What do you think?
Rate this book
A Little Spark
From the bestselling multi-award-winning author of My Life as an Alphabet and A Song Only I Can Hear comes another CBCA Notable middle fiction novel that is warm, upbeat, intriguing and wholly absorbing.
NOTABLE 2023 CBCA Book of the Year, Older Readers 2023 NSW Premier's Literary Awards, Ethel Turner Prize for Young People's Literature
I don't tell Mum and Sam anything about my weekends with Dad. It would be giving them tickets into that world. The world Dad and I have created. And I don't want to do that. It's ours. It's all we have. It's all we've been allowed since my parents got divorced.
Cate gets to spend every second weekend with her dad, and each time something special and surprising happens. Something that fires the creative spark that Cate channels into her writing.
And everything is fine until Cate's stepdad, Sam, gets offered his dream job in London and her mum decides they are going to move to England with him…
Cate must decide what she wants for herself. She loves both her parents - but she must choose between them.
A warm and funny novel full of unexpected twists and turns, joy and heartbreak.
NOTABLE 2023 CBCA Book of the Year, Older Readers 2023 NSW Premier's Literary Awards, Ethel Turner Prize for Young People's Literature
I don't tell Mum and Sam anything about my weekends with Dad. It would be giving them tickets into that world. The world Dad and I have created. And I don't want to do that. It's ours. It's all we have. It's all we've been allowed since my parents got divorced.
Cate gets to spend every second weekend with her dad, and each time something special and surprising happens. Something that fires the creative spark that Cate channels into her writing.
And everything is fine until Cate's stepdad, Sam, gets offered his dream job in London and her mum decides they are going to move to England with him…
Cate must decide what she wants for herself. She loves both her parents - but she must choose between them.
A warm and funny novel full of unexpected twists and turns, joy and heartbreak.
Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2022
About the author
Barry Jonsberg
43 books105 followersBarry Jonsberg is an Australian author and teacher originally from Liverpool, England. He holds degrees in English and Psychology from Liverpool University and moved to Australia in 1999. His debut novel, The Whole Business with Kiffo and the Pitbull, earned acclaim in 2005, and his follow-up, It’s Not All About YOU, Calma, won the 2006 South Australian Festival Award for Children’s Literature. Jonsberg has continued to receive numerous honors, including awards and shortlistings for Dreamrider, My Life as an Alphabet, A Little Spark, and Smoke & Mirrors, affirming his place in contemporary young adult literature.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 2, 2022
https://littlesquirrelsbookshelf.blog...
A Little Spark is a wondrous story of love, imagination, friendship and heartbreak.
Thirteen-year-old Caitlyn Carson's parents have been divorced for 7 years. She spends every second weekend with her father and they have adventures to spark the imagination and believe in the impossible.
Barry Jonsberg has written an inspiring book about building on a child's imagination past the early childhood years. Don't let that little spark go out!
Many opportunities arise throughout the book for classroom discussion with themes of divorce, a child's rights, how divorce affects the children in a relationship and parent responsibilities.
The story is narrated by Cate and she is extremely likeable and comes across as a very mature and open 13 year old, wise beyond her years. I was relieved when there was a scene of screaming and door slamming because I feel the character needs to be relatable.
A Little Spark highlights strong parent/child relationships and a fun and supportive friendship with Cate and best friend Elise. It is filled with magical encounters featuring UFOs, a unicorn, a beach serenade and a flash mob orchestra, just to name a few.
A Little Spark is a book that will ignite your imagination, make you laugh and break your heart.
*I received my copy from the publisher
A Little Spark is a wondrous story of love, imagination, friendship and heartbreak.
Thirteen-year-old Caitlyn Carson's parents have been divorced for 7 years. She spends every second weekend with her father and they have adventures to spark the imagination and believe in the impossible.
Barry Jonsberg has written an inspiring book about building on a child's imagination past the early childhood years. Don't let that little spark go out!
Many opportunities arise throughout the book for classroom discussion with themes of divorce, a child's rights, how divorce affects the children in a relationship and parent responsibilities.
The story is narrated by Cate and she is extremely likeable and comes across as a very mature and open 13 year old, wise beyond her years. I was relieved when there was a scene of screaming and door slamming because I feel the character needs to be relatable.
A Little Spark highlights strong parent/child relationships and a fun and supportive friendship with Cate and best friend Elise. It is filled with magical encounters featuring UFOs, a unicorn, a beach serenade and a flash mob orchestra, just to name a few.
A Little Spark is a book that will ignite your imagination, make you laugh and break your heart.
*I received my copy from the publisher
March 18, 2023
Reread to write readers cup questions.
This is quite astonishing, but I think I say that about most of this author's books.
I sobbed and sobbed (at the end).
This is quite astonishing, but I think I say that about most of this author's books.
I sobbed and sobbed (at the end).
August 7, 2022
Cate lives with her mum, and her mum’s boyfriend, Sam, and every second weekend, she gets to spend the weekend with her dad.
On these weekends, they have lots of fun – he always has special adventures planned and just makes their time together memorable and wonderful for Cate.
Cate’s world is rocked when Sam is offered a job in London, and Cate’s mum wants them all to move. But Cate wants to stay in Melbourne so she can see her dad, and her best friend, El.
This book is aimed at upper primary/middle grade readers, and is full of heart.
Cate is such a wonderfully written character and you can feel the love she has for her parents, but especially her dad through each interaction with them.
Cate’s best friend El has parents who are going through a divorce, and Cate doesn’t want to leave her, either.
This book is full of heart and is funny and wonderful. I recommend this to readers of all ages.
On these weekends, they have lots of fun – he always has special adventures planned and just makes their time together memorable and wonderful for Cate.
Cate’s world is rocked when Sam is offered a job in London, and Cate’s mum wants them all to move. But Cate wants to stay in Melbourne so she can see her dad, and her best friend, El.
This book is aimed at upper primary/middle grade readers, and is full of heart.
Cate is such a wonderfully written character and you can feel the love she has for her parents, but especially her dad through each interaction with them.
Cate’s best friend El has parents who are going through a divorce, and Cate doesn’t want to leave her, either.
This book is full of heart and is funny and wonderful. I recommend this to readers of all ages.
August 3, 2022
Maybe 3.5? This was an unexpectedly heart-wrenching middle-grade (why does middle-grade always hit so hard?!) This is definitely a book to take you back to your childhood, especially as a child of divorce myself. It was really interesting to read this knowing the author wanted to portray a more nuanced/healthier/for the child divorce, as someone who lived through it. Because whilst I think he definitely succeeded, oh boy is this kid getting some trauma out of the decisions these parents make!
There is an absolutely wonderful father/daughter relationship, A DOG, a lovely message about finding your own spark and imagination (which again felt very much like it took me back to my childhood as it was reminiscent of the relationship I had with my father) and the ending packs an absolute punch to the chest.
Content warnings: divorce, car accident, death of parent, cancer, court case, attempted suicide
There is an absolutely wonderful father/daughter relationship, A DOG, a lovely message about finding your own spark and imagination (which again felt very much like it took me back to my childhood as it was reminiscent of the relationship I had with my father) and the ending packs an absolute punch to the chest.
Content warnings: divorce, car accident, death of parent, cancer, court case, attempted suicide
May 14, 2023
4.5/5 All of the emotions! Cate might have lost her tears but I sure didn’t. Loss permeates this story but a loss of time is what weighed so heavily on me. I loved Cate’s voice - at times perceptive, reflective, even melodic, while other times the voice of a strained teenager grappling with a lack of control that comes with being 13. It’s without a doubt that Cate’s dad’s last effort as Director of Miracles will leave an indelible mark on her life.
May 16, 2024
J’ai reçu ce roman dans le cadre de mon partenariat avec Flammarion Jeunesse (que je remercie encore une fois d’ailleurs). Le résumé est hyper court mais il nous donne envie de découvrir cette histoire. L’avantage avec un résumé aussi court, c’est que l’on sait ce qu’il nous attend sans vraiment savoir ce qu’il nous attend finalement. Et c’est tant mieux, ça amène un peu de mystère j’adore ça. J’avais vu pas mal d’avis plus que positifs concernant cette histoire et j’étais très impatiente de la découvrir moi aussi. Ça a été un énorme coup de coeur. J’ai dévoré ce roman d’une traite le temps d’une soirée et c’était tout simplement incroyable comme lecture! Lisez le, vraiment!
Je ne connaissais pas du tout cet auteur mais j’ai adoré le découvrir. J’ai adoré sa plume, c’est fluide, terriblement addictif et puis je ne sais pas, il a ce petit truc en plus qui m’a profondément plu. Une manière d’écrire un brin poétique pour moi. J’ai été plus que conquise par cet auteur et j’ai vraiment pris beaucoup de plaisir à découvrir son oeuvre. C’était vraiment très plaisant à lire et comme je le dis, c’est tellement addictif qu’on ne veut pas du tout lâcher le roman!
Dans ce roman, entre le lycée, la semaine chez sa mère et le week-end avec son père, la vie de Cate s’écoule, douce et joyeuse. Alors pourquoi faut-il que tout s’effondre ? Lorsque sa mère décide de quitter Melbourne pour s’installer à Londres, Cate se retrouve face à un choix déchirant.
Parlons d’abord de l’intrigue. J’ai été prise dedans dès les premières pages. J’étais à fond dedans et surtout j’étais tellement investie dans cette histoire. J’ai beaucoup aimé suivre le quotidien de Cate avec ses parents. Cette histoire est une histoire tellement touchante je trouve. Je ne dirais pas trop de choses pour éviter tout risque de spoilers vu que ce n’est pas mon but mais c’est une histoire pleine d’émotions. On va d’ailleurs passer par tellement d’émotions au fil des pages. Mais c’est surtout la fin qui m’a complètement retourné. C’était triste mais en même temps j’avais un sourire niais sur le visage parce que c’était tellement beau. En soit, quand on regarde l’intrigue en détails, il ne se passe pas forcément des tonnes de choses. On suit tout simplement Cate dans sa vie d’adolescente, qui oscille entre sa vie chez sa mère et celle chez son père et surtout on la suit dans son choix crucial concernant un futur déménagement à Londres. Alors je ne dis pas qu’il ne se passe rien attention mais disons que ce n’est pas dans cette histoire que vous allez retrouver des tas de rebondissements etc. Mais c’est vraiment très sympa à lire. Et puis comme je l’ai dis, cette histoire vous fera passer par un tas d’émotions. Peut être que je suis trop sensible et ce qui est fort possible mais j’ai vraiment versé un tas de larmes et j’ai pleuré comme un bébé. J’ai aussi beaucoup aimé les thématiques que l’on aborde, notamment avec le divorce. Ici on pointe beaucoup du doigt le fait que les parents qui divorcent ont tendance à se servir des enfants pour prendre des décisions sans pour autant prendre en compte ce que l’enfant veut réellement et ses sentiments..
Concernant les personnages, j’ai beaucoup aimé Cate. Elle m’a profondément touché et j’ai beaucoup aimé son caractère mais aussi sa façon de penser. Son amitié avec Elise m’a beaucoup fait rire, ces deux là sont adorables ensemble et sont surtout de vraies amies l’une pour l’autre. Elles ont parfois une façon de communiquer assez spécial mais qui est propre à leur amitié et c’était vraiment drôle. Ce qui m’a le plus plu avec Cate, c’est sa relation avec son père. C’était tellement beau, tellement touchant, ça m’a vraiment marqué cette relation. D’ailleurs, j’ai tellement aimé le personnage de son père! Tout ce qu’il fait pour cultiver l’imagination de Cate, j’ai trouvé ça remarquable, vraiment. Tout ce qu’il peut faire pour elle c’était vraiment incroyable. C’était si beau de voir ça, encore plus à la fin je trouve. Parfois je me demandais vraiment comment il faisait pour organiser toutes ces choses tant certaines étaient complètement folles! La maman de Cate m’a beaucoup touché également à certains moments. Tous les personnages, même si on ne les voit que de temps en temps par ci par là, apportent quelque chose à l’histoire. Ils sont tous attachants à leurs manières et j’ai adoré découvrir chacun d’eux.
Cette histoire m’a profondément marqué et surtout touché. Je n’oublierais pas cette histoire de si tôt en tout cas. Cette lecture a été un énorme coup de coeur. Que ce soit la plume de l’auteur, l’intrigue, les personnages, tout était parfait selon moi. J’ai dévoré ce roman en un rien de temps, impossible pour moi de le lâcher et de faire autre chose, je devais finir cette histoire, pas question de poser le roman avant que la dernière page soit tournée. J’ai pris énormément de plaisir à dévorer cette histoire et je ne peux que vous la conseiller!
Je ne connaissais pas du tout cet auteur mais j’ai adoré le découvrir. J’ai adoré sa plume, c’est fluide, terriblement addictif et puis je ne sais pas, il a ce petit truc en plus qui m’a profondément plu. Une manière d’écrire un brin poétique pour moi. J’ai été plus que conquise par cet auteur et j’ai vraiment pris beaucoup de plaisir à découvrir son oeuvre. C’était vraiment très plaisant à lire et comme je le dis, c’est tellement addictif qu’on ne veut pas du tout lâcher le roman!
Dans ce roman, entre le lycée, la semaine chez sa mère et le week-end avec son père, la vie de Cate s’écoule, douce et joyeuse. Alors pourquoi faut-il que tout s’effondre ? Lorsque sa mère décide de quitter Melbourne pour s’installer à Londres, Cate se retrouve face à un choix déchirant.
Parlons d’abord de l’intrigue. J’ai été prise dedans dès les premières pages. J’étais à fond dedans et surtout j’étais tellement investie dans cette histoire. J’ai beaucoup aimé suivre le quotidien de Cate avec ses parents. Cette histoire est une histoire tellement touchante je trouve. Je ne dirais pas trop de choses pour éviter tout risque de spoilers vu que ce n’est pas mon but mais c’est une histoire pleine d’émotions. On va d’ailleurs passer par tellement d’émotions au fil des pages. Mais c’est surtout la fin qui m’a complètement retourné. C’était triste mais en même temps j’avais un sourire niais sur le visage parce que c’était tellement beau. En soit, quand on regarde l’intrigue en détails, il ne se passe pas forcément des tonnes de choses. On suit tout simplement Cate dans sa vie d’adolescente, qui oscille entre sa vie chez sa mère et celle chez son père et surtout on la suit dans son choix crucial concernant un futur déménagement à Londres. Alors je ne dis pas qu’il ne se passe rien attention mais disons que ce n’est pas dans cette histoire que vous allez retrouver des tas de rebondissements etc. Mais c’est vraiment très sympa à lire. Et puis comme je l’ai dis, cette histoire vous fera passer par un tas d’émotions. Peut être que je suis trop sensible et ce qui est fort possible mais j’ai vraiment versé un tas de larmes et j’ai pleuré comme un bébé. J’ai aussi beaucoup aimé les thématiques que l’on aborde, notamment avec le divorce. Ici on pointe beaucoup du doigt le fait que les parents qui divorcent ont tendance à se servir des enfants pour prendre des décisions sans pour autant prendre en compte ce que l’enfant veut réellement et ses sentiments..
Concernant les personnages, j’ai beaucoup aimé Cate. Elle m’a profondément touché et j’ai beaucoup aimé son caractère mais aussi sa façon de penser. Son amitié avec Elise m’a beaucoup fait rire, ces deux là sont adorables ensemble et sont surtout de vraies amies l’une pour l’autre. Elles ont parfois une façon de communiquer assez spécial mais qui est propre à leur amitié et c’était vraiment drôle. Ce qui m’a le plus plu avec Cate, c’est sa relation avec son père. C’était tellement beau, tellement touchant, ça m’a vraiment marqué cette relation. D’ailleurs, j’ai tellement aimé le personnage de son père! Tout ce qu’il fait pour cultiver l’imagination de Cate, j’ai trouvé ça remarquable, vraiment. Tout ce qu’il peut faire pour elle c’était vraiment incroyable. C’était si beau de voir ça, encore plus à la fin je trouve. Parfois je me demandais vraiment comment il faisait pour organiser toutes ces choses tant certaines étaient complètement folles! La maman de Cate m’a beaucoup touché également à certains moments. Tous les personnages, même si on ne les voit que de temps en temps par ci par là, apportent quelque chose à l’histoire. Ils sont tous attachants à leurs manières et j’ai adoré découvrir chacun d’eux.
Cette histoire m’a profondément marqué et surtout touché. Je n’oublierais pas cette histoire de si tôt en tout cas. Cette lecture a été un énorme coup de coeur. Que ce soit la plume de l’auteur, l’intrigue, les personnages, tout était parfait selon moi. J’ai dévoré ce roman en un rien de temps, impossible pour moi de le lâcher et de faire autre chose, je devais finir cette histoire, pas question de poser le roman avant que la dernière page soit tournée. J’ai pris énormément de plaisir à dévorer cette histoire et je ne peux que vous la conseiller!
September 2, 2022
I really loved My Life as an Alphabet, and thought A Song Only I Can Hear was great, so I keep trying to find more Barry Jonsberg books I like. But I’m finding they’re a bit hit and miss.
This one is about a girl who has to decide whether she wants to move to England with her mum and her stepdad or stay in Australia with her dad. It’s really a no-win situation for Cate, because no matter what she does, someone will get hurt. Even once she makes her decision there’s court cases where the parents are completely amicable, but both fighting for her. Set to a backdrop of a car accident, a best friend in need, and a world of adventurers.
So it’s pretty heavy, but having the parents get along made a huge difference in the weight of all the pressure. I don’t think it’s inspiring for middle grade readers, and if you’re going through a divorce and want a book to help explain it to your kids don’t pick this one. Ultimately the message was: you’re a child, and what you want doesn’t matter.
This one is about a girl who has to decide whether she wants to move to England with her mum and her stepdad or stay in Australia with her dad. It’s really a no-win situation for Cate, because no matter what she does, someone will get hurt. Even once she makes her decision there’s court cases where the parents are completely amicable, but both fighting for her. Set to a backdrop of a car accident, a best friend in need, and a world of adventurers.
So it’s pretty heavy, but having the parents get along made a huge difference in the weight of all the pressure. I don’t think it’s inspiring for middle grade readers, and if you’re going through a divorce and want a book to help explain it to your kids don’t pick this one. Ultimately the message was: you’re a child, and what you want doesn’t matter.
January 13, 2023
A Little Spark is a YA book about 13 year old Cate Carson. Cate's parents divorced when she was very young however, she spends most weekends with her Dad. Her weekends with him revolve around a world full of imagination, creativity and magic and this world is theirs alone. The story contains some complex family problems, self harm, tragedy and grief therefore, I would recommend it for older children. I was going to read it to my 9 year old but it contained course language and some tough themes so would be more suitable for 12+ years in my opinion. Thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC of Barry Jonsberg's book.
August 20, 2022
This book engaged me and made me tear up so much. I loved the MC and felt for her so much throughout the novel. Usually young teens are whiny and annoying for me in books, but this was not the case for this book. This book was easy to delve into and I was enraptured for most of it. A huge let down was the consistency of JKR and HP being mentioned throughout the book; I was left disappointed.
August 29, 2022
Cate loves her dad. She loves her mum too of course, but every second weekend, she stays with her dad at his place. Mum has a new partner (named Sam) but Cate worries that her dad hasn’t met anyone new. When she asks him about it, he just smiles. His reason, he explains, is time. Cate is thirteen, and he figures she will start changing around sixteen, wanting to be more independent and become more adult. So this time with Cate is precious, and he not only doesn’t want any distractions in it, he wants it to be the most special it can be.
When he says special, Cate knows exactly what he means. Each time she is with him, they play a game. It might be seeking extra-terrestrials, discovering a new ice-cream store, or buskers breaking into song for only them when they are out. These surprises are magical for Cate, and as a budding writer, feed her imagination.
One ‘game’ goes terribly wrong, putting both Cate and her dad in hospital. The timing couldn’t be worse. Cate mum wants to take Cate to England to be with Sam who has scored his dream job. Cate and her dad don’t want her to leave their home city of Melbourne, Australia, but Mum is adamant – taking things to court.
Cate is caught between her love for her parents, not wanting to ruin Sam’s dreams, and wanting to stay with her dad in the city she was born in. Her friend Elise is going through problems of her own, and Cate can’t think of leaving her. Soon, events take the decision from her hands, leaving her stunned and confused.
Barry Jonsberg has done it again, capturing the voices of young teens in every day life, dealing with events that try to derail them. The character’s voices are so clear, with the very real laughter, bickering, confusion, and love, in multiple relationships.
Cate and her best friend Elise compare notes as Elise’s parents are planning a divorce, and Cate’s mum and partner are planning for all of their futures away from everything she knows and loves.
This leaves Cate angry at her lack of control over her life, and there is worse to come. A sudden betrayal by her dad shocks her beyond comprehension. Why has he abandoned her?
What is the result? A suburb surprise for both Cate and reader.
As always, Barry’s Jonsberg’s writing is exquisite, and the ending? Magnificent! (with tissues on standby).
For Readers - 11+
When he says special, Cate knows exactly what he means. Each time she is with him, they play a game. It might be seeking extra-terrestrials, discovering a new ice-cream store, or buskers breaking into song for only them when they are out. These surprises are magical for Cate, and as a budding writer, feed her imagination.
One ‘game’ goes terribly wrong, putting both Cate and her dad in hospital. The timing couldn’t be worse. Cate mum wants to take Cate to England to be with Sam who has scored his dream job. Cate and her dad don’t want her to leave their home city of Melbourne, Australia, but Mum is adamant – taking things to court.
Cate is caught between her love for her parents, not wanting to ruin Sam’s dreams, and wanting to stay with her dad in the city she was born in. Her friend Elise is going through problems of her own, and Cate can’t think of leaving her. Soon, events take the decision from her hands, leaving her stunned and confused.
Barry Jonsberg has done it again, capturing the voices of young teens in every day life, dealing with events that try to derail them. The character’s voices are so clear, with the very real laughter, bickering, confusion, and love, in multiple relationships.
Cate and her best friend Elise compare notes as Elise’s parents are planning a divorce, and Cate’s mum and partner are planning for all of their futures away from everything she knows and loves.
This leaves Cate angry at her lack of control over her life, and there is worse to come. A sudden betrayal by her dad shocks her beyond comprehension. Why has he abandoned her?
What is the result? A suburb surprise for both Cate and reader.
As always, Barry’s Jonsberg’s writing is exquisite, and the ending? Magnificent! (with tissues on standby).
For Readers - 11+
October 23, 2022
I loved “A Little Spark”. As a bookseller, reader, and author myself, it’s always a pleasure to read Barry Jonsberg’s new novels. They’re easy to recommend for their high quality and important themes, they’re inspiring, and best of all, they’re so utterly enjoyable. “A Little Spark” was no different, and may even be my favourite so far.
“A Little Spark” centres on the character of Cate, whose parents have recently split. She’s a teenager now faced with the normal challenges of high school, friendship, and navigating the murky waters of family while her parents try to find their own way as newly-separated adults. As in all of Barry’s books, Cate is a compelling narrator, drawn on by her own very real needs and wants and contradictions, chasing tangible goals that are regularly beset by new challenges. Just when it seems nothing can go wrong, everything does. Just when everything is going wrong, she gets a win. That’s life. And throughout the story, “A Little Spark” holds true to that message. Life just is. It’s not good or evil, no one can predict or control it, things just happen. Cate’s challenge is learn that what she wants may not be what she needs. If she can’t get either, she needs to find new ways of surviving and, if possible, thriving. That’s life.
There are many poignant and fun relationships in this book, including that of Cate’s best friend and mother. But shining most strongly is the closeness she has with her father. They share a beautiful bond, hidden secrets that keep her time with him special. When it becomes clear that Cate must choose between the exciting opportunities her mother presents, and the familiar fun that her father brings, it seems impossible. But that’s the brilliance of this book. It brings you heartbreak and joy. It shows you a snapshot into a tricky life. And it reminds you that if you find a little spark of madness and share it with those you love, anything is possible.
“A Little Spark” centres on the character of Cate, whose parents have recently split. She’s a teenager now faced with the normal challenges of high school, friendship, and navigating the murky waters of family while her parents try to find their own way as newly-separated adults. As in all of Barry’s books, Cate is a compelling narrator, drawn on by her own very real needs and wants and contradictions, chasing tangible goals that are regularly beset by new challenges. Just when it seems nothing can go wrong, everything does. Just when everything is going wrong, she gets a win. That’s life. And throughout the story, “A Little Spark” holds true to that message. Life just is. It’s not good or evil, no one can predict or control it, things just happen. Cate’s challenge is learn that what she wants may not be what she needs. If she can’t get either, she needs to find new ways of surviving and, if possible, thriving. That’s life.
There are many poignant and fun relationships in this book, including that of Cate’s best friend and mother. But shining most strongly is the closeness she has with her father. They share a beautiful bond, hidden secrets that keep her time with him special. When it becomes clear that Cate must choose between the exciting opportunities her mother presents, and the familiar fun that her father brings, it seems impossible. But that’s the brilliance of this book. It brings you heartbreak and joy. It shows you a snapshot into a tricky life. And it reminds you that if you find a little spark of madness and share it with those you love, anything is possible.
July 28, 2022
Cate lives with her mum and Steve, her mum's new boyfriend. But every second weekend she gets to spend the weekend with her dad. On these weekends he always has special adventures planned and anything could happen.
Cate loves her mum and her dad and is even quite fond of Steve.
But when Steve is offered a job in London, and her mum plans for them both to move there with him, Cate is left in an impossible position.... she doesn't want to leave her mum or her dad.... or her best friend El, who definitely needs her.
Cate is determined to not leave Melbourne but that means that her mum and dad are going to fight about it in court.
But then on one of their adventures, Cate and her dad are injured in a car accident. Will this mean that the court will decide her dad isn't a good parent and make her go to London?
A little spark is another wonderful Barry Jonsberg book. If you haven't read any of his other books yet I strongly encourage you to do so.
A little spark is fun, funny and heartbreaking - full of the unexpected.
Cate feels like such a real character and the way she battles with her conflicting feelings about the move the London feels entirely authentic. One of my favourite characters is Cate's best friend El - who is going through her own struggles with divorcing parents and her sadness of the prospect of Cate leaving.
Aimed at an upper primary to lower secondary audience, this is another example of how a well written book transcends age group classification and becomes a must read for anyone who loves a good story.
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for the review copy of this book.
Cate loves her mum and her dad and is even quite fond of Steve.
But when Steve is offered a job in London, and her mum plans for them both to move there with him, Cate is left in an impossible position.... she doesn't want to leave her mum or her dad.... or her best friend El, who definitely needs her.
Cate is determined to not leave Melbourne but that means that her mum and dad are going to fight about it in court.
But then on one of their adventures, Cate and her dad are injured in a car accident. Will this mean that the court will decide her dad isn't a good parent and make her go to London?
A little spark is another wonderful Barry Jonsberg book. If you haven't read any of his other books yet I strongly encourage you to do so.
A little spark is fun, funny and heartbreaking - full of the unexpected.
Cate feels like such a real character and the way she battles with her conflicting feelings about the move the London feels entirely authentic. One of my favourite characters is Cate's best friend El - who is going through her own struggles with divorcing parents and her sadness of the prospect of Cate leaving.
Aimed at an upper primary to lower secondary audience, this is another example of how a well written book transcends age group classification and becomes a must read for anyone who loves a good story.
Thanks to Allen & Unwin for the review copy of this book.
November 2, 2023
An utterly joyous book that champions the power of imagination and the bonds that we share when we create together. It’s an unusual ride though. Initially there was the feeling that this was the usual coming of age story YA novel about a young person navigating divorce and their place in the world. But then it switches into another gear when a bombshell is dropped upon the protagonist.
The last few chapters are glorious! A real life unfolding fantastical adventure that had me grinning and crying simultaneously.
I read the last line of the book then promptly ugly cried for a full minute or two at the beauty of stories that hold the heart space.
I loved Barry Jonsberg’s “A Song Only I Can Hear” and this one is up there with it as a masterful piece of writing.
The last few chapters are glorious! A real life unfolding fantastical adventure that had me grinning and crying simultaneously.
I read the last line of the book then promptly ugly cried for a full minute or two at the beauty of stories that hold the heart space.
I loved Barry Jonsberg’s “A Song Only I Can Hear” and this one is up there with it as a masterful piece of writing.
October 18, 2022
A joyous and heartbreaking book about being a kid with a big imagination and a support network who fosters that creativity. An easy read, accessible and at times laugh out loud funny, this novel deals with big issues without being angsty and dark. There are big themes like grief discussed in here, but in a way in which young people can understand and relate to. There are genuine gasp-worthy moments, and while sometimes Cate sounds more like a grown up than the thirteen/fourteen year old she's meant to be, it is a lovely little book. It's nice to read about families who can be pleasant and kind despite being divorced. A good read for middle school, probably grade 8 and up.
August 8, 2022
This was a quick and enjoyable read. This book shows some of the complexities with family relationships when divorce occurs, even when it is amicable and mostly through the eyes of a child. I really enjoyed CCs character and her friend, Elise. I was fortunate to attend the launch of the book and meet the author shortly after having read it, and enjoyed listening to Jude Lee whom one of the characters had been named after, as well as hear of the inspiration behind the character Sam Ellis (CC's step dad).
July 1, 2023
Barry Jonsberg, you've done it again. I laughed, I cried, I was mesmerised. I simply love this author's style of writing. I was thoroughly entertained throughout the whole book. The main character is very relatable, the plot is not predictable and the other characters are believable. You'll think you know where this story is headed, but Jonsberg once again throws a spanner in the works. I will forgive him for using "orientated" which is my pet peeve.
Thank you to Will Kostakis for recommending Jonsberg's books.
Read this if you enjoyed The Whole Business With Kiffo and the Pitbull.
Thank you to Will Kostakis for recommending Jonsberg's books.
Read this if you enjoyed The Whole Business With Kiffo and the Pitbull.
March 24, 2024
Une très jolie histoire menée par des personnages touchants et attachants, je me suis laissée surprendre par l'intrigue à une ou deux reprises...
17/20 - https://www.leslecturesdemylene.com/2...
17/20 - https://www.leslecturesdemylene.com/2...
August 29, 2022
Lovely story about 13 year Cate. Her parents are divorcing and she is torn between staying home with father; or going to England with mother. In the end, decision is taken out of her hands.
December 10, 2022
Absolutely beautiful in an unexpected heartbreaking way.
January 13, 2023
Read for PRC
Wonderfully written story about life, relationships and choices. Set in Australia then the UK, just a really well written and thought out book.
Wonderfully written story about life, relationships and choices. Set in Australia then the UK, just a really well written and thought out book.
October 2, 2023
Not my favourite from this author but he covers good subject matter for the teenage age bracket
July 23, 2026
This is the second book I've read by the author. My first, the Categorical Universe of Candice Phee, is outstanding and quirky. This one is outstanding and stunning. It is a must read for adults.
March 7, 2023
How a male author gets inside the head of a 13-year-old girl to write her so empathetically is real talent. This middle grade novel was enjoyable and heart-breaking all at the same time but overall it was very satisfying and I loved it.
May 12, 2024
I wasn't prepared for this book to move me as much as it did. I thought the beginning was a little boring, a bit too young for my taste, but i quickly became very touched by CC and her dad's relationship, the imaginary word they created. The ending shattered my heart, i didn't see that coming at all !
May 20, 2026
Sometimes, a book comes along that not only captivates you with its story but also leaves you feeling profoundly hopeful. This book is precisely that kind of gem. This moving and insightful novel tackles complex themes with honesty and grace, while simultaneously celebrating the boundless power of imagination and the enduring strength of human connection.
At the heart of the story is Cate, a young girl navigating the complexities of a divorced family. Every second weekend, Cate escapes into a world of wonder with her dad, a world carefully constructed and fiercely guarded. These weekends are more than just visits; they are a sanctuary, a shared space where creativity flourishes and memories are forged. "𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚜. 𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚠𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎. 𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚠𝚎'𝚟𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚍 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚖𝚢 𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚐𝚘𝚝 𝚍𝚒𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚌𝚎𝚍." I WANT TO HUG CATE NOW, I FEEL SO BAD.
The author masterfully portrays the delicate balance Cate maintains, keeping this special world separate from her life with her mother and stepfather, Sam. Each visit with her dad sparks a creative fire within her, fuelling her writing and providing an outlet for her emotions. We see the joy and excitement these weekends bring, the unique bond Cate shares with her father, and the importance of these moments in shaping her identity.
However, Cate's carefully constructed world is threatened when Sam receives his dream job offer in London, and her mother decides the family will move to England. Suddenly, Cate is faced with an impossible choice: stay with her father and the world they've built together or relocate to a new country with her mother and stepfather. This is where 'A Little Spark' truly shines.
The author doesn't shy away from the difficult realities of divorce and its impact on children. He explores the feelings of divided loyalties, the pain of separation, and the struggle to find one's place within a fractured family unit. But he does so with remarkable sensitivity and optimism. Beyond the complexities of family dynamics, this book also bravely addresses challenging themes like grief and attempted suicide. These issues are handled with nuance and honesty, never feeling gratuitous but rather adding depth and realism to the narrative. The author demonstrates an understanding of the emotional turmoil that young people face and offers a message of hope and resilience. This book is a must-read for young adults and adults alike.
It's a poignant and uplifting story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and reminded of the enduring power of love, friendship, and the boundless potential of the human imagination. This book is a true literary treasure that deserves to be shared and celebrated. Prepare to have your own spark ignited.
At the heart of the story is Cate, a young girl navigating the complexities of a divorced family. Every second weekend, Cate escapes into a world of wonder with her dad, a world carefully constructed and fiercely guarded. These weekends are more than just visits; they are a sanctuary, a shared space where creativity flourishes and memories are forged. "𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚜. 𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚠𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎. 𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚠𝚎'𝚟𝚎 𝚋𝚎𝚎𝚗 𝚊𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠𝚎𝚍 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚖𝚢 𝚙𝚊𝚛𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚐𝚘𝚝 𝚍𝚒𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚌𝚎𝚍." I WANT TO HUG CATE NOW, I FEEL SO BAD.
The author masterfully portrays the delicate balance Cate maintains, keeping this special world separate from her life with her mother and stepfather, Sam. Each visit with her dad sparks a creative fire within her, fuelling her writing and providing an outlet for her emotions. We see the joy and excitement these weekends bring, the unique bond Cate shares with her father, and the importance of these moments in shaping her identity.
However, Cate's carefully constructed world is threatened when Sam receives his dream job offer in London, and her mother decides the family will move to England. Suddenly, Cate is faced with an impossible choice: stay with her father and the world they've built together or relocate to a new country with her mother and stepfather. This is where 'A Little Spark' truly shines.
The author doesn't shy away from the difficult realities of divorce and its impact on children. He explores the feelings of divided loyalties, the pain of separation, and the struggle to find one's place within a fractured family unit. But he does so with remarkable sensitivity and optimism. Beyond the complexities of family dynamics, this book also bravely addresses challenging themes like grief and attempted suicide. These issues are handled with nuance and honesty, never feeling gratuitous but rather adding depth and realism to the narrative. The author demonstrates an understanding of the emotional turmoil that young people face and offers a message of hope and resilience. This book is a must-read for young adults and adults alike.
It's a poignant and uplifting story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and reminded of the enduring power of love, friendship, and the boundless potential of the human imagination. This book is a true literary treasure that deserves to be shared and celebrated. Prepare to have your own spark ignited.
September 21, 2024
Mon activité de recenseuse en littérature de jeunesse pour la fondation Battieuw-Schmidt m’a permis de découvrir un joli roman publié aux éditions Flammarion Jeunesse : « Dis-moi que la vie est belle », de Barry Jonsberg.
Juste dans son ton et dans le traitement des relations entre les personnages, joyeux malgré les bouleversements que vit son héroïne, ce roman donne cent fois raison à son titre original, « A little spark », qui rappelle qu’une petite étincelle peut transformer les moments les plus dramatiques en véritables petits miracles.
Cate est une adolescente douée pour l’écriture. Sa vie est chamboulée lorsque sa mère lui annonce leur prochain départ à Londres, pour y vivre avec son nouveau compagnon.
Mais Cate ne veut quitter ni Melbourne ni sa meilleure amie… et encore moins son père qui, mieux que personne, sait nourrir son imagination.
Entre rires et larmes, nous suivons les aléas de la vie d’une jeune fille incroyablement créative, qui parvient à illuminer son destin et celui de ses
proches malgré les défis que lui présente la vie.
Un roman qui infuse de la joie. À découvrir.
Vous pouvez retrouver plusieurs autres centaines de critiques de livres et albums jeunesse dans la revue numérique et gratuite « Lu et partagé », dont le numéro 13 est désormais disponible.
Juste dans son ton et dans le traitement des relations entre les personnages, joyeux malgré les bouleversements que vit son héroïne, ce roman donne cent fois raison à son titre original, « A little spark », qui rappelle qu’une petite étincelle peut transformer les moments les plus dramatiques en véritables petits miracles.
Cate est une adolescente douée pour l’écriture. Sa vie est chamboulée lorsque sa mère lui annonce leur prochain départ à Londres, pour y vivre avec son nouveau compagnon.
Mais Cate ne veut quitter ni Melbourne ni sa meilleure amie… et encore moins son père qui, mieux que personne, sait nourrir son imagination.
Entre rires et larmes, nous suivons les aléas de la vie d’une jeune fille incroyablement créative, qui parvient à illuminer son destin et celui de ses
proches malgré les défis que lui présente la vie.
Un roman qui infuse de la joie. À découvrir.
Vous pouvez retrouver plusieurs autres centaines de critiques de livres et albums jeunesse dans la revue numérique et gratuite « Lu et partagé », dont le numéro 13 est désormais disponible.
February 1, 2024
You can read my review (in Slovene) at https://maticpise.com/2023/12/31/drob...
May 6, 2024
Une lecture drôle, déchirante et pleine d'imprévus.
C’est une lecture que j’ai lu en seulement quelques heures. C’est efficace et accrocheur.
La plume est belle, fluide et transmet tellement bien les emotions des personnages.
Cate est pour moi un personnage tellement authentique, et la façon dont elle lutte contre ses sentiments contradictoires à propos du déménagement à Londres est si crédible.
L'un de mes personnages préférés est El, la meilleure amie de Cate, qui vit ses propres difficultés avec des parents qui divorcent.
J’ai aimé ce moment lecture qui propose des sujets réalistes et touchants.
C’est une lecture que j’ai lu en seulement quelques heures. C’est efficace et accrocheur.
La plume est belle, fluide et transmet tellement bien les emotions des personnages.
Cate est pour moi un personnage tellement authentique, et la façon dont elle lutte contre ses sentiments contradictoires à propos du déménagement à Londres est si crédible.
L'un de mes personnages préférés est El, la meilleure amie de Cate, qui vit ses propres difficultés avec des parents qui divorcent.
J’ai aimé ce moment lecture qui propose des sujets réalistes et touchants.
February 28, 2024
Merveilleux. C’est le premier mot qui me vient quand je pense à ce roman. Une véritable ode à l’imagination, à l’amour, à l’espoir, à la vie, tout simplement. J’en ressors profondément bouleversée. ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews