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Il nascondiglio
Billy McKenna è un ragazzo che fugge da una situazione difficile a casa e si rifugia in un tetro cimitero invaso dalla vegetazione. Mentre la madre e la polizia iniziano a cercarlo, nel suo nascondiglio Billy incontra un uomo anziano che si prende cura delle tombe. Il primo giorno di novembre è vicino, si avverte nell'aria che sta per accadere qualcosa di molto speciale... Età di lettura: da 12 anni.
248 pages, Hardcover
First published September 9, 2021
9 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
Pam Smy
24 books113 followersPam Smy studied Illustration at Cambridge School of Art, part of Anglia Ruskin University, where she now lectures part-time. Pam has illustrated books by Conan Doyle (The Hound of the Baskervilles), Julia Donaldson (Follow the Swallow) and Kathy Henderson (Hush, Baby, Hush!), among others. She lives in Cambridge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
December 6, 2021
the hideaway's beautiful cover gives just a taste of its illustrations. they're lovely, and perhaps the highlight of the book.
more than anything else, this is a story about domestic abuse. young billy runs away to a cemetery to escape an abusive stepparent, and to take a breather until his long-suffering mother finally notices his absence. considering it's a children's novel, i suppose the heavy topic is handled alright; but it all comes off as very simplistic. there is no nuance, and no depth to the characters or their relationships.
the language is vividly descriptive, especially the atmospheric cemetery imagery. there are also boxcar children and from the mixed-up files of mrs. basil e. frankweiler vibes, since it's about a rather independent young runaway, and that type of story is always fun!
i actually really enjoyed the big twist, but whoa, what an abrupt ending! everything is left hanging and unresolved.
it's a quick read, and obviously geared toward kids, so i can't be too disappointed. but i imagine there are many other books that handle the tricky subject matter with more nuance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pavilion Books for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
more than anything else, this is a story about domestic abuse. young billy runs away to a cemetery to escape an abusive stepparent, and to take a breather until his long-suffering mother finally notices his absence. considering it's a children's novel, i suppose the heavy topic is handled alright; but it all comes off as very simplistic. there is no nuance, and no depth to the characters or their relationships.
the language is vividly descriptive, especially the atmospheric cemetery imagery. there are also boxcar children and from the mixed-up files of mrs. basil e. frankweiler vibes, since it's about a rather independent young runaway, and that type of story is always fun!
i actually really enjoyed the big twist, but whoa, what an abrupt ending! everything is left hanging and unresolved.
it's a quick read, and obviously geared toward kids, so i can't be too disappointed. but i imagine there are many other books that handle the tricky subject matter with more nuance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pavilion Books for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
September 27, 2021
"He felt a greater sense of comfort out here in a pillbox in a graveyard, in the dark, than he did in his own home."
Pam Smy has been on my radar since the release of her first book but this is my first experience with reading one. I knew that it was going to be something that would stick with me forever and I was right.
This one caught my attention, not only when I first saw who the author was but by that beautiful cover. It instantly caught my attention and I couldn’t look away. Everything about it is absolutely brilliant. The colors and the illustration together are something that stands out from others.
The story was a heavy and important one. Stories involving domestic abuse always get me emotional and this story affected me deeply. With every turn of the page, I found myself getting teary-eyed with goosebumps traveling up my arms. It really makes you realize that kids see more than you think.
As we travel through the story, there are hauntingly beautiful illustrations placed throughout. Together they made this a phenomenal book. Everything about this book was fantastic and I can’t wait to own a copy.
The Hideaway was a perfect story with a hopeful ending. It will break your heart and mend it before it’s over. I love this book and it’s one I’ll always remember. I can’t wait to read it again.
Pam Smy has been on my radar since the release of her first book but this is my first experience with reading one. I knew that it was going to be something that would stick with me forever and I was right.
This one caught my attention, not only when I first saw who the author was but by that beautiful cover. It instantly caught my attention and I couldn’t look away. Everything about it is absolutely brilliant. The colors and the illustration together are something that stands out from others.
The story was a heavy and important one. Stories involving domestic abuse always get me emotional and this story affected me deeply. With every turn of the page, I found myself getting teary-eyed with goosebumps traveling up my arms. It really makes you realize that kids see more than you think.
As we travel through the story, there are hauntingly beautiful illustrations placed throughout. Together they made this a phenomenal book. Everything about this book was fantastic and I can’t wait to own a copy.
The Hideaway was a perfect story with a hopeful ending. It will break your heart and mend it before it’s over. I love this book and it’s one I’ll always remember. I can’t wait to read it again.
October 9, 2021
Billy has run away from home. He hides away in a graveyard for several days, camping out in an old brick shelter with his backpack and sleeping bag. His mother is desperate to find her missing son, and she works with the police to start a search.
This story is told from two main perspectives, Billy and his mother. The two have a very close and affectionate relationship, but all is not well in Billy's home, prompting him to run away. The writing perfectly balances the multiple points of views from the different characters, showing their distinct voices. There is such an appealing charm in the writing style that it draws you right in to the story, and makes the characters very endearing and relatable.
I loved this book so much! The writing is excellent, the plot is wonderful, the characters are complex; this book has everything! I was completely fascinated with every scene, and I cried at the end. I was glad that it's not scary at all, but has lovely ghostly moods in the graveyard. I enjoyed the slightly creepy elements in the story.
So many deep themes are explored as Billy deals with issues of abandonment, domestic violence, and family loyalties. These are complex issues with many perspectives and sides, and I thought this book did such a wonderful job of addressing these sensitive topics with tenderness and understanding, but showing the reality as well. Billy discovers that all families have heartache, and that it can make you a stronger person and bring you closer together if dealt with in the right way.
Billy is a wonderful main character. His innocence and sensitivity made me love him immediately. He is thoughtful and intelligent, and I loved to see how deeply he connects with other characters that he meets. He is such a vivid and emotional character, and he made me feel emotional too.
Billy's mother is very sweet too. She's trapped in a difficult situation, and I was amazed by her resilience, and I was proud of her courage to take action and do something to help her son (and herself). She is a complex woman in a complex situation, and I was impressed with how the writing made her very real and relatable.
The supporting characters were not as complex, but I did like seeing their reactions within the main story and how they connected with Billy and his mother.
The black and white illustrations draw the reader right into the moment. Each scene is beautifully illustrated with such lovely delicate art. I love the way the shadows in the art mirror the emotions of each scene. The artwork makes this book truly special!
Triggers for domestic violence.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
This story is told from two main perspectives, Billy and his mother. The two have a very close and affectionate relationship, but all is not well in Billy's home, prompting him to run away. The writing perfectly balances the multiple points of views from the different characters, showing their distinct voices. There is such an appealing charm in the writing style that it draws you right in to the story, and makes the characters very endearing and relatable.
I loved this book so much! The writing is excellent, the plot is wonderful, the characters are complex; this book has everything! I was completely fascinated with every scene, and I cried at the end. I was glad that it's not scary at all, but has lovely ghostly moods in the graveyard. I enjoyed the slightly creepy elements in the story.
So many deep themes are explored as Billy deals with issues of abandonment, domestic violence, and family loyalties. These are complex issues with many perspectives and sides, and I thought this book did such a wonderful job of addressing these sensitive topics with tenderness and understanding, but showing the reality as well. Billy discovers that all families have heartache, and that it can make you a stronger person and bring you closer together if dealt with in the right way.
Billy is a wonderful main character. His innocence and sensitivity made me love him immediately. He is thoughtful and intelligent, and I loved to see how deeply he connects with other characters that he meets. He is such a vivid and emotional character, and he made me feel emotional too.
Billy's mother is very sweet too. She's trapped in a difficult situation, and I was amazed by her resilience, and I was proud of her courage to take action and do something to help her son (and herself). She is a complex woman in a complex situation, and I was impressed with how the writing made her very real and relatable.
The supporting characters were not as complex, but I did like seeing their reactions within the main story and how they connected with Billy and his mother.
The black and white illustrations draw the reader right into the moment. Each scene is beautifully illustrated with such lovely delicate art. I love the way the shadows in the art mirror the emotions of each scene. The artwork makes this book truly special!
Triggers for domestic violence.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
October 4, 2021
THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING.
Here is a story about a boy who is having problems at home - he loves his mom but he can't take the fights anymore. The fights between his mom's boyfriend and his mom. So he moves into a graveyard.
We follow two POVs in this story. On is the boy which is matched with beautiful full page illustrations. The other is the mom and police officers trying to find him. This POV has no illustrations and was so gripping to have that distinction.
I was drawn in from the beginning. The artwork as AMAZING and the story was compelling. It felt like an ageless story. I actually sobbed heavily when I got to the end of this book, and had to pause multiple times to clear my vision while reading.
There are quit a few trigger warnings to go with this book - the biggest being domestic abuse. I think this would be a perfect book for young readers to better understand what someone else might be going through.
Also the ending has a beautifully magical.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pavilion Children's for giving me a copy of this graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.
Here is a story about a boy who is having problems at home - he loves his mom but he can't take the fights anymore. The fights between his mom's boyfriend and his mom. So he moves into a graveyard.
We follow two POVs in this story. On is the boy which is matched with beautiful full page illustrations. The other is the mom and police officers trying to find him. This POV has no illustrations and was so gripping to have that distinction.
I was drawn in from the beginning. The artwork as AMAZING and the story was compelling. It felt like an ageless story. I actually sobbed heavily when I got to the end of this book, and had to pause multiple times to clear my vision while reading.
There are quit a few trigger warnings to go with this book - the biggest being domestic abuse. I think this would be a perfect book for young readers to better understand what someone else might be going through.
Also the ending has a beautifully magical.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pavilion Children's for giving me a copy of this graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2022
I promise not to give away too much. Billy McKenna, fed up with the domestic violence in his home, runs away and ends up hiding in a graveyard. What follows is a wonderful middle-grade novel about community and hope that readers of any age will love.
I absolutely adored Thornhill, the first novel Pam Smy both wrote and illustrated, and Thornhill’s shocking ending. This is a very different but equally stunning book, which belongs in every school library.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Pavilion Books in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely adored Thornhill, the first novel Pam Smy both wrote and illustrated, and Thornhill’s shocking ending. This is a very different but equally stunning book, which belongs in every school library.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Pavilion Books in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2021
Targeted at an 11- 14 age group, this sensitive illustrated book explores the issue of domestic abuse from the point of view of 13 year old Billy. Tough but hopeful.
March 27, 2022
Bra bok om våld I hemmet. Historien är uppdelad ifrån sonen och mammans perspektiv vilket var en bra växling. Historien flöt på mycket bra och slutet var fint och välgjort.
December 1, 2023
Prachtige illustraties
December 22, 2021
The Hideaway is a powerful read which covers heavy topics. The illustrations are really good and add to the story.
October 18, 2023
In questa opera affascinante pubblicata da Uovonero Edizioni, il protagonista Billy, stanco e sfinito dalle continue violenze domestiche che subisce sua madre a casa,si lancia in una fuga disperata che lo porta a trovare rifugio in un cimitero. È qui, tra le tombe e le ombre, avrà degli episodi che cambieranno la sua vita per sempre.
“Il nascondiglio” mi ha suscitato tante emozioni, le illustrazioni di Pam Smy, straordinariamente magnifiche, conferiscono all'opera un'atmosfera tenebrosa, ma allo stesso tempo magica e dolce. L'arte di Smy è unica, e il suo stile inconfondibile brilla in ogni pagina.
Anni fa, avevo già avuto l'onore di leggere "Thornhill" dell'autrice e mi ero perdutamente innamorata del suo modo di raccontare e disegnare.
Le immagini danzano intorno alle parole in un connubio perfetto, creando un vortice di emozioni indimenticabili, poiché un aspetto distintivo del suo stile è la capacità di integrare perfettamente le illustrazioni con il testo. Le immagini circondano e si fondono con le parole, creando una connessione profonda tra la componente visiva e quella narrativa del libro e questa cosa l’ho apprezzata davvero tantissimo!
Smy è maestra nel catturare una vasta gamma di dettagli nei suoi disegni, rendendo ogni pagina ricca di elementi visivi che arricchiscono la storia e di conseguenza durante la lettura ti ritroverai ad ammirare ogni angolo.
Il libro tratta certe tematiche con una delicatezza incredibile, un profondo rispetto per il tema e la potenza delle emozioni che riesce a trasmettere questa storia é davvero innegabile.
Non pensate che sia solo una storia ambientata in un cimitero durante il periodo di Halloween, é molto di più, é un'opera che abbraccia la mente e il cuore, incanalando la bellezza e il potere delle parole e delle immagini.
Imperdibile se amate i libri illustrati magnificamente ed emozionanti, ma al tempo stesso perfetti per questo periodo dell’anno🎃👻
“Il nascondiglio” mi ha suscitato tante emozioni, le illustrazioni di Pam Smy, straordinariamente magnifiche, conferiscono all'opera un'atmosfera tenebrosa, ma allo stesso tempo magica e dolce. L'arte di Smy è unica, e il suo stile inconfondibile brilla in ogni pagina.
Anni fa, avevo già avuto l'onore di leggere "Thornhill" dell'autrice e mi ero perdutamente innamorata del suo modo di raccontare e disegnare.
Le immagini danzano intorno alle parole in un connubio perfetto, creando un vortice di emozioni indimenticabili, poiché un aspetto distintivo del suo stile è la capacità di integrare perfettamente le illustrazioni con il testo. Le immagini circondano e si fondono con le parole, creando una connessione profonda tra la componente visiva e quella narrativa del libro e questa cosa l’ho apprezzata davvero tantissimo!
Smy è maestra nel catturare una vasta gamma di dettagli nei suoi disegni, rendendo ogni pagina ricca di elementi visivi che arricchiscono la storia e di conseguenza durante la lettura ti ritroverai ad ammirare ogni angolo.
Il libro tratta certe tematiche con una delicatezza incredibile, un profondo rispetto per il tema e la potenza delle emozioni che riesce a trasmettere questa storia é davvero innegabile.
Non pensate che sia solo una storia ambientata in un cimitero durante il periodo di Halloween, é molto di più, é un'opera che abbraccia la mente e il cuore, incanalando la bellezza e il potere delle parole e delle immagini.
Imperdibile se amate i libri illustrati magnificamente ed emozionanti, ma al tempo stesso perfetti per questo periodo dell’anno🎃👻
July 4, 2021
*I was sent a proof copy by the publisher*
Having read Thornhill and loved Smy's fusion between written narrative and graphic novel style, I was very happy to read The Hideaway. Although it also touches on sensitive topics, the focus here is on a young teenage boy who runs away from home when no longer being able to cope with watching his mother being domestically abused by her partner. This is something that has gone on for years and Billy, feeling utterly powerless, runs off to the local cemetery where he finds an ivy-laden pillbox and takes camp.
What follows then is a series of narratives from a range of characters who are involved in the story in a variety of ways. Together they begin to unravel Billy's story...and his mum's and everything comes together in a beautiful, unearthly ending pure and touching and full of hope. It's a stunning second novel from Pam Smy.
Having read Thornhill and loved Smy's fusion between written narrative and graphic novel style, I was very happy to read The Hideaway. Although it also touches on sensitive topics, the focus here is on a young teenage boy who runs away from home when no longer being able to cope with watching his mother being domestically abused by her partner. This is something that has gone on for years and Billy, feeling utterly powerless, runs off to the local cemetery where he finds an ivy-laden pillbox and takes camp.
What follows then is a series of narratives from a range of characters who are involved in the story in a variety of ways. Together they begin to unravel Billy's story...and his mum's and everything comes together in a beautiful, unearthly ending pure and touching and full of hope. It's a stunning second novel from Pam Smy.
January 29, 2022
While I wish this had been written in the same manner as Smy's previous middle grade novel, Thornhill, with half the story told only in images and the other half only in text, I still enjoyed this much more hopeful, quiet read. The strongest pages are those where there is no text, but apart from a content warning for domestic abuse, this is easy to recommend, especially if you prefer your creepy with a dollop of light.
May 29, 2024
Dit verhaal - deels geschreven, deels getekend - gaat over Billy die op een avond van huis wegloopt, omdat hij het thuis niet meer kan uithouden. Enkele dagen volgen we de jongen terwijl hij een schuilplaats zoekt en vindt, mensen zijn schuilplaats ontdekken en hoe zijn verlangen om weer terug naar huis te gaan met de dag groeit. Het verhaal gaat echter vooral over de reden achter het weglopen.
Een uitstekend maar heftig boek waarover gesproken moet worden. Vanaf 13+ of onder goede begeleiding in groep 7/8. Over keuzes, een helpende hand uitsteken, doen wat juist is.
Het einde was misschien iets te toevallig en de magische realistische wending voegt weinig toe aan de inhoud, toch emotioneerde het me. Ik vond het erg goed.
Een uitstekend maar heftig boek waarover gesproken moet worden. Vanaf 13+ of onder goede begeleiding in groep 7/8. Over keuzes, een helpende hand uitsteken, doen wat juist is.
Het einde was misschien iets te toevallig en de magische realistische wending voegt weinig toe aan de inhoud, toch emotioneerde het me. Ik vond het erg goed.
April 14, 2023
So poignant and so stunningly illustrated
September 10, 2023
10+. Getipt in de grote vriendelijke podcast. Verhaal over huiselijk geweld met een originele twist. Zeker wel een aanrader.
July 27, 2024
Hartverscheurend verhaal over huiselijk geweld met een interessante bovennatuurlijke twist aan het einde.
4,5✨️
4,5✨️
October 19, 2022
A very touching story, told alongside beautiful illustrations.
Billy, a thirteen year old boy, escapes to an old pillbox, hidden in his local graveyard, running away from a bad home life. A local elderly man discovers him, and, after Billy begs not to be turned in, and to have some more time to figure things out, they come to an agreement that Billy will spend three days helping him to tidy up the graveyard…
A true gem of a book, perfect for an autumnal day.
TW for domestic abuse
Billy, a thirteen year old boy, escapes to an old pillbox, hidden in his local graveyard, running away from a bad home life. A local elderly man discovers him, and, after Billy begs not to be turned in, and to have some more time to figure things out, they come to an agreement that Billy will spend three days helping him to tidy up the graveyard…
A true gem of a book, perfect for an autumnal day.
TW for domestic abuse
July 4, 2022
4.5⭐
A beautiful and moving read that had me tearing up!
I enjoyed the atmospheric setting and engaging story. The cover and illustrations are both stunning. There was one scene where it was just page after page of textless illustrations, which I loved so much. What a powerful, haunting and emotional moment! And no words needed!
Even though Billy frustrated me at times, I could totally understand his actions and decisions. The book does a profound job of exploring domestic violence and what survivors go through (as well as their thought processes) despite being a relative quick read.
Some parts of the story were a bit over-simplistic for me and I would have loved more detail, but I think it's perfect for its intended audience.
A beautiful and moving read that had me tearing up!
I enjoyed the atmospheric setting and engaging story. The cover and illustrations are both stunning. There was one scene where it was just page after page of textless illustrations, which I loved so much. What a powerful, haunting and emotional moment! And no words needed!
Even though Billy frustrated me at times, I could totally understand his actions and decisions. The book does a profound job of exploring domestic violence and what survivors go through (as well as their thought processes) despite being a relative quick read.
Some parts of the story were a bit over-simplistic for me and I would have loved more detail, but I think it's perfect for its intended audience.
March 24, 2022
È stata una lettura davvero coinvolgente e magnetica, con una prosa delicata e commovente, ho amato che l’autrice abbia unito l’importanza di una storia tristemente attuale di violenza domestica, con ambientazioni dark gotiche e vibrazioni da ghost story. Come storia mi ha davvero conquistata, inoltre le illustrazioni che accompagnano la lettura sono stupende!
November 19, 2021
This book made me cry. What an ending!
Read
November 19, 2023
Trigger & Content Warnings
Sexual assault
Domestic violence
Sexual assault
Domestic violence
January 30, 2025
Si eres un adolescente, no estás seguro en casa, en donde te refugiarías?
Esta es la historia de un adolescente que ya no está seguro en casa, su madre pelea muy seguido y es violentada por su pareja casi a diario, el ya no puede soportarlo más y decide que lo mejor es irse de allí al no tener a donde ir se refugia en un cementerio en donde tratará de pensar que hacer ya que no puede estar allí mucho tiempo, en este proceso de pensar que hacer un señor de mayor edad lo encuentra promete guardar el secreto de que el está allí aunque no mucho tiempo a cambio de que lo ayude a limpiar el cementerio para un evento, el niño acepta aun que un poco extrañado no sabe de que se trata ese evento y debe buscar otro lugar para vivir antes de que todos se enteren de que el se ha ido de casa.
Amigos que libro, me ha encantado, desde la cubierta hasta los cantos que son de color negro (arriba les dejo imagen de ello) hasta las ilustraciónes son en blanco y negro y enormes todas las páginas están decoradas y son hermosas 😍 en algún punto de la historia encontrarás ilustraciones de una página entera es simplemente una maravilla visual.
La historia me ha gustado mucho te deja ver el transfondo de porque este chico a tomado esa decisión y también vemos a la madre que con ayuda de la policía empieza a abrir los ojos a la realidad sin dejar de buscar a su hijo. Un tema delicado muy bien manejado por la autora es un libro ligero de leer, adictivo simplemente se los recomiendo. La parte del evento en el cementerio los va a dejar así 🤯 no la vi venir 👌🏻
Además este libro es de la autora de Thornhill un libro muy popular el año pasado así que si te gusta la pluma de la autora o no la conoces dale una oportunidad no falla.
Y tú lo has leído?
Te animas a leerlo?
Te leo en los comentarios
Si te gustó esta reseña no olvides seguirme en mis redes sociales: YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Threads y Babelio me encuentras como: El_Bookle ✨
Un bucle sin fin de lecturas y libros 📚 🤗
Esta es la historia de un adolescente que ya no está seguro en casa, su madre pelea muy seguido y es violentada por su pareja casi a diario, el ya no puede soportarlo más y decide que lo mejor es irse de allí al no tener a donde ir se refugia en un cementerio en donde tratará de pensar que hacer ya que no puede estar allí mucho tiempo, en este proceso de pensar que hacer un señor de mayor edad lo encuentra promete guardar el secreto de que el está allí aunque no mucho tiempo a cambio de que lo ayude a limpiar el cementerio para un evento, el niño acepta aun que un poco extrañado no sabe de que se trata ese evento y debe buscar otro lugar para vivir antes de que todos se enteren de que el se ha ido de casa.
Amigos que libro, me ha encantado, desde la cubierta hasta los cantos que son de color negro (arriba les dejo imagen de ello) hasta las ilustraciónes son en blanco y negro y enormes todas las páginas están decoradas y son hermosas 😍 en algún punto de la historia encontrarás ilustraciones de una página entera es simplemente una maravilla visual.
La historia me ha gustado mucho te deja ver el transfondo de porque este chico a tomado esa decisión y también vemos a la madre que con ayuda de la policía empieza a abrir los ojos a la realidad sin dejar de buscar a su hijo. Un tema delicado muy bien manejado por la autora es un libro ligero de leer, adictivo simplemente se los recomiendo. La parte del evento en el cementerio los va a dejar así 🤯 no la vi venir 👌🏻
Además este libro es de la autora de Thornhill un libro muy popular el año pasado así que si te gusta la pluma de la autora o no la conoces dale una oportunidad no falla.
Y tú lo has leído?
Te animas a leerlo?
Te leo en los comentarios
Si te gustó esta reseña no olvides seguirme en mis redes sociales: YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Threads y Babelio me encuentras como: El_Bookle ✨
Un bucle sin fin de lecturas y libros 📚 🤗
October 29, 2021
Jag tyckte väldigt mycket om Thornhill och var därför pepp på att läsa den här. Gömstället är lika stämningsfullt illustrerad och författaren blandar även här allvarlig realism med övernaturliga inslag. Gott så.
Den här boken är särskilt passande att läsa nu till halloween. Det handlar bland annat om vad som händer på kyrkogården på alla helgons natt. Det är en spännande scen. På kyrkogården befinner sig Billy, 12 år, som rymt hemifrån för att hans styvpappa slår Billys mamma. Viktig och bra handling som kanske inte kan vara alltför verklighetstrogen eftersom den riktar sig till barn.
Det är den inte heller. Karaktärerna är på tok för ensidiga för min smak. Ploten är alltför tillrättalagd och säcken knyts ihop sådär olidligt perfekt. Jag hade önskat att Pam Smy vågade vara lite mer obekväm.
Det hör väl inte hit men jag vill rekommendera serien Vargen kommer (dansk dramaserie) som är en fantastisk och realistisk skildring på samma tema. Att se den är som att gå en grundkurs i mäns våld mot kvinnor. Det är det inte att läsa den här boken, men kanske kan något barn känna igen sig och förhoppningsvis finna mod att försöka förändra sin situation.
Den här boken är särskilt passande att läsa nu till halloween. Det handlar bland annat om vad som händer på kyrkogården på alla helgons natt. Det är en spännande scen. På kyrkogården befinner sig Billy, 12 år, som rymt hemifrån för att hans styvpappa slår Billys mamma. Viktig och bra handling som kanske inte kan vara alltför verklighetstrogen eftersom den riktar sig till barn.
Det är den inte heller. Karaktärerna är på tok för ensidiga för min smak. Ploten är alltför tillrättalagd och säcken knyts ihop sådär olidligt perfekt. Jag hade önskat att Pam Smy vågade vara lite mer obekväm.
Det hör väl inte hit men jag vill rekommendera serien Vargen kommer (dansk dramaserie) som är en fantastisk och realistisk skildring på samma tema. Att se den är som att gå en grundkurs i mäns våld mot kvinnor. Det är det inte att läsa den här boken, men kanske kan något barn känna igen sig och förhoppningsvis finna mod att försöka förändra sin situation.
November 28, 2021
Thirteen year old Billy has finally had enough. At first, when Jeff came into their lives things were fun. But then came the yelling, the hitting, the fear. Billy can't stand the way his mom shrinks away, becoming a shell of the person she used to be. Unable to cope any longer, Billy runs away to hide in the overgrown grounds of the cemetery. The story is told in dual perspective as the reader witnesses Billy's experiences as a runaway and the aftermath at home when the police get involved.
The book takes place at a cemetery near Halloween and I really liked the element of curiosity that came along with it. Without spoiling anything, I'll just say that I liked the unexpected ending and found it very fitting for the setting. The book has beautiful, eerie illustrations throughout, adding to the atmosphere. I really enjoyed the imagery of the graveyard and thought it added a wonderful touch to the already haunting story. This is a relatively short story that delves into a very difficult topic. I thought it was very well written and covered multiple perspectives on the matter. Trigger warning for domestic abuse as this is a very strong theme throughout the whole book. If you like reading about serious topics from a fictional perspective, this one is a quick read and very aesthetic.
The book takes place at a cemetery near Halloween and I really liked the element of curiosity that came along with it. Without spoiling anything, I'll just say that I liked the unexpected ending and found it very fitting for the setting. The book has beautiful, eerie illustrations throughout, adding to the atmosphere. I really enjoyed the imagery of the graveyard and thought it added a wonderful touch to the already haunting story. This is a relatively short story that delves into a very difficult topic. I thought it was very well written and covered multiple perspectives on the matter. Trigger warning for domestic abuse as this is a very strong theme throughout the whole book. If you like reading about serious topics from a fictional perspective, this one is a quick read and very aesthetic.
October 5, 2021
In The Hideaway, readers are immediately immersed into Billy's difficult family life. He and his single mom were quite happy until she met Jeff. But when Jeff's protectiveness turned controlling and then abusive, Billy retreated within. Until he refuses to retreat anymore.
After hearing yet another argument that he knows will end with Jeff hurting his mom, Billy runs away to a hidden cove in a graveyard he's already scouted out. He doesn't have many plans other than to stay away from the home life he can no longer endure.
But his stay keeps getting interrupted by people. An old man turns up and tells Billy he needs to help him clean the forsaken graveyard. With nothing else to do, Billy helps. But he can't figure out why the old man is so keen on clearing things out and for what event he's working hard toward.
Use your best judgement when giving this book to your children to read. This novel deals with an absentee father, domestic violence, potential date rape, violence toward women, keeping secrets from parents, and running away to solve problems.
More details and my complete review can be read here: http://agoodreid.blogspot.com/2021/10...
After hearing yet another argument that he knows will end with Jeff hurting his mom, Billy runs away to a hidden cove in a graveyard he's already scouted out. He doesn't have many plans other than to stay away from the home life he can no longer endure.
But his stay keeps getting interrupted by people. An old man turns up and tells Billy he needs to help him clean the forsaken graveyard. With nothing else to do, Billy helps. But he can't figure out why the old man is so keen on clearing things out and for what event he's working hard toward.
Use your best judgement when giving this book to your children to read. This novel deals with an absentee father, domestic violence, potential date rape, violence toward women, keeping secrets from parents, and running away to solve problems.
More details and my complete review can be read here: http://agoodreid.blogspot.com/2021/10...
October 23, 2021
⚠️ TW: Domestic violence, sexual assault ⚠️
This book is such an emotional rollercoaster and really tugs at your heart strings! This book follows the story of Billy McKenna who is a young boy who runs away from a difficult home life and takes refuge in a graveyard. Whilst hiding out in the overgrowth he meets an elderly man who is preparing the graveyard for the magical and supernatural night of All Souls' Eve. This book got me so badly and I cried so much. The chapters alternate pov's between Billy and his mother in a way that weaves such an incredibly compelling, emotional and heartwarming storyline that really stays with you and it is written so well from both perspectives. Throughout the whole thing I just wanted to bundle them both in a hug! Also, it is filled with stunning black and white illustrations that really help the story come to life even more. Overall, I highly recommend this book and it is such a perfect read for spooky season!
This book is such an emotional rollercoaster and really tugs at your heart strings! This book follows the story of Billy McKenna who is a young boy who runs away from a difficult home life and takes refuge in a graveyard. Whilst hiding out in the overgrowth he meets an elderly man who is preparing the graveyard for the magical and supernatural night of All Souls' Eve. This book got me so badly and I cried so much. The chapters alternate pov's between Billy and his mother in a way that weaves such an incredibly compelling, emotional and heartwarming storyline that really stays with you and it is written so well from both perspectives. Throughout the whole thing I just wanted to bundle them both in a hug! Also, it is filled with stunning black and white illustrations that really help the story come to life even more. Overall, I highly recommend this book and it is such a perfect read for spooky season!
March 28, 2022
TW: domestic abuse.
This was a beautiful story that gentle discussed the signs of domestic abuse. It was sad to see how deep in his grief for the mum she used to be made Billy feel and how he needed to get away from the toxic household his step-dad controlled.
I'm really happy that there was a little magic involved but it just elevated the heart of the story rather than take away the importance of it, with the flick of a wand. It actually gave me The Graveyard Boy vibes.
I did have a bit of a break mid-way, where I just didn't feel like picking it up, but I took it to work today and finished it before I finished my lunch.
The art work in this was stunning and I loved how some of the lighter pieces near the end sort of mirrored the darker toned illustrations. It worked perfectly for the story.
Pick it up, give it a go and enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén
This was a beautiful story that gentle discussed the signs of domestic abuse. It was sad to see how deep in his grief for the mum she used to be made Billy feel and how he needed to get away from the toxic household his step-dad controlled.
I'm really happy that there was a little magic involved but it just elevated the heart of the story rather than take away the importance of it, with the flick of a wand. It actually gave me The Graveyard Boy vibes.
I did have a bit of a break mid-way, where I just didn't feel like picking it up, but I took it to work today and finished it before I finished my lunch.
The art work in this was stunning and I loved how some of the lighter pieces near the end sort of mirrored the darker toned illustrations. It worked perfectly for the story.
Pick it up, give it a go and enjoy! >(^_^)<
Gén
June 18, 2023
Vanwege huiselijke problemen loopt Billy een paar dagen weg. Hij kan de ruzies en problemen tussen Jeff, nieuwe vriend van zijn moeder, en zijn moeder niet meer aan. Tijdens een schooluitje heeft hij op de begraafplaats een bunker gevonden, begroeid met klimop, een goede schuilplaats.
Wat mij betreft heeft dit boek goede en minder goede punten, dat kan zeker liggen aan het feit dat ik niet tot de specifieke doelgroep behoor en meer en/of anders lees. Het voelt alsof ik te hard ben, geen emotie heb tijdens het lezen, terwijl ik ook de goede onderwerpen lees.
In het verhaal zitten veel onderwerpen, o.a.: veilig voelen, vertrouwen, rouw, samengesteld gezin, huiselijk geweld, weglopen/vermissing, grensoverschrijdend gedrag, vriendschap. Sommige onderwerpen zijn doorlopend aanwezig, een paar vormen een klein onderdeel.
Goede onderwerpen, alles bij elkaar zit er (erg) veel in dit verhaal verwerkt.
Aan de andere kant vond ik de manier van schrijven niet altijd prettig. Als je eenmaal iets op begint te vallen, kun je er vaak niet meer omheen. Mij viel het op dat er veel gebruik gemaakt werd van veel én kleuren als bijvoeglijk naamwoorden: warme gele gloed, donkergrijze vroege avond, donkerblauwe vroege avond, honingkleur van de huid, blauw van het avondlicht, witheet van woede, grijze schemerlicht.
Dat de wind aanwezig is in de herfst is logisch, hier viel op dat de wind/bries/herfstige wind regelmatig jaagde, suisde, ruiste, blies. Zo zijn er nog meer uitspraken en bewoordingen met bijvoeglijk naamwoorden die ik niet allemaal vond passen bij een 13-jarige, laat staan bij de doelgroep van 9+ zoals wordt aangegeven.
Vertrouwen is een mooi onderwerp in het boek en dat op verschillende punten bespreken, juich ik zeker toe. Billy vertrouwt en helpt de oude man (ze vragen elkaars naam niet?) die de begraafplaats klaarmaakt voor Allerzielen, alleen waarom houdt deze man Billys plaats geheim als er een vermissingsbericht vanuit de politie is? Voor Billy is het fijn, maar hebben wij als volwassenen geen plicht om zoiets inderdaad te melden? Ik denk dat kinderen dit niet zo lezen, maar welk voorbeeld willen we de kinderen geven? Daarbij vraag ik me ook af wat ik zou doen in zo'n situatie (ik denk een compromis zoeken en dit uitleggen), dus ik wil niet direct zeggen dat het 100% verkeerd is wat deze oude man heeft gedaan.
Een pluspunt vind ik overigens de verwoording van het onderwerp huiselijk geweld voor kinderen: huiselijke problemen. Huiselijk geweld zou kinderen af kunnen schrikken, omdat kinderen in het algemeen wel weten wat geweld is. Het woord problemen is breder. Het onderwerp komt in het verhaal zelf goed naar voren, vanuit Billy, zijn moeder, maar ook signalen die de buurvrouw in dit geval meekrijgt.
Wat mij betreft zou het vanuit de Nederlandse uitgever een waardevolle toevoeging zijn geweest als tips toegevoegd zouden worden voor kinderen die in soortgelijke situaties zitten, wat zou je dan kunnen doen? Met daarbij telefoonnummers van bijv. De Kindertelefoon en/of Veilig Thuis en de Vlaamse variant hiervan.
Als laatste wil ik erbij vermelden dat het wat mij betreft niet aan de vertaling van Annelies Jorna ligt.
Wat mij betreft heeft dit boek goede en minder goede punten, dat kan zeker liggen aan het feit dat ik niet tot de specifieke doelgroep behoor en meer en/of anders lees. Het voelt alsof ik te hard ben, geen emotie heb tijdens het lezen, terwijl ik ook de goede onderwerpen lees.
In het verhaal zitten veel onderwerpen, o.a.: veilig voelen, vertrouwen, rouw, samengesteld gezin, huiselijk geweld, weglopen/vermissing, grensoverschrijdend gedrag, vriendschap. Sommige onderwerpen zijn doorlopend aanwezig, een paar vormen een klein onderdeel.
Goede onderwerpen, alles bij elkaar zit er (erg) veel in dit verhaal verwerkt.
Aan de andere kant vond ik de manier van schrijven niet altijd prettig. Als je eenmaal iets op begint te vallen, kun je er vaak niet meer omheen. Mij viel het op dat er veel gebruik gemaakt werd van veel én kleuren als bijvoeglijk naamwoorden: warme gele gloed, donkergrijze vroege avond, donkerblauwe vroege avond, honingkleur van de huid, blauw van het avondlicht, witheet van woede, grijze schemerlicht.
Dat de wind aanwezig is in de herfst is logisch, hier viel op dat de wind/bries/herfstige wind regelmatig jaagde, suisde, ruiste, blies. Zo zijn er nog meer uitspraken en bewoordingen met bijvoeglijk naamwoorden die ik niet allemaal vond passen bij een 13-jarige, laat staan bij de doelgroep van 9+ zoals wordt aangegeven.
Vertrouwen is een mooi onderwerp in het boek en dat op verschillende punten bespreken, juich ik zeker toe. Billy vertrouwt en helpt de oude man (ze vragen elkaars naam niet?) die de begraafplaats klaarmaakt voor Allerzielen, alleen waarom houdt deze man Billys plaats geheim als er een vermissingsbericht vanuit de politie is? Voor Billy is het fijn, maar hebben wij als volwassenen geen plicht om zoiets inderdaad te melden? Ik denk dat kinderen dit niet zo lezen, maar welk voorbeeld willen we de kinderen geven? Daarbij vraag ik me ook af wat ik zou doen in zo'n situatie (ik denk een compromis zoeken en dit uitleggen), dus ik wil niet direct zeggen dat het 100% verkeerd is wat deze oude man heeft gedaan.
Een pluspunt vind ik overigens de verwoording van het onderwerp huiselijk geweld voor kinderen: huiselijke problemen. Huiselijk geweld zou kinderen af kunnen schrikken, omdat kinderen in het algemeen wel weten wat geweld is. Het woord problemen is breder. Het onderwerp komt in het verhaal zelf goed naar voren, vanuit Billy, zijn moeder, maar ook signalen die de buurvrouw in dit geval meekrijgt.
Wat mij betreft zou het vanuit de Nederlandse uitgever een waardevolle toevoeging zijn geweest als tips toegevoegd zouden worden voor kinderen die in soortgelijke situaties zitten, wat zou je dan kunnen doen? Met daarbij telefoonnummers van bijv. De Kindertelefoon en/of Veilig Thuis en de Vlaamse variant hiervan.
Als laatste wil ik erbij vermelden dat het wat mij betreft niet aan de vertaling van Annelies Jorna ligt.
November 4, 2024
Fue la lectura ideal para estas fechas. Lo inicié el 2 de noviembre y lo terminé el 3.
Mi primer acercamiento con Pam Smy y me gustó mucho la manera de narrar y crear una historia emotiva y significativa, además de las ilustraciones que acompañan la historia son muy lindas.
Una muy buena lectura juvenil, que habla sobre afrontar emociones duras, sobre la muerte y el duelo t varios temas importantes. Valoré mucho que el protagonista tiene 13 años y si se siente que tiene esa edad, es maduro pero también tiene inseguridades y miedos propios de la edad.
Mi primer acercamiento con Pam Smy y me gustó mucho la manera de narrar y crear una historia emotiva y significativa, además de las ilustraciones que acompañan la historia son muy lindas.
Una muy buena lectura juvenil, que habla sobre afrontar emociones duras, sobre la muerte y el duelo t varios temas importantes. Valoré mucho que el protagonista tiene 13 años y si se siente que tiene esa edad, es maduro pero también tiene inseguridades y miedos propios de la edad.
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