they just give adults an excuse to stop thinking.”
A totally credible tale, funny, thought-provoking, heart-warming and uplifting, contained within a stunning cover designed by Becky Glibbery: this has to be Fiona Higgins’s best yet!
An Unusual Boy is the fourth novel by Australian author, Fiona Higgins. The audio version is narrated by Melle Stewart. Eleven-year-old Jackson Curtis is a very special boy. He’s also a challenge for his family, but they love him and they’re (mostly) patient with all the tics, quirks, habits, and the routines that seem to follow an inexplicable logic. His little sister likes having a different brother because he’s never boring; she dubs his tendency to do handstands in public places “café yoga”. The family tries to “focus on the one thing we can control: our responses to Jackson’s behaviours.”
Jackson is smart (maybe too smart for the class teacher at his new school?) and he likes chess and soccer, but hasn’t made any real friends because the kids think he’s strange. Except April Kennedy, who’s shy and kind, and Miss Marion, with her rainbow hair and funny socks, who teaches dance.
He’s excited to have a play date with Digby Bianco after soccer on Mother’s Day, but it’s not quite what he imagined, and leaves him unsettled. And the next day at school, something happens that makes Jackson feel very uncomfortable, but he’s promised Digby he won’t tell, and one of their family rules is that they don’t break promises.
Suddenly, the police are involved and Julia Curtis, music therapist and busy mother of three, has to handle everything in the absence of her workaholic husband, temporarily overseas. The fact that “Jackson has always been so literal and linear in his thinking” and his inability to quickly articulate exactly what has occurred (“when people talk a lot, my brain gets glued up. And sometimes when it gets really clogged, I start seeing things in black and white”) works against him, seeing him ostracised.
Julia finds she must push past her exhaustion to draw on the well of strength and inventiveness she didn't know she had. As the school mothers jump to conclusions and close ranks, Julia is surprised and heartened by support from unexpected quarters. Her usually-disapproving mother-in-law becomes a fierce supporter of her unusual grandson; and the soccer coach and dance teacher remain stalwart in Jackson’s corner.
Higgins effortlessly evokes this familiar setting, her characters are completely believable, and their dialogue that of those people we encounter on the school run, at the supermarket, in the café. Jackson is an utter delight: who could fail to fall in love with a boy who asks “Is time… heavy or light?” When things start to go pear-shaped, it’s hard not to feel anxious for this remarkable boy. It’s almost a privilege to dip into the lives of these characters, and investment in them is well rewarded with humour and wise words.
If this is a cautionary tale about the dangers to children of unsupervised internet access, then it is equally an admonition to avoid xenophobia of any sort: race, colour, creed or simply a different way of thinking, an alternate perception of the world. The common compulsion to “label” is countered by Julia: “Sometimes labels just put special kids in boxes. Sometimes they just give adults an excuse to stop thinking.”
A totally credible tale, funny, thought-provoking, heart-warming and uplifting, contained within a stunning cover designed by Becky Glibbery: this has to be Fiona Higgins’s best yet!
November 23, 2020
CW: ableism, sexual assault by minors to a minor
Did not finish. As I thought, this book is thick with ableism, which is no surprise given its title and the non disabled parents raving over it .
Jackson, an 11 year old boy is described as neurodiverse. His mum Julia works as a music therapist. His sisters are not like him.
The book’s title is othering. The Unusual Boy suggests he’s outside of the “norm”. Whatever normal is, anyway it establishes ableism from the outset.
A search of the ebook shows that “autism” and “disability” and “disabled” are not used. What is it with writers who shy away from actually saying the word? Do they think it’s offensive or do they want the reader to form their armchair diagnosis?
Jackson’s character is written with so many stereotypes of autism- mostly swaying on the odd side. There are also some harmful characteristics thrown in - both harmful behaviour and harmful tropes about autism.
Own voices matter, and I don’t believe Higgins is autistic or disabled, and reading the acknowledgments, I don’t believe those she credited as helping with the research for this book are, either.
This book is aimed at giving readers an insight into parenting a disabled child and also an insight into being a disabled child. Sadly, it only reinforces negative stereotypes like disabled people are burdens, hard to manage, violent, friendless, lacking in social boundaries and unusual.
Make space for actually disabled writers, please.
Read disabled writers like
Jacinta Parsons
Astrid Edwards
Keah Brown
The Disability Visibility Project
Haben Girma
Katerina Bryant
Kylie Maslen
Judy Heuman
Dylan Alcott
Turia Pitt
So many more.
So tired of parents’ ableist tropes about disabled people.
Did not finish. As I thought, this book is thick with ableism, which is no surprise given its title and the non disabled parents raving over it .
Jackson, an 11 year old boy is described as neurodiverse. His mum Julia works as a music therapist. His sisters are not like him.
The book’s title is othering. The Unusual Boy suggests he’s outside of the “norm”. Whatever normal is, anyway it establishes ableism from the outset.
A search of the ebook shows that “autism” and “disability” and “disabled” are not used. What is it with writers who shy away from actually saying the word? Do they think it’s offensive or do they want the reader to form their armchair diagnosis?
Jackson’s character is written with so many stereotypes of autism- mostly swaying on the odd side. There are also some harmful characteristics thrown in - both harmful behaviour and harmful tropes about autism.
Own voices matter, and I don’t believe Higgins is autistic or disabled, and reading the acknowledgments, I don’t believe those she credited as helping with the research for this book are, either.
This book is aimed at giving readers an insight into parenting a disabled child and also an insight into being a disabled child. Sadly, it only reinforces negative stereotypes like disabled people are burdens, hard to manage, violent, friendless, lacking in social boundaries and unusual.
Make space for actually disabled writers, please.
Read disabled writers like
Jacinta Parsons
Astrid Edwards
Keah Brown
The Disability Visibility Project
Haben Girma
Katerina Bryant
Kylie Maslen
Judy Heuman
Dylan Alcott
Turia Pitt
So many more.
So tired of parents’ ableist tropes about disabled people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2020
Julia Curtis is a mother of three. Her husband often works away from home. Her mother-in-law is always present. Her fourteen yewr old daughter, Milla has fallen in love for the first time and her youngest, Ruby is nine. But her son, eleven year old Jackson is different. Bringing Jackson up isn't always easy. On Monday morning, Jackson follows his new friend, Digby into the school toilets. What happens inside changes everything; not only for Jackson but for the whole family.
Despite this book having some dark themes, it's still quite an easy book to read. I was pulled into this story from the first few chapters. 5here were paerts that did drag out a bit but overall, the pace is steady. I liked that we were told the story from Julia and Jacksons perspectives. This story will tug at your heartstrings.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldworldBooks and the author #FionaHiggins for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Despite this book having some dark themes, it's still quite an easy book to read. I was pulled into this story from the first few chapters. 5here were paerts that did drag out a bit but overall, the pace is steady. I liked that we were told the story from Julia and Jacksons perspectives. This story will tug at your heartstrings.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldworldBooks and the author #FionaHiggins for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2020
Thought-provoking, beautifully layered and sensitively written, Fiona Higgins’ An Unusual Boy is a gripping and fascinating tale about family, relationships and the power of love I am still thinking about weeks after reading the book.
Julia Curtis is a busy mother of three whose days are spent juggling a million and one things whilst trying to remain calm, composed and serene – a feat which is becoming increasingly difficult with every passing day. With her husband frequently away on business, it falls squarely upon Julia’s shoulders to look after the house and their three kids whilst coping with a demanding mother-in-law and a stressful career. Julia feels as if she is forever lurching from one crisis to another and with her children growing up, a tranquil existence feels like light years away.
As if having to cope with her fourteen year old daughter falling in love for the first time and her nine year’s penchant for wearing fashions nobody can dissuade her from isn’t enough, it is Julia’s middle son Jackson who is giving her the most worry and concern. At 11 years of age, Jackson is a boy who many would describe as different and unusual. He is nothing like his sisters. Or his classmates. Or anybody else for that matter. Jackson is one of a kind and Julia cannot help but worry about him. Is she simply being overprotective? Is she letting her worries and imagination run away with her? Or does she have legitimate reasons for her concerns?
Being different is hard – especially in a society where everybody strives to conform and be homogenous. When Jackson makes a friend, Digby, Julia is relieved that her son has met somebody at school he can be friendly with. But little does she realise that her problems are only just beginning when one Monday morning, Jackson follows Digby into the toilets at school and what happens next changes all of their lives forever.
Her boy has never needed her more than he does now and Julia vows to do whatever it takes to save her son from an unjust fate in a world where being unusual is the most unwanted thing one could possibly be.
Fiona Higgins’ An Unusual Boy is the perfect book club read. Written with great compassion and understanding, An Unusual Boy is a heart-wrenching tale about a mother’s love, family loyalty and the lengths we are prepared to go to for the people we love. A novel that deftly and skilfully examines resilience, forgiveness and courage, An Unusual Boy is a haunting, devastating and stirring tale that is highly emotional and wholly inspiring.
Fiona Higgins is a brilliant novelist I hadn’t read before, but after being so moved by An Unusual Boy, I shall make sure to keep an eye out for future releases by her.
Julia Curtis is a busy mother of three whose days are spent juggling a million and one things whilst trying to remain calm, composed and serene – a feat which is becoming increasingly difficult with every passing day. With her husband frequently away on business, it falls squarely upon Julia’s shoulders to look after the house and their three kids whilst coping with a demanding mother-in-law and a stressful career. Julia feels as if she is forever lurching from one crisis to another and with her children growing up, a tranquil existence feels like light years away.
As if having to cope with her fourteen year old daughter falling in love for the first time and her nine year’s penchant for wearing fashions nobody can dissuade her from isn’t enough, it is Julia’s middle son Jackson who is giving her the most worry and concern. At 11 years of age, Jackson is a boy who many would describe as different and unusual. He is nothing like his sisters. Or his classmates. Or anybody else for that matter. Jackson is one of a kind and Julia cannot help but worry about him. Is she simply being overprotective? Is she letting her worries and imagination run away with her? Or does she have legitimate reasons for her concerns?
Being different is hard – especially in a society where everybody strives to conform and be homogenous. When Jackson makes a friend, Digby, Julia is relieved that her son has met somebody at school he can be friendly with. But little does she realise that her problems are only just beginning when one Monday morning, Jackson follows Digby into the toilets at school and what happens next changes all of their lives forever.
Her boy has never needed her more than he does now and Julia vows to do whatever it takes to save her son from an unjust fate in a world where being unusual is the most unwanted thing one could possibly be.
Fiona Higgins’ An Unusual Boy is the perfect book club read. Written with great compassion and understanding, An Unusual Boy is a heart-wrenching tale about a mother’s love, family loyalty and the lengths we are prepared to go to for the people we love. A novel that deftly and skilfully examines resilience, forgiveness and courage, An Unusual Boy is a haunting, devastating and stirring tale that is highly emotional and wholly inspiring.
Fiona Higgins is a brilliant novelist I hadn’t read before, but after being so moved by An Unusual Boy, I shall make sure to keep an eye out for future releases by her.
October 27, 2020
‘Everyone’s unusual. Just you remember that. No one’s bloody normal.’
Unfolding from the alternate perspectives of music therapist, Julia Curtis, and her son, eleven-year-old Jackson, An Unusual Boy by Fiona Higgins is an emotive family drama about an atypical child and his typical family.
Both a source of joy and frustration for his parents and siblings, 9-year-old Ruby and 14-year-old Milla, Jackson is smart, honest, and sweet but also has several behavioural tics, and difficulties with the nuances of communication, which mark him as neurodiverse. Having recently relocated from the inner city to a coastal suburb, Julia is delighted when Jackson is invited to a schoolmate’s home, but the friendship is short lived when the boys are accused of a reprehensible act. With her workaholic husband largely absent, a shell-shocked Julia struggles to deal with the fall-out from the incident, and advocate for her unusual boy.
Higgins portrayal of her characters is authentic and sensitive. It’s easy to sympathise with Julia, a harried mother juggling the challenges of caring for her three children while working part time with little support from anyone, including her often absent husband. Carrying the ‘emotional load’ of a family is exhausting at the best of times, but is even more so when your child has additional needs, and Julia’s struggles and mistakes feel realistic as she tries to do the best she can.
Jackson’s unusual thought processes and behaviour are communicated well. He is both literal and linear in his thinking, and has obsessive-compulsive traits. Often overwhelmed by his thoughts and the workings of his prodigious memory, his behaviours are sometimes bizarre, and relating to others is a daily challenge. Jackson is an appealing character who evokes empathy in the reader, but in reality would likely frustrate and annoy adults who lack such insight, as shown by the impatience of his teacher, and the reactions to his headstands in a cafe. While society in general is more accepting of diversity these days, issues remain, particularly when those differences are not physically evident, and labels fail to neatly summarise a condition.
The incident (TW: sexual assault) which sparks a crisis for the Curtis family is dealt with sensitively by Higgins. The fall out highlights the common failings of adults when dealing with a neurodiverse child. It’s also a reminder that compassion, not judgement, should be our default when dealing with children, there is more than one victim here.
The only thing I thought was out of place in the novel was the use of currently nonexistent VR technology used to underscore the vulnerability of children online. There are possibilities aplenty for the exploitation of children via the internet without the need for a ‘sci-fi’ element, and unsupervised access is not the only condition for risk.
Beautifully written with grace and humour, An Unusual Boy is a thought-provoking, tender and moving novel that explores diversity, family, and humanity.
Unfolding from the alternate perspectives of music therapist, Julia Curtis, and her son, eleven-year-old Jackson, An Unusual Boy by Fiona Higgins is an emotive family drama about an atypical child and his typical family.
Both a source of joy and frustration for his parents and siblings, 9-year-old Ruby and 14-year-old Milla, Jackson is smart, honest, and sweet but also has several behavioural tics, and difficulties with the nuances of communication, which mark him as neurodiverse. Having recently relocated from the inner city to a coastal suburb, Julia is delighted when Jackson is invited to a schoolmate’s home, but the friendship is short lived when the boys are accused of a reprehensible act. With her workaholic husband largely absent, a shell-shocked Julia struggles to deal with the fall-out from the incident, and advocate for her unusual boy.
Higgins portrayal of her characters is authentic and sensitive. It’s easy to sympathise with Julia, a harried mother juggling the challenges of caring for her three children while working part time with little support from anyone, including her often absent husband. Carrying the ‘emotional load’ of a family is exhausting at the best of times, but is even more so when your child has additional needs, and Julia’s struggles and mistakes feel realistic as she tries to do the best she can.
Jackson’s unusual thought processes and behaviour are communicated well. He is both literal and linear in his thinking, and has obsessive-compulsive traits. Often overwhelmed by his thoughts and the workings of his prodigious memory, his behaviours are sometimes bizarre, and relating to others is a daily challenge. Jackson is an appealing character who evokes empathy in the reader, but in reality would likely frustrate and annoy adults who lack such insight, as shown by the impatience of his teacher, and the reactions to his headstands in a cafe. While society in general is more accepting of diversity these days, issues remain, particularly when those differences are not physically evident, and labels fail to neatly summarise a condition.
The incident (TW: sexual assault) which sparks a crisis for the Curtis family is dealt with sensitively by Higgins. The fall out highlights the common failings of adults when dealing with a neurodiverse child. It’s also a reminder that compassion, not judgement, should be our default when dealing with children, there is more than one victim here.
The only thing I thought was out of place in the novel was the use of currently nonexistent VR technology used to underscore the vulnerability of children online. There are possibilities aplenty for the exploitation of children via the internet without the need for a ‘sci-fi’ element, and unsupervised access is not the only condition for risk.
Beautifully written with grace and humour, An Unusual Boy is a thought-provoking, tender and moving novel that explores diversity, family, and humanity.
September 15, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for my copy.
Fiona Higgins is a new author to me but her style of writing captivated me from the off. This is a beautifully written book about a family raising a neurodiverse boy Jackson.
Jackson spends a lot of time in the handstand position to quell the beans inside him. He has started at a new school and is struggling to make friends because of his strange quirks. He is invited on a playdate by Digby from his soccer team, Digby is allowed unlimited screen time which is completely against what is suggested for Jackson. The next day an incident occurs which quickly descends into a nightmare for Jackson and his family.
The rest of the book deals with the aftermath of Jackson telling his truth in his typical fashion. The book has some fabulously colourful characters in it including Ruby the sister and the dance teacher. I grew to like other characters as the book progressed and although it's a bit of a schmalzy ending I loved it.
Fiona Higgins is a new author to me but her style of writing captivated me from the off. This is a beautifully written book about a family raising a neurodiverse boy Jackson.
Jackson spends a lot of time in the handstand position to quell the beans inside him. He has started at a new school and is struggling to make friends because of his strange quirks. He is invited on a playdate by Digby from his soccer team, Digby is allowed unlimited screen time which is completely against what is suggested for Jackson. The next day an incident occurs which quickly descends into a nightmare for Jackson and his family.
The rest of the book deals with the aftermath of Jackson telling his truth in his typical fashion. The book has some fabulously colourful characters in it including Ruby the sister and the dance teacher. I grew to like other characters as the book progressed and although it's a bit of a schmalzy ending I loved it.
October 21, 2020
I am not a mother yet but I found this tender, heart-wrenching and harrowing. I do have experience of being seen as "different" by others because of my multiple disabilities, glasses and wheelchair.
Struggles at school are what I experienced too and this novel resonated with me. I could sympathise and empathise with the day-to-day extra struggle that it is to live with different abilities but also life's beautiful moments.
I felt like I was living with the family, this book was so immersive. I adored the family and Ruby has my extra kudos as the family fashionista which I guess I am for my family too. I loved the detail in every character to make them unique.
The word choices, pacing and plot are utterly enthralling and the family's experiences are what no family should have to go through.
Fiona Higgins' writing style oozes empathy and she deals with the tough subjects in this book with expertise. The book has wonderful visuals and details dropped here and there that just made me love everything about the novel, the characters and everything about it.
I am an advocate for books like this. If you love novels about family, neurodiversity harrowing issues that some authors do not write about, impeccably-written plots that make you think, smile, cry and tear up yet root for them, then you will love An Unusual Boy.
Thanks to Fiona Higgins and Rachel's Random Resources for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars, although I would give it more if I could.
The world needs more books like this and more authors like Fiona Higgins who are not afraid of subjects we need to be more open about.
If you love Cathy Glass novels and any honest, expertly written novels about what it's really like to live a life where people see you as different but where you are the one who really has so much to give the world then you will love An Unusual Boy.
Struggles at school are what I experienced too and this novel resonated with me. I could sympathise and empathise with the day-to-day extra struggle that it is to live with different abilities but also life's beautiful moments.
I felt like I was living with the family, this book was so immersive. I adored the family and Ruby has my extra kudos as the family fashionista which I guess I am for my family too. I loved the detail in every character to make them unique.
The word choices, pacing and plot are utterly enthralling and the family's experiences are what no family should have to go through.
Fiona Higgins' writing style oozes empathy and she deals with the tough subjects in this book with expertise. The book has wonderful visuals and details dropped here and there that just made me love everything about the novel, the characters and everything about it.
I am an advocate for books like this. If you love novels about family, neurodiversity harrowing issues that some authors do not write about, impeccably-written plots that make you think, smile, cry and tear up yet root for them, then you will love An Unusual Boy.
Thanks to Fiona Higgins and Rachel's Random Resources for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars, although I would give it more if I could.
The world needs more books like this and more authors like Fiona Higgins who are not afraid of subjects we need to be more open about.
If you love Cathy Glass novels and any honest, expertly written novels about what it's really like to live a life where people see you as different but where you are the one who really has so much to give the world then you will love An Unusual Boy.
October 21, 2020
‘It’s not hard for me to remember,’ says Jackson. ‘I’m a memory magnet.’
What a beautifully written story this is! As the mother of a child with Aspergers (long before this syndrome was given a name) and of a grandchild on the spectrum, this book stole my heart as I was reading it.
Jackson is a fifth grade boy in Australia that is considered "unusual" because of undiagnosed neurodiversity issues. His mother Julia is trying to cope with Jackson's issues (including a disregard of activities that might prove dangerous to him) along with raising Jackson's two sisters. She's basically doing this on her own since Jackson's father is traveling for work most of the time.
I love that a lot of the book is told from Jackson's perspective, giving us readers insight to the inner workings of how he thinks and deals with everyday life.
We also get Julia's perspective, trying to cope with providing as "normal" a life as possible for her "unusual" son and his two sisters.
The story also deals with people misunderstanding neurodiverse children and how literally they can take everything, the serious problems this can cause, the dangers of trusting the wrong people, and the dangers of unsupervised Internet and computer access to our youth today.
I highly recommend this book to all readers. It is an exceptional story.
I received this book from Boldwood Books through Net Galley in the hopes that I would read and review it.
What a beautifully written story this is! As the mother of a child with Aspergers (long before this syndrome was given a name) and of a grandchild on the spectrum, this book stole my heart as I was reading it.
Jackson is a fifth grade boy in Australia that is considered "unusual" because of undiagnosed neurodiversity issues. His mother Julia is trying to cope with Jackson's issues (including a disregard of activities that might prove dangerous to him) along with raising Jackson's two sisters. She's basically doing this on her own since Jackson's father is traveling for work most of the time.
I love that a lot of the book is told from Jackson's perspective, giving us readers insight to the inner workings of how he thinks and deals with everyday life.
We also get Julia's perspective, trying to cope with providing as "normal" a life as possible for her "unusual" son and his two sisters.
The story also deals with people misunderstanding neurodiverse children and how literally they can take everything, the serious problems this can cause, the dangers of trusting the wrong people, and the dangers of unsupervised Internet and computer access to our youth today.
I highly recommend this book to all readers. It is an exceptional story.
I received this book from Boldwood Books through Net Galley in the hopes that I would read and review it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews