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Exit Through the Gift Shop
Anahita Rosalind Ghorban-Galaszczuk (yes, that really is her name but you can call her Ana) is discovering that life is absurd. As if dying of cancer at the age of 12.5 isn't bad enough, she still has to endure daily insults from her nemesis, Alyssa (Queen Mean) Anderson.Ana's on a wild roller-coaster of life and death, kindness and cruelty, ordinary and extraordinary.And she's got a few things to do before she exits . . .WINNER OF THE FOREVABILITY BOOK AWARDS SPECIAL MENTION AWARD 2021HIGHLY COMMENDED FOR NSW PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS THE PATRICIA WRIGHTSON PRIZE FOR CHILDREN'S LITERATURE 2022SHORTLISTED FOR THE ABIA BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN (AGES 7-12) 2022SHORTLISTED FOR THE CBCA BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR YOUNGER READERS 2022SHORTLISTED FOR THE AUSTRALIAN BOOK DESIGN AWARDS 2022 BEST DESIGNED CHILDREN'S FICTION BOOKSHORTLISTED FOR THE PRIME MINISTER'S LITERARY AWARDS CHILDREN'S LITERATURE 2022 SHORTLISTED FOR THE WEST AUSTRALIAN YOUNG READERS' BOOK AWARDS MIDDLE GRADE READERS 2023Praise for Exit Through the Gift Shop'Maryam is a brilliantly funny writer for kids. I have asked her to adapt my own books for the stage and she did a magnificent job every time. This original story of hers is an absolute joy.' - David Walliams
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
32 people are currently reading
509 people want to read
About the author
Maryam Master
7 books21 followersMaryam Master is a writer with more than 20 years' experience creating work for stage and screen.
In 2019 she wrote the stage adaptation of David Walliams' best-selling book The Midnight Gang. The show enjoyed a sellout season at the Sydney Opera House and will begin an extensive national tour in 2021. The previous year she wrote an acclaimed adaptation of Walliams' Billionaire Boy, which also toured nationally.
In 2017 Maryam collaborated with Australian Children's Laureate Leigh Hobbs on Horrible Harriet: Live on Stage. In 2016, her new version of Mr Stink toured nationally and to the UAE, and was nominated for a Sydney Theatre Award.
Maryam started her career in television, writing over 80 episodes of Home and Away (Seven Network). Since then, Maryam has written for many major Australian and international television programs. In 2011 she was selected by Sesame Workshop as the writer for Elmo's tour of Australia, and wrote Elmo and Ollie for Sesame and Nick Jr. Other TV credits include Hoopla Doopla (Beyond), Lah-Lah's Adventures (Stella/Seven Network), Blinky Bill (Yoram Gross), Animalscope (CBeebies), Raggs (Southern Star/Seven Network), Dive Olly Dive (Flying Bark), New Macdonald's Farm (Pacific and Beyond/Nine Network) and Bambaloo (Jim Henson Co./Yoram Gross/Seven Network).
Other stage work includes The Incredible Book Eating Boy (Australian and international tour), Lah Lah's Big Live Band, which debuted to sold-out audiences at the Opera House Concert Hall, and 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and Jingle Bell Jazz (Sydney Opera House Babies Proms).
In 2019 she wrote the stage adaptation of David Walliams' best-selling book The Midnight Gang. The show enjoyed a sellout season at the Sydney Opera House and will begin an extensive national tour in 2021. The previous year she wrote an acclaimed adaptation of Walliams' Billionaire Boy, which also toured nationally.
In 2017 Maryam collaborated with Australian Children's Laureate Leigh Hobbs on Horrible Harriet: Live on Stage. In 2016, her new version of Mr Stink toured nationally and to the UAE, and was nominated for a Sydney Theatre Award.
Maryam started her career in television, writing over 80 episodes of Home and Away (Seven Network). Since then, Maryam has written for many major Australian and international television programs. In 2011 she was selected by Sesame Workshop as the writer for Elmo's tour of Australia, and wrote Elmo and Ollie for Sesame and Nick Jr. Other TV credits include Hoopla Doopla (Beyond), Lah-Lah's Adventures (Stella/Seven Network), Blinky Bill (Yoram Gross), Animalscope (CBeebies), Raggs (Southern Star/Seven Network), Dive Olly Dive (Flying Bark), New Macdonald's Farm (Pacific and Beyond/Nine Network) and Bambaloo (Jim Henson Co./Yoram Gross/Seven Network).
Other stage work includes The Incredible Book Eating Boy (Australian and international tour), Lah Lah's Big Live Band, which debuted to sold-out audiences at the Opera House Concert Hall, and 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and Jingle Bell Jazz (Sydney Opera House Babies Proms).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
September 9, 2021
Exit Through the Gift Shop is Ana’s story. Ana is a 12.5 year old girl with cancer. She writes the book as an English assignment about the last year of her life.
Can I say this is a fun book! Cancer and dying are tough topics but at no time does Maryam Master try to wring the emotion out of her readers.
We follow Ana through what she is told will be her final year of life as she contemplates her own mortality, succumbs to cancer treatments, takes a last hope trip to the USA and faces a ruthless bully.
Ana is very down to earth and philosophical. She has accepted her fate and is ready to make the most of the time that she has. She has quite a sense of humour and her story is written in a dramatic (comedic) way with lots of big bold words and sketches on the pages.
There is a best friend, Al, by her side to support and cheer her up. He is also a little bit silly and not worried about what people think of him. And what’s a teen novel without a nemesis! Here, Alyssa takes the cake with relentless bullying which Ana expects to stop when Alyssa finds out she has cancer. Ana has already graciously decided to forgive her. Alyssa would have to be the embodiment of bullying.
Maryam Master has written an entertaining novel that will be ideal as a school study novel with the inclusion of metaphors, alliteration and exaggeration. Alyssa, the bully, would be a good case study and excellent discussion point.
Recommended for ages 12 – 16 years
*thank you to Beauty & Lace book club for my copy
Can I say this is a fun book! Cancer and dying are tough topics but at no time does Maryam Master try to wring the emotion out of her readers.
We follow Ana through what she is told will be her final year of life as she contemplates her own mortality, succumbs to cancer treatments, takes a last hope trip to the USA and faces a ruthless bully.
Ana is very down to earth and philosophical. She has accepted her fate and is ready to make the most of the time that she has. She has quite a sense of humour and her story is written in a dramatic (comedic) way with lots of big bold words and sketches on the pages.
There is a best friend, Al, by her side to support and cheer her up. He is also a little bit silly and not worried about what people think of him. And what’s a teen novel without a nemesis! Here, Alyssa takes the cake with relentless bullying which Ana expects to stop when Alyssa finds out she has cancer. Ana has already graciously decided to forgive her. Alyssa would have to be the embodiment of bullying.
Maryam Master has written an entertaining novel that will be ideal as a school study novel with the inclusion of metaphors, alliteration and exaggeration. Alyssa, the bully, would be a good case study and excellent discussion point.
Recommended for ages 12 – 16 years
*thank you to Beauty & Lace book club for my copy
August 1, 2021
A cute quick middle grade fiction read about a terminally ill tween being bullied.
Messages around hurt people hurt people, and also that online bullying has real life consequences were good. And I really liked that the main character was Iranian (like the author).
I liked that this kid’s book was available in audiobook format, that is rare.
Messages around hurt people hurt people, and also that online bullying has real life consequences were good. And I really liked that the main character was Iranian (like the author).
I liked that this kid’s book was available in audiobook format, that is rare.
October 23, 2021
I doubt I'll ever think of death the same way. Written with such love and wisdom and joy. A book for all the endings, all sunsets in our lives.
June 11, 2022
If there was a book equivalent of Sia's movie Music ... this would be it.
As much as the movie was harmful to the Autistic community ... this is just as damaging to those directly affected by childhood cancer and their families.
I'm not saying the author intended for this to be the case. In fact the author could have had good intentions. Or no intentions at all.
I'm just calling this out as someone close who has seen the anguish and trauma a child and their immediate family has gone through.
Representation matters. I see a book with queer kids on the front, I'd give this to a kid who might be struggling with their identity. A strong black girl on the front, I'd give it to a strong black girl I know in my life. etc.
I ... would NOT give a child going through cancer this book and say this is for you. I wouldn't give it to their family with its "lighthearted" cancer joke from the first page. I wouldn't give it to anybody who I wanted to see an authentic portrayal of childhood cancer. Sure, authors can write about what they want and whoever they want, but voices are important, if the voices are telling you it's not right then you should try and listen. I don't know how this book passed though readers, editors and publishers and no one along the way said anything. Silence. Because the way that readers will view and stereotype survivors and their families will fall back on them. Not on the author, but them. And we are not a side show.
Sure, there is always humour and hope and beauty in the journey, but a joke from the dying main character saying "RIP me" and a picture of a tombstone? Good and well coming from a healthy able-bodied privileged author.
Tonedeaf.
As much as the movie was harmful to the Autistic community ... this is just as damaging to those directly affected by childhood cancer and their families.
I'm not saying the author intended for this to be the case. In fact the author could have had good intentions. Or no intentions at all.
I'm just calling this out as someone close who has seen the anguish and trauma a child and their immediate family has gone through.
Representation matters. I see a book with queer kids on the front, I'd give this to a kid who might be struggling with their identity. A strong black girl on the front, I'd give it to a strong black girl I know in my life. etc.
I ... would NOT give a child going through cancer this book and say this is for you. I wouldn't give it to their family with its "lighthearted" cancer joke from the first page. I wouldn't give it to anybody who I wanted to see an authentic portrayal of childhood cancer. Sure, authors can write about what they want and whoever they want, but voices are important, if the voices are telling you it's not right then you should try and listen. I don't know how this book passed though readers, editors and publishers and no one along the way said anything. Silence. Because the way that readers will view and stereotype survivors and their families will fall back on them. Not on the author, but them. And we are not a side show.
Sure, there is always humour and hope and beauty in the journey, but a joke from the dying main character saying "RIP me" and a picture of a tombstone? Good and well coming from a healthy able-bodied privileged author.
Tonedeaf.
July 22, 2022
update: reread for readers cup question writing purposes.
okay so this is very funny, very uplifting and wonderfully insightful.
And oh oh so sad.
*quiet tears*
okay so this is very funny, very uplifting and wonderfully insightful.
And oh oh so sad.
*quiet tears*
August 12, 2021
The cover was the first thing that got me about this book. Well done, Astred Hicks.
But, the reason I picked up and read it today - author, Maryam Masters.
A number of years ago I was the classroom teacher in a virtual excursion between a primary school class & The Sydney Opera House. The session was about David Walliams’ novel ‘Mr Stink’ being staged at the Opera House. The session (and stage show) were sensational.
And author Maryam Masters was the writer who created the stage play, from the novel.
I was really impressed with her presentation then, and the stage play was sensational.
So, I came to this novel with high expectations.
Our narrator is 12.5 year old Anahita, part-Persian, daughter of divorced parents and all heart.
The story arc of this middle grade, Australian novel is a real roller coaster. Children aged 10+ will laugh out loud, yet quietly identify and nod along too in parts less comedic also.
Part of me wondered if Maryam Masters was inspired (in part) by David Walliams’ ‘The midnight gang’ , which also features themes of childhood illness, friendship and inner strength.
But, the format of this text was the real delight for me. Written in short, punchy passages/chapters younger readers will really appreciate. Masters understands her audience well, and keeps the story powering along with a great format - short, snappy chapters with engaging illustrations, and added playful font.
Themes of bullying, friendship, well-being and family makes this an endearing and relatable read for upper primary school students.
But, the reason I picked up and read it today - author, Maryam Masters.
A number of years ago I was the classroom teacher in a virtual excursion between a primary school class & The Sydney Opera House. The session was about David Walliams’ novel ‘Mr Stink’ being staged at the Opera House. The session (and stage show) were sensational.
And author Maryam Masters was the writer who created the stage play, from the novel.
I was really impressed with her presentation then, and the stage play was sensational.
So, I came to this novel with high expectations.
Our narrator is 12.5 year old Anahita, part-Persian, daughter of divorced parents and all heart.
The story arc of this middle grade, Australian novel is a real roller coaster. Children aged 10+ will laugh out loud, yet quietly identify and nod along too in parts less comedic also.
Part of me wondered if Maryam Masters was inspired (in part) by David Walliams’ ‘The midnight gang’ , which also features themes of childhood illness, friendship and inner strength.
But, the format of this text was the real delight for me. Written in short, punchy passages/chapters younger readers will really appreciate. Masters understands her audience well, and keeps the story powering along with a great format - short, snappy chapters with engaging illustrations, and added playful font.
Themes of bullying, friendship, well-being and family makes this an endearing and relatable read for upper primary school students.
August 22, 2021
Exit Through the Gift Shop - Maryam Master
This book, is an unexpected gem, I looked at the cover and the title and thought it looked interesting. Anahita has cancer and has been bullied for years by Alyssa who is cruel and has no sympathy or regard for others.
Maryam's narration is brilliantly done, its surprisingly funny, empathetic and thoughtful. Despite the subject matter it was a telling tale of how Ana copes with her disease, her impending death and how life is to be lived, savored and enjoyed.
This was such an interesting read.
This book, is an unexpected gem, I looked at the cover and the title and thought it looked interesting. Anahita has cancer and has been bullied for years by Alyssa who is cruel and has no sympathy or regard for others.
Maryam's narration is brilliantly done, its surprisingly funny, empathetic and thoughtful. Despite the subject matter it was a telling tale of how Ana copes with her disease, her impending death and how life is to be lived, savored and enjoyed.
This was such an interesting read.
December 18, 2021
DO NOT gift to childhood/teen cancer patients or survivors- A teen reader’s perspective (who has had a sibling with cancer).
’Exit through the Gift Shop’ by Maryam Master is a book about a twelve year old girl with cancer- yet ANOTHER one of those (eye roll) young cancer books with a predictable ending and lazy plot gimmick: death. Marketed at tween to slightly older readers as well. It is a book that has been written insensitively (obvious from the very first page that this children’s author knows or cares very little about the mental health affecting childhood and teen cancer patients and survivors, seems like she barely bothered to do any research at all beyond: tragic equals young kid dying of cancer and being bullied so let’s just try and milk some more out of that totally not done a dozen times before idea.
Do not-and I repeat- DO NOT gift this book to young cancer patients, survivors or their families, however well meaning your intentions might be. The very first page is enough to freak them right out. They deserve so much more love and kindness. Yes, people deal with stuff differently, but something tells me an actual cancer diagnosis would have this author running… it’s not “cute” or “funny” visiting an actual children’s oncology ward. It’s hands down one of the most hellish places you’ll ever see in your life. And those kids need hope- not more crappy books making out they all die and that they die in a cool, accepting peace out world kind of way through some “gift shop!”
The words on the first page that read: “So, here’s the thing. I’m dying. RIP me. Soonish…” disgust me as cancer is not a joke as this author has made it out to be. Jam packed an entire novel with too many ideas, insensitive illustrations and done the lazy thing of copying all the other romanticised, glamourised teen cancer books already out there. Worse thing about this book is it is aimed at a much younger age group than some of the others.
The deceiving bright cover and title initially caught my eye, but the read was just too un-original and I actually cringed at some parts like the “Death this way” sign because wow, pretty harsh. In my opinion, there are better books for tweens and teens out there by writers you can TELL actually CARE about ALL young readers.
’Exit through the Gift Shop’ by Maryam Master is a book about a twelve year old girl with cancer- yet ANOTHER one of those (eye roll) young cancer books with a predictable ending and lazy plot gimmick: death. Marketed at tween to slightly older readers as well. It is a book that has been written insensitively (obvious from the very first page that this children’s author knows or cares very little about the mental health affecting childhood and teen cancer patients and survivors, seems like she barely bothered to do any research at all beyond: tragic equals young kid dying of cancer and being bullied so let’s just try and milk some more out of that totally not done a dozen times before idea.
Do not-and I repeat- DO NOT gift this book to young cancer patients, survivors or their families, however well meaning your intentions might be. The very first page is enough to freak them right out. They deserve so much more love and kindness. Yes, people deal with stuff differently, but something tells me an actual cancer diagnosis would have this author running… it’s not “cute” or “funny” visiting an actual children’s oncology ward. It’s hands down one of the most hellish places you’ll ever see in your life. And those kids need hope- not more crappy books making out they all die and that they die in a cool, accepting peace out world kind of way through some “gift shop!”
The words on the first page that read: “So, here’s the thing. I’m dying. RIP me. Soonish…” disgust me as cancer is not a joke as this author has made it out to be. Jam packed an entire novel with too many ideas, insensitive illustrations and done the lazy thing of copying all the other romanticised, glamourised teen cancer books already out there. Worse thing about this book is it is aimed at a much younger age group than some of the others.
The deceiving bright cover and title initially caught my eye, but the read was just too un-original and I actually cringed at some parts like the “Death this way” sign because wow, pretty harsh. In my opinion, there are better books for tweens and teens out there by writers you can TELL actually CARE about ALL young readers.
November 30, 2022
Exit Through the Gift Shop Review
Now, before I start this review, I will say that I have never had cancer, nor have I been close with someone who has, so this review may not be what you are after.
I am not entirely sure why this was considered a young adult book, because it seemed rather… childish. The book seemed to try and make light of two very serious topics – cancer and bullying – which I don’t think is ok. Perhaps for a younger reader, say around 9 or 10, this could be an enjoyable book, that delves into these topics enough for some understanding. To me, it seemed to try and pretend like the bullying wasn’t horrendous (seriously WTF???) and that cancer and dying wasn’t serious. Now I know that someone’s entire personality probably won’t revolve around Having Cancer, but it just felt disingenuous to me. I think seeing more of Ana’s treatments and diagnosis would have helped to make an impact on me. The whole thing just felt off.
If I thought about recommending it, I would be very conflicted, as the demographic of readers I know doesn’t fit what I feel as though this book is for. To me it feels light-hearted, and a little silly or childish, definitely designed for younger readers than I. But the issue is that the topics were heavy, and ones that I personally think need to be treated with a little more dignity.
Before I wrap this up, I strongly suggest you read other reviews from people who have had cancer, for a more in-depth look at the realism in this book.
Characters: 2/5
Plot: 2/5
Re-readability: 2/5
Now, before I start this review, I will say that I have never had cancer, nor have I been close with someone who has, so this review may not be what you are after.
I am not entirely sure why this was considered a young adult book, because it seemed rather… childish. The book seemed to try and make light of two very serious topics – cancer and bullying – which I don’t think is ok. Perhaps for a younger reader, say around 9 or 10, this could be an enjoyable book, that delves into these topics enough for some understanding. To me, it seemed to try and pretend like the bullying wasn’t horrendous (seriously WTF???) and that cancer and dying wasn’t serious. Now I know that someone’s entire personality probably won’t revolve around Having Cancer, but it just felt disingenuous to me. I think seeing more of Ana’s treatments and diagnosis would have helped to make an impact on me. The whole thing just felt off.
If I thought about recommending it, I would be very conflicted, as the demographic of readers I know doesn’t fit what I feel as though this book is for. To me it feels light-hearted, and a little silly or childish, definitely designed for younger readers than I. But the issue is that the topics were heavy, and ones that I personally think need to be treated with a little more dignity.
Before I wrap this up, I strongly suggest you read other reviews from people who have had cancer, for a more in-depth look at the realism in this book.
Characters: 2/5
Plot: 2/5
Re-readability: 2/5
April 2, 2022
Ok, this was a tricky one due to its handling of the sensitive topics of childhood cancer, death of children and bullying. If you look at the one star reviews of this book, you will read reviews from childhood cancer survivors and people who have been close to children with cancer who find this book’s handling of this topic to be flippant and insensitive. I’m inclined to side with these people due to their experience and to boost their voices in this situation. Personally, I don’t think it went as far as some books (I’m looking at you ‘Wonder’) in terms of it becoming a story about other people’s lives being enriched by the presence of a disabled/dying child, but I do agree that it comes across as flippant at times. The other difficult topic it looks at is bullying. Let’s be clear that the bullying the main character experiences is the type of thing an adult would get fined/jail time for if taken to court. The resolution of this situation is, I feel, inappropriate and a potentially harmful message for children who might be experiencing bullying. Putting aside the content, I thought the author did a good job of writing the voice of the main character and I will definitely be interested to see what she writes next, but unfortunately the mishandling of the book’s themes makes it a no from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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August 29, 2021I've either read something brilliant or woefully misjudged ... I can't decide which.
Anahita is 12 and dying of cancer. Her age and the layout of the book make me think this is for children, the writing maybe more for YA (well, say Ys 9-11). And yes, she's dying but she's also living and that's brilliant ... there is a lot of positivity and humour to be found in her situation, but ... I don't think it quite worked.
Loved the breezy writing style, the cultural references, and zippiness of it all, but I think the topic was too big to be treated quite so casually. And the author was trying to pack so much in, the bullying classmate, the trip to America, the hair loss from chemo.
Since becoming a parent I've known about 5 children with cancer (I was never aware of any ill children when I was a child), so perhaps this book could be a way of opening up a discussion amongst children/young people.
no rating because I have such mixed feelings, but I certainly hope to hear more from Maryam Master in the future.
Anahita is 12 and dying of cancer. Her age and the layout of the book make me think this is for children, the writing maybe more for YA (well, say Ys 9-11). And yes, she's dying but she's also living and that's brilliant ... there is a lot of positivity and humour to be found in her situation, but ... I don't think it quite worked.
Loved the breezy writing style, the cultural references, and zippiness of it all, but I think the topic was too big to be treated quite so casually. And the author was trying to pack so much in, the bullying classmate, the trip to America, the hair loss from chemo.
Since becoming a parent I've known about 5 children with cancer (I was never aware of any ill children when I was a child), so perhaps this book could be a way of opening up a discussion amongst children/young people.
no rating because I have such mixed feelings, but I certainly hope to hear more from Maryam Master in the future.
August 2, 2021
Moving, meaningful and memorable in so many marvellous ways. Also worthy of re-reads despite the ending, knowing the ending and wishing for a different outcome...as with life, there is sometimes no second reprieve but that does not mean it is not worth living the most beautiful life you can while you can. This is Ana's message which is so eloquently told by Maryam Master.
July 23, 2022
I’m having trouble organising my thoughts on this one and how to rate it, but here’s the breakdown:
It’s a middle grade book about a half Iranian girl in Australia with terminal Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma who’s being bullied at school.
It actually wound up being more about the bullying than anything else. It’s not an inspirational read, and is probably more realistic than people are willing to want to read for fun, though it really glosses over the medical side and doesn’t go too deep into it beside saying: ‘I went to the children’s hospital for treatment’ or ‘I missed a month of school for treatment’ kind of blanket statements. That’s about as extensive as it got. Which does mean it skips a lot of the negative aspects, but I feel it glamourised it a little much by doing so.
What I liked
The writing style. It’s conversational, and very open and honest as it’s intended to be a dying girls journal about life.
The ending. We need more representation like that, showing kids realistic outcomes and how to process. You can’t control other people’s actions or responses, and they need to be able to accept that. Even when it sucks.
The friendships and family dynamics. There’s a lot of love in this book (none of which is romantic) and even with her divorced parents there was just so much love and support for the MC.
The humour. It’s not hilarious, but it is a fun book (despite the heavy topics) and I flew through it.
The way word art was used. I know, random thing to like in a book, but it was really well done and just added that little extra element to reinforce ideas.
What I didn’t like
The white-washed cover. This looks like Anne from the Green Gables, but she’s actually half Iranian and is supposed to look Iranian. I know that’s a cosmetic thing to care about the looks of something, but publishers seriously need to stop wiping minorities from the covers.
The message. This book is actually more about bullying than about dying, but the ‘twist’ that stops her revenge plans… NO. People are not excused from their actions because something bad has happened to them. This was bullying to the point of being spit on every day, taking bets on the day she’ll die, full on police prosecution-able actions, but because they see her be nice at home, they drop it? Even if you find it in yourself to forgive her, what else will she escalate to with another kid in the future if no one says anything? If she needs help, then ignoring it won’t get it for her. And pretty sure her dad would want to know. This whole bit really bugged me. Which was a shame, because it was what the book became about.
Would I recommend it to someone who had cancer or was being bullied: aah… probably not. Actually, if you had cancer, I’d probably say steer clear of this one because it’s not going to do you any favours. It’s very glamourised and skips over the negative aspects and is not really an accurate representation. I think the bullying was portrayed more accurately than the terminal illness was.
It’s a middle grade book about a half Iranian girl in Australia with terminal Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma who’s being bullied at school.
It actually wound up being more about the bullying than anything else. It’s not an inspirational read, and is probably more realistic than people are willing to want to read for fun, though it really glosses over the medical side and doesn’t go too deep into it beside saying: ‘I went to the children’s hospital for treatment’ or ‘I missed a month of school for treatment’ kind of blanket statements. That’s about as extensive as it got. Which does mean it skips a lot of the negative aspects, but I feel it glamourised it a little much by doing so.
What I liked
The writing style. It’s conversational, and very open and honest as it’s intended to be a dying girls journal about life.
The ending. We need more representation like that, showing kids realistic outcomes and how to process. You can’t control other people’s actions or responses, and they need to be able to accept that. Even when it sucks.
The friendships and family dynamics. There’s a lot of love in this book (none of which is romantic) and even with her divorced parents there was just so much love and support for the MC.
The humour. It’s not hilarious, but it is a fun book (despite the heavy topics) and I flew through it.
The way word art was used. I know, random thing to like in a book, but it was really well done and just added that little extra element to reinforce ideas.
What I didn’t like
The white-washed cover. This looks like Anne from the Green Gables, but she’s actually half Iranian and is supposed to look Iranian. I know that’s a cosmetic thing to care about the looks of something, but publishers seriously need to stop wiping minorities from the covers.
The message. This book is actually more about bullying than about dying, but the ‘twist’ that stops her revenge plans… NO. People are not excused from their actions because something bad has happened to them. This was bullying to the point of being spit on every day, taking bets on the day she’ll die, full on police prosecution-able actions, but because they see her be nice at home, they drop it? Even if you find it in yourself to forgive her, what else will she escalate to with another kid in the future if no one says anything? If she needs help, then ignoring it won’t get it for her. And pretty sure her dad would want to know. This whole bit really bugged me. Which was a shame, because it was what the book became about.
Would I recommend it to someone who had cancer or was being bullied: aah… probably not. Actually, if you had cancer, I’d probably say steer clear of this one because it’s not going to do you any favours. It’s very glamourised and skips over the negative aspects and is not really an accurate representation. I think the bullying was portrayed more accurately than the terminal illness was.
August 20, 2021
“So, here’s the thing.
I’m dying.”
Anahita Rosalind Ghorban-Galaszczuk, or Ana for short, has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. According to her doctor she has about a year. Outside of her large extended family she has only told one person – her best friend Al.
They’ve been best friends forever and he’s not weird about it at all. He asks her tons of questions and ends up making her laugh, which is pure Al.
Besides her family and BFF Al, the other big presence in her middle school/intermediate life is Alyssa Anderson aka Butt Breath or Queen Mean. Ana has no idea why Alyssa is so horrible to her. It started years before and has escalated to shaming Ana every chance possible and spitting at her every day when she gets off the bus. Ana’s nose, her name, her parentage (her mum is Iranian, but Ana likes the word Persian better) are all targets for Alyssa.
When Ana decides that it’s the right time to let her school know of her diagnosis, she’s hoping Butt Breath’s bullying will stop. In fact Ana has daydreams about Butt Breath feeling so guilty, she will grovel at her feet. It doesn’t quite work out like that.
If anything, things get worse until Ana has finally had enough. Revenge is going to be sweet and Al and Ana spend hours planning and laughing at the possibilities. They know however, that bullying is serious and even against the law.
All through Ana’s battle with her nemesis, she spends time with her dad and his wife and the crazy menagerie that is their home, and her mum and her hubby Plastic Pat – named due to having continuous ‘work done’ to his face.
She is also dealing with chemo and her down days, feeling sick and scared. Al comes to the rescue when her hair begins falling out, with unexpected awesome results. None of this lessens Butt Breath’s assault, now using social media to increase the hurt.
Ana and Al plan a counter attack, which changes everything.
The first two lines of this book are sobering. Someone is going to pass away. This someone is Ana, a funny, clever, brave 12 and a half year old who is taking every day as it comes. Besides taking time off school for treatment and recovery, she is similar to other middle schoolers/intermediate students – dealing with a bully and hanging out with her bestie.
Except for Alyssa, Ana enjoys school, studying and writing – in fact the book you are reading is an English assignment.
Ana is determined to live ‘her best life’ as her permanently positive mum puts it, and just get on with it. This results in a story that made me laugh out loud, want to hug her and shake my head at another’s behaviour. Illustrations, bold fonts and dictionary entries are plentiful, adding even more fun to Ana’s story.
Don’t worry, there is no sad ending, although Ana loses someone herself. Ana shows us that life isn’t all tidy and neat and neither are endings. People are complicated as is their behaviour, and the best we can do is make the most of things, learn as we go through life and love those around us as much as we can.
A gorgeous, funny story about a girl loving the life she has left. You’ll have to read it to understand its title.
I’m dying.”
Anahita Rosalind Ghorban-Galaszczuk, or Ana for short, has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. According to her doctor she has about a year. Outside of her large extended family she has only told one person – her best friend Al.
They’ve been best friends forever and he’s not weird about it at all. He asks her tons of questions and ends up making her laugh, which is pure Al.
Besides her family and BFF Al, the other big presence in her middle school/intermediate life is Alyssa Anderson aka Butt Breath or Queen Mean. Ana has no idea why Alyssa is so horrible to her. It started years before and has escalated to shaming Ana every chance possible and spitting at her every day when she gets off the bus. Ana’s nose, her name, her parentage (her mum is Iranian, but Ana likes the word Persian better) are all targets for Alyssa.
When Ana decides that it’s the right time to let her school know of her diagnosis, she’s hoping Butt Breath’s bullying will stop. In fact Ana has daydreams about Butt Breath feeling so guilty, she will grovel at her feet. It doesn’t quite work out like that.
If anything, things get worse until Ana has finally had enough. Revenge is going to be sweet and Al and Ana spend hours planning and laughing at the possibilities. They know however, that bullying is serious and even against the law.
All through Ana’s battle with her nemesis, she spends time with her dad and his wife and the crazy menagerie that is their home, and her mum and her hubby Plastic Pat – named due to having continuous ‘work done’ to his face.
She is also dealing with chemo and her down days, feeling sick and scared. Al comes to the rescue when her hair begins falling out, with unexpected awesome results. None of this lessens Butt Breath’s assault, now using social media to increase the hurt.
Ana and Al plan a counter attack, which changes everything.
The first two lines of this book are sobering. Someone is going to pass away. This someone is Ana, a funny, clever, brave 12 and a half year old who is taking every day as it comes. Besides taking time off school for treatment and recovery, she is similar to other middle schoolers/intermediate students – dealing with a bully and hanging out with her bestie.
Except for Alyssa, Ana enjoys school, studying and writing – in fact the book you are reading is an English assignment.
Ana is determined to live ‘her best life’ as her permanently positive mum puts it, and just get on with it. This results in a story that made me laugh out loud, want to hug her and shake my head at another’s behaviour. Illustrations, bold fonts and dictionary entries are plentiful, adding even more fun to Ana’s story.
Don’t worry, there is no sad ending, although Ana loses someone herself. Ana shows us that life isn’t all tidy and neat and neither are endings. People are complicated as is their behaviour, and the best we can do is make the most of things, learn as we go through life and love those around us as much as we can.
A gorgeous, funny story about a girl loving the life she has left. You’ll have to read it to understand its title.
Read
February 8, 2022I have loved reading this beautiful, heartfelt book about hope, courage, loyalty and true guts from someone so young dying of a deadly disease.
Every child and parent should read this book, the world might be a better place.
Not since reading 'Diary of Adrian Mole' all those years ago and having sold so many of them a lifetime ago, have I found a book so similar and unique.
Everyone is bullied at school by someone but having a true friend to help or support you is even more important and special.
I have loved the setup of the book with lots of definitions, the Star Wars analogy, the great illustrations and Shout Out Loud things (Bold & Italics) throughout the book. Eg. Page 124, 141, 191, etc.
You mustn’t read the last page until you get to it, the words of wisdom from Ana are so true and beyond her young years.
A MUST READ!
- Ian
Every child and parent should read this book, the world might be a better place.
Not since reading 'Diary of Adrian Mole' all those years ago and having sold so many of them a lifetime ago, have I found a book so similar and unique.
Everyone is bullied at school by someone but having a true friend to help or support you is even more important and special.
I have loved the setup of the book with lots of definitions, the Star Wars analogy, the great illustrations and Shout Out Loud things (Bold & Italics) throughout the book. Eg. Page 124, 141, 191, etc.
You mustn’t read the last page until you get to it, the words of wisdom from Ana are so true and beyond her young years.
A MUST READ!
- Ian
August 21, 2021
It’s rare that a book comes out that is grounded in telling it like it is with a main characters voice that is full of humour and real-ness.
It’s not a story about feeling sorry or finding a way to garner sympathy or even resolution, it’s a story that conveys the highs and lows of living, even when you have cancer.
What you realise reading this is that Ana won’t and shouldn’t be defined by as the sick girl, nor should anyone else, there are way more important things than that.
The only thing I would note is that some of the references made to pop culture will age quickly, but hopefully not before heaps of enthusiastic readers have read it.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It’s not a story about feeling sorry or finding a way to garner sympathy or even resolution, it’s a story that conveys the highs and lows of living, even when you have cancer.
What you realise reading this is that Ana won’t and shouldn’t be defined by as the sick girl, nor should anyone else, there are way more important things than that.
The only thing I would note is that some of the references made to pop culture will age quickly, but hopefully not before heaps of enthusiastic readers have read it.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2022
How do you write an entertaining, witty book that centres around a terminally ill young girl?
This author certainly nailed it - a heartfelt, touching story that’s told through hopeful and comedic lens that explores deep themes which include terminal illness and bullying featuring a culturally diverse character. The story really hits the spot and gives the reader a unique reading experience from beginning to end.
Quick, easy to follow yet powerful, I read this in one sitting.
With special thanks to Pan Macmillan Australia publishers for sending me a review copy of this book.
This author certainly nailed it - a heartfelt, touching story that’s told through hopeful and comedic lens that explores deep themes which include terminal illness and bullying featuring a culturally diverse character. The story really hits the spot and gives the reader a unique reading experience from beginning to end.
Quick, easy to follow yet powerful, I read this in one sitting.
With special thanks to Pan Macmillan Australia publishers for sending me a review copy of this book.
June 11, 2022
"childhood cancer", "cyber bullying" and "humorous take"
Maybe it sounded like a good idea in 2012 ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Regardless, they are words I least want to see together along with "healthy privilege" and "inauthentic experience" and "not my voice"
Might have flown 10+ years ago when "Sick Lit" was fashionable and romanticised, but ... are we really doing this again?
Maybe it sounded like a good idea in 2012 ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Regardless, they are words I least want to see together along with "healthy privilege" and "inauthentic experience" and "not my voice"
Might have flown 10+ years ago when "Sick Lit" was fashionable and romanticised, but ... are we really doing this again?
July 28, 2022
Beautiful and brilliant.
While I am entirely far too old now to be claiming that I can detect an authentic authors voice for a tween, this felt just right. Like ‘ The very last list of Vivian Walker’, the protagonist knows her fate and doesn’t shy from it. The kids version of a very similar story, I was proud of myself for only tearing up once (the strutting to Beyoncé school hall scene) and it doesn’t cheapen the story with an unlikely tokenistic HEA. I loved the annotations and little illustrations that helped it feel like the product of a 12 year old creating her own biography and leaving her mark on the world, it both strengthens the characterisation and keeps the heavy themes light and mostly uplifting.
Well worthy of the prizes the story has won and should definitely be on every school library shelf.
While I am entirely far too old now to be claiming that I can detect an authentic authors voice for a tween, this felt just right. Like ‘ The very last list of Vivian Walker’, the protagonist knows her fate and doesn’t shy from it. The kids version of a very similar story, I was proud of myself for only tearing up once (the strutting to Beyoncé school hall scene) and it doesn’t cheapen the story with an unlikely tokenistic HEA. I loved the annotations and little illustrations that helped it feel like the product of a 12 year old creating her own biography and leaving her mark on the world, it both strengthens the characterisation and keeps the heavy themes light and mostly uplifting.
Well worthy of the prizes the story has won and should definitely be on every school library shelf.
December 31, 2021
Anahita, known as Ana, is dying. There’s no getting around it. That’s what she’s been told. She has a diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. This story tells of Ana’s experiences at home and at school. Particularly her relationship with her best friend Al and how he supports her. The other key character is Alyssa Anderson – Ana’s nemesis.
How does Anan navigate school, bullying and her health?
I enjoyed the unusual presentation of the story and the illustrations. Both made Anan’s young voice very clear.
Recommended for Tweens – 10-15 years
How does Anan navigate school, bullying and her health?
I enjoyed the unusual presentation of the story and the illustrations. Both made Anan’s young voice very clear.
Recommended for Tweens – 10-15 years
May 25, 2022
Shortlisted for the Children's Book Council of Australia's Book of the Year for Younger Readers, Exit Through the Gift Shop introduces us to Anahita Rosalind Ghorban-Galaszczuk, - Ana for short - a 12.5-year-old girl going through puberty, facing a nemesis, and dying from cancer.
This is a little book packing some big, thought-provoking moments and dealing with some pretty huge topics. The glaringly obvious is its discussion of death from the perspective of a dying pre-teen, who has come to terms with having "about a year left". The author's treatment of cancer is fairly light, allowing younger readers some insight into the disease and treatment while focusing on the power of a positive outlook and a strong support system, such as Ana's family and her best friend Al.
Aside from her struggle with cancer, Ana must also deal with a school bully who has been tormenting her both in-person and online since year 5. The plot of the novel is based around Ana's interactions with Alyssa - her nemesis - as she tries figure out how to stop the harassment.
I must first praise Maryam Master for this book, as I truly believe it covers topics that need to be read by young people - and adults. It's an easy read, aided throughout by Astred Hicks' illustrations, and Ana's personality shines through the words on the pages: her joy, hope, and love are contagious.
I do believe that while Exit Through the Gift Shop delivers great messages of love and gratefulness for all ages, some moments come across as flippant, and the lack of a clear resolution to the issue of cyberbullying could leave young readers with the idea that there are no major consequences for certain actions.
This was a great first novel from Maryam Master, and I look forward to her next release.
This is a little book packing some big, thought-provoking moments and dealing with some pretty huge topics. The glaringly obvious is its discussion of death from the perspective of a dying pre-teen, who has come to terms with having "about a year left". The author's treatment of cancer is fairly light, allowing younger readers some insight into the disease and treatment while focusing on the power of a positive outlook and a strong support system, such as Ana's family and her best friend Al.
Aside from her struggle with cancer, Ana must also deal with a school bully who has been tormenting her both in-person and online since year 5. The plot of the novel is based around Ana's interactions with Alyssa - her nemesis - as she tries figure out how to stop the harassment.
I must first praise Maryam Master for this book, as I truly believe it covers topics that need to be read by young people - and adults. It's an easy read, aided throughout by Astred Hicks' illustrations, and Ana's personality shines through the words on the pages: her joy, hope, and love are contagious.
I do believe that while Exit Through the Gift Shop delivers great messages of love and gratefulness for all ages, some moments come across as flippant, and the lack of a clear resolution to the issue of cyberbullying could leave young readers with the idea that there are no major consequences for certain actions.
This was a great first novel from Maryam Master, and I look forward to her next release.
June 24, 2022
Heart warming story told in first person. Ana is dealing with bullying and dying. Her tale is warm and funny. Skirts the edges of the icky realities of cancer. Highly suitable for young readers.
October 21, 2021
While teenagers would probably be the target audience for this book, this old lady enjoyed it and learnt a few life lessons from Ana’s story. Written with a strong, credible personal voice I really cared about Ana when things were difficult, and smiled at her sense of humour and positivity. A most enjoyable read.
January 9, 2025
Listened to as an audiobook on long drive and that defo counts for the lower rating. You don’t get to decide the voices in your head and the tone is set for you. I didn’t really vibe with the reader and felt like I would have enjoyed this more as a book at my own pace.
April 12, 2022
Hear warming but a really funny book. Towards the end I was crying 😢
September 20, 2021
This was not my usual type of read but it came strongly recommended so I gave it a go and I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed Ana's "wild roller-coaster of life and death, kindness and cruelty, ordinary and extraordinary".
Ana is a 12.5 year old girl dying of cancer with about 1 year to live. She decides to write an English assignment about that last year of her life. She is a down to earth character who has accepted her fate. So maybe you'd be right to think this is a book/diary about sadness, bravery, treatments and doom and gloom. Yes it is in a small part but it also has a lot of funny moments, moments of self discovery and understanding. Its about friendships, bullies, revenge and acceptance.
The book is a short heartfelt inspiring quick read, with humour and expression shown through funny illustrations and changes in font. A great book for senior primary and intermediate readers alike
Ana is a 12.5 year old girl dying of cancer with about 1 year to live. She decides to write an English assignment about that last year of her life. She is a down to earth character who has accepted her fate. So maybe you'd be right to think this is a book/diary about sadness, bravery, treatments and doom and gloom. Yes it is in a small part but it also has a lot of funny moments, moments of self discovery and understanding. Its about friendships, bullies, revenge and acceptance.
The book is a short heartfelt inspiring quick read, with humour and expression shown through funny illustrations and changes in font. A great book for senior primary and intermediate readers alike
July 8, 2021
Wow. I just finished Exit through the Gift Shop and it is amazing. Such a beautifully written book which should be put in everyone’s hands. Death is never an easy topic but this book hits it will all of the most wonderfully heartfelt inspiring heartbreaking way.
The best book about how to live that I have read in years.
The best book about how to live that I have read in years.
April 9, 2022
12.5 year old Ana, with Iranian heritage, tells her story - the last year of her life after being diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She loves her complicated family - with divorced parents, new parnters and and in dad's case a string of siblings and her best friend Al. but school is hard without being sick because of Alyssa (Queen Mean) Anderson and her constant bullying. Once Ana decides to elt the school know that she is sick, Alyssa fakes care and concern to take snaps and troll her online. The resolution to the bulying isinteresting - as she and Al plot revenge, explore legal avenues, discover the cause and eventually tell her family and finally work with the counselor. None of it is successful but all of it leads to Ana realising that life is too good and too precious to be derailed by one mean person.
This book is quite amazing - Master's has explored a sad and tragic topic with humour, compassion and realistic and down-to-earth perspective. The audio version is engaging, full of clever and light hearted moments and expertly performed to capture not only an authentic voice for Ana but also the representation of the crazy, questioning and ever supportive Al. Apparently the book format has illustrations that are also humorous.
This book could so easily be a tear jerker but it is not - it rises above sentimentality to give a sense of hope and purpose in our lives -whether they be short or long. However, I am not sure how this would be received by youngsters living with their own, or a loved ones, incurable fatal disease - and I would advise reading first and evaluating its appropriateness when sharing with others. Easy to read when you are well and healthy but for those in difficult circumstances the joy of living that Ana enthuses could be overwhelming.
A 2022 CBCA Shortlisted title for the Younger Readers category
This book is quite amazing - Master's has explored a sad and tragic topic with humour, compassion and realistic and down-to-earth perspective. The audio version is engaging, full of clever and light hearted moments and expertly performed to capture not only an authentic voice for Ana but also the representation of the crazy, questioning and ever supportive Al. Apparently the book format has illustrations that are also humorous.
This book could so easily be a tear jerker but it is not - it rises above sentimentality to give a sense of hope and purpose in our lives -whether they be short or long. However, I am not sure how this would be received by youngsters living with their own, or a loved ones, incurable fatal disease - and I would advise reading first and evaluating its appropriateness when sharing with others. Easy to read when you are well and healthy but for those in difficult circumstances the joy of living that Ana enthuses could be overwhelming.
A 2022 CBCA Shortlisted title for the Younger Readers category
February 23, 2024
I love how when you read a good book you instantly know whether you are going to enjoy it. By page 18 I was already in love with Ana and her story and couldn't wait to read the rest. This book has been on my to read list for about a year, and an excellent talk by the author Maryam Master this week elevated it to top of the list.
Exit Through the Gift Shop tells us the story of Ana, a 12.5 yo girl dealing with the fact that she has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. A heavy premise for a middle grade novel, but delivered with a light touch. There is a lot of humour in this story, along with some (generally) excellent perspective on the things that really matter.
This was a particularly poignant book for me, having had my wife diagnosed with cancer 12 months ago, and my daughter diagnosed with a serious health condition just this week. So dealing with cancer, chemo and the associated issues, along with a young woman facing her mortality, hit home hard.
Maryam, an Iranian-Australian, has been very smart in the way she has written this for a wider audience. This in no way felt 'Australian' and I presume this was deliberately writing for a US audience and beyond. I hope it gets the traction and attention overseas it deserves.
Exit Through the Gift Shop tells us the story of Ana, a 12.5 yo girl dealing with the fact that she has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. A heavy premise for a middle grade novel, but delivered with a light touch. There is a lot of humour in this story, along with some (generally) excellent perspective on the things that really matter.
This was a particularly poignant book for me, having had my wife diagnosed with cancer 12 months ago, and my daughter diagnosed with a serious health condition just this week. So dealing with cancer, chemo and the associated issues, along with a young woman facing her mortality, hit home hard.
Maryam, an Iranian-Australian, has been very smart in the way she has written this for a wider audience. This in no way felt 'Australian' and I presume this was deliberately writing for a US audience and beyond. I hope it gets the traction and attention overseas it deserves.
July 1, 2022
This first person POV narrative is relatable, contemporary, cute, quirky, sad, and reflective. It gives us a look into ordinary and unordinary tweenage experiences. Even though this trope has been heavily written in the past few years, Exit Through the Gift Shop provides a unique enough perspective for middle years. While hope is powerful and important, not everything ends well.
“In the end none of it matters and all of it matters.”
“In the end none of it matters and all of it matters.”
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