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Where the River Takes Us
It's February 1974 and working class families have been hit hard by the three-day week. The reduced power usage means less hours for people to work, and less money to get by on. Thirteen-year-old Jason feels the struggle keenly. Ever since his parents died, it's just been him and his older brother Richie. Richie is doing his best, but since he can't make ends meet he's been doing favours for the wrong people. Every day they fear they won't have enough and will have to be separated.
One thing that helps distract Jason is the urban legend about a beast in the valleys. A wildcat that roams the forest three villages up the river from their bridge. When Jason's friends learn of a reward for proof of The Beast's existence, they convince Jason this is the answer to his and Richie's money problems. Richie can get himself out of trouble before it's too late and the brothers can stay together.
And so a quest begins ... Starting at the bridge of their village and following the river north, the four friends soon find themselves on a journey that will change each of them ... forever.
With echoes of Stand By Me, this thrilling middle-grade adventure gives us the most exquisite characterisation and a page-turning plot with relatable themes, making this utterly timeless and one of the finest historical fiction stories in the market today.
One thing that helps distract Jason is the urban legend about a beast in the valleys. A wildcat that roams the forest three villages up the river from their bridge. When Jason's friends learn of a reward for proof of The Beast's existence, they convince Jason this is the answer to his and Richie's money problems. Richie can get himself out of trouble before it's too late and the brothers can stay together.
And so a quest begins ... Starting at the bridge of their village and following the river north, the four friends soon find themselves on a journey that will change each of them ... forever.
With echoes of Stand By Me, this thrilling middle-grade adventure gives us the most exquisite characterisation and a page-turning plot with relatable themes, making this utterly timeless and one of the finest historical fiction stories in the market today.
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 16, 2023
11 people are currently reading
459 people want to read
About the author
Lesley Parr
7 books56 followersLesley Parr grew up in South Wales and now lives in England with her husband and their rescue cat, Angharad. She shares her time between writing stories, teaching at a primary school and tutoring adults. Apart from books, rugby union is her favourite thing in the world, especially if Wales is winning. Lesley graduated with distinction from Bath Spa University's MA in Writing for Young People. The Valley of Lost Secrets is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 6, 2023
✰ 4.75 stars ✰
“Except … we’re not fine. Not really. And we can’t fix it on our own.
Maybe we don’t have to fix it on our own.
I’ve got mates. Good ones. Mates with a wild idea and just the right mix of stupidity and determination to pull it off.”
With the tender balance of humor and emotions, Lesley Parr's Where the River Takes Us is a beautifully told, heartfelt story about 13-year-old Jason, who along with the help of his closest friends make a plan to go up the valley to get picture proof of the elusive Beast of Blaengarw, and claim the winning prize money that will help him and his older brother, Richie, survive a few months longer together, after the tragic death of their parents. 😔
Just wonderful, an absolutely wonder of a read, that was laced with honest emotions and believable friendships, I truly enjoyed reading this. Truly. Jason was grieving, Jason was surviving, Jason was wanting. Wanting to make his brother happy, wanting to spend time with his friends, wanting a chance to find a positive way out of the hurt and sadness he felt after his parents' death. This book did not only show so very realistically how a child grieves after losing not one, but two of their parents, but the way people then behave around them. 🤍🤍🤍 It just tugs at your heart strings, leaving you with an ache that can only be soothed, when with such kindness and grace, Lesley Parr resolves all the troubles - reminding us that hope is never lost - it just has to be found again. And on a brave adventure of self-worth down the river, Jason learned to accept his grief and the courage to move on. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Oh the friends - the best of friends - Jinx, Catrin, and Tam - I could not have hoped for better people to be with Jason on his adventure - the ones who will fight through thick and thin with you - the ones who will stir up a laugh to lighten the mood - the ones who will stand by you when they know they're beat - the ones who will comfort you when your heart is aching. And y'know, what I loved most? ❤️🩹❤️🩹 How honestly believable their friendship was - without pretense, without grandiose displays of dialogue - with such real raw feeling, each of them spoke from the heart. They were daring and caring, lovable and laughable, good honest friends that it may have been Jason's grief, but it became their grief, too. 🥺🥺
“It won’t though, will it? Not if you move away. You don’t want to lose Richie, but we don’t want to lose you. I don’t want to lose you. You’re my best friend. That’s what all this is about, isn’t it? Looking after your mates.”
There is a candor to the boys' friendship that I adored, because how they would get awkward about being soft and sentimental, even though they cared, they just didn't know how to express their feelings. After Jason confronted Tam and asked him why he never asked about his parents and Tam's own eyes welled up with tears as he admitted that he was always too afraid to ask, because he never knew what to say that would be right and not hurtful - when Jinx refused to head home without completing their mission, hurting that if they didn't win the money, Jason would leave and he would lose his best friends. 😢😢 these are just two moments, but how the writer captures those moments to show the depth of their friendship. And it's not only the boys - Catrin is as fierce and fearsome as they come - a girl, who can stand up to the best of them and honestly, the most understanding and caring childhood friend, Jason could ever hope for. 🫂🫂
“‘That’s just it though, Jason. A thirteen-year-old boy shouldn’t be looking after his nineteen-year-old brother. He’s the man of the house now.’ She closes the washing-machine door. ‘And if the state of the bathroom was anything to go by, I don’t think he’s doing a very good job.’”
I felt so sad for Richie - a boy who had to become an adult before his time, a boy not yet a man, who just wanted to prove to his younger brother that he was enough to take care of him, but somehow, made life worse than it was. 💔💔 Their hugs and tears touched my heart so much, and it hurt to see how much grief they were carrying on their own - not wanting to be a burden to the other, and yet, in the end, realizing all they had left was each other. And they couldn't bear the thought of losing the other - the fear of foster care, ever so present for their situation. 😟😟
“When someone you love dies, you expect to cry. When two people you love die at the same time, you imagine you’d never stop.”
I adored the 70's feel and the British setting - the countryside spring in your step - the plights of the financial times - the close-knit connections of the friends and even bullies - and the British terminology that helped me create the image of the characters in my head. I always appreciate a book more, when I walk away learning even the slightest of things like 'mun' and 'cwtch' were words I never knew I needed in my vocabulary, but I appreciate the author including them, for it made the story even more authentic to the time and place it was portraying. 😄
Honestly, it really was a great book - emotional and adventurous, soft but still so honestly resilient in it's care. I very much enjoyed journeying, not so much back to the 70s, but accompanying Catrin, Jinx, and Tam, as they set of on a grand adventure to help a dear friend in times of need.
And boy, do I want to know what Catrin really called Mrs.Fletcher? 😁
“Except … we’re not fine. Not really. And we can’t fix it on our own.
Maybe we don’t have to fix it on our own.
I’ve got mates. Good ones. Mates with a wild idea and just the right mix of stupidity and determination to pull it off.”
With the tender balance of humor and emotions, Lesley Parr's Where the River Takes Us is a beautifully told, heartfelt story about 13-year-old Jason, who along with the help of his closest friends make a plan to go up the valley to get picture proof of the elusive Beast of Blaengarw, and claim the winning prize money that will help him and his older brother, Richie, survive a few months longer together, after the tragic death of their parents. 😔
Just wonderful, an absolutely wonder of a read, that was laced with honest emotions and believable friendships, I truly enjoyed reading this. Truly. Jason was grieving, Jason was surviving, Jason was wanting. Wanting to make his brother happy, wanting to spend time with his friends, wanting a chance to find a positive way out of the hurt and sadness he felt after his parents' death. This book did not only show so very realistically how a child grieves after losing not one, but two of their parents, but the way people then behave around them. 🤍🤍🤍 It just tugs at your heart strings, leaving you with an ache that can only be soothed, when with such kindness and grace, Lesley Parr resolves all the troubles - reminding us that hope is never lost - it just has to be found again. And on a brave adventure of self-worth down the river, Jason learned to accept his grief and the courage to move on. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Oh the friends - the best of friends - Jinx, Catrin, and Tam - I could not have hoped for better people to be with Jason on his adventure - the ones who will fight through thick and thin with you - the ones who will stir up a laugh to lighten the mood - the ones who will stand by you when they know they're beat - the ones who will comfort you when your heart is aching. And y'know, what I loved most? ❤️🩹❤️🩹 How honestly believable their friendship was - without pretense, without grandiose displays of dialogue - with such real raw feeling, each of them spoke from the heart. They were daring and caring, lovable and laughable, good honest friends that it may have been Jason's grief, but it became their grief, too. 🥺🥺
“It won’t though, will it? Not if you move away. You don’t want to lose Richie, but we don’t want to lose you. I don’t want to lose you. You’re my best friend. That’s what all this is about, isn’t it? Looking after your mates.”
There is a candor to the boys' friendship that I adored, because how they would get awkward about being soft and sentimental, even though they cared, they just didn't know how to express their feelings. After Jason confronted Tam and asked him why he never asked about his parents and Tam's own eyes welled up with tears as he admitted that he was always too afraid to ask, because he never knew what to say that would be right and not hurtful - when Jinx refused to head home without completing their mission, hurting that if they didn't win the money, Jason would leave and he would lose his best friends. 😢😢 these are just two moments, but how the writer captures those moments to show the depth of their friendship. And it's not only the boys - Catrin is as fierce and fearsome as they come - a girl, who can stand up to the best of them and honestly, the most understanding and caring childhood friend, Jason could ever hope for. 🫂🫂
“‘That’s just it though, Jason. A thirteen-year-old boy shouldn’t be looking after his nineteen-year-old brother. He’s the man of the house now.’ She closes the washing-machine door. ‘And if the state of the bathroom was anything to go by, I don’t think he’s doing a very good job.’”
I felt so sad for Richie - a boy who had to become an adult before his time, a boy not yet a man, who just wanted to prove to his younger brother that he was enough to take care of him, but somehow, made life worse than it was. 💔💔 Their hugs and tears touched my heart so much, and it hurt to see how much grief they were carrying on their own - not wanting to be a burden to the other, and yet, in the end, realizing all they had left was each other. And they couldn't bear the thought of losing the other - the fear of foster care, ever so present for their situation. 😟😟
“When someone you love dies, you expect to cry. When two people you love die at the same time, you imagine you’d never stop.”
I adored the 70's feel and the British setting - the countryside spring in your step - the plights of the financial times - the close-knit connections of the friends and even bullies - and the British terminology that helped me create the image of the characters in my head. I always appreciate a book more, when I walk away learning even the slightest of things like 'mun' and 'cwtch' were words I never knew I needed in my vocabulary, but I appreciate the author including them, for it made the story even more authentic to the time and place it was portraying. 😄
Honestly, it really was a great book - emotional and adventurous, soft but still so honestly resilient in it's care. I very much enjoyed journeying, not so much back to the 70s, but accompanying Catrin, Jinx, and Tam, as they set of on a grand adventure to help a dear friend in times of need.
And boy, do I want to know what Catrin really called Mrs.Fletcher? 😁
February 7, 2023
I have read both the author’s previous books and I think she brings something very unique and special to children’s fiction and Where the River Takes us demonstrates her amazing talent for writing middle grade fiction.
It’s 1974 complete with penny sweets, Look In magazines, the minors’ strike and three day working weeks. Jason is 13..he’s recently lost both parents and his brother is trying to keep both of them together, but Richie is struggling and his attempts to keep them afloat are putting both their lives in jeopardy. When a financial reward is offered for photographs of the Blaengaw Beast - a mysterious wild cat which is believed to be on the loose - Jason and his friends see the opportunity to raise some badly needed funds.
Children’s literature often seems so simple.and yet there is so much art in a novel like this which knits together so many things so seamlessly whilst providing the thrill and excitement that keeps children entertained. This is first and foremost an adventure story with as much excitement as a classic Enid Blyton..a gang of children setting off on an adventure, pockets full of snacks, encountering dangers and obstacles in the form of the natural geography and people who are intent on thwarting their quest. The Welsh geography was absolutely gorgeous with valleys, mountains and of course the river..There are enemies aplenty from the couple of lads who are trying to be the first to find the Beast, to the gang which is pressurising Jason’s brother into illegal activities.
Parr is so wonderful at creating wonderful children’s characters; and understanding their thoughts and fears and imagining their conversations and humour so beautifully. This a story which will make you laugh out loud as well as holding onto your hat as you rush around the welsh countryside. And a trademark Parr touch is the way she depicts both the antipathy and friendship between boys and girls..
As always, Parr intertwines a particular history into her stories - in this case the 1970s with the terrible economic hardship of three day working weeks, strikes and power cuts… I was immediately transported to the world of my childhood.. Alongside the wonderful history, Parr sensitively and powerfully explores universal themes - frienship, family..grief..
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for my digital copy of this wonderful book.
It’s 1974 complete with penny sweets, Look In magazines, the minors’ strike and three day working weeks. Jason is 13..he’s recently lost both parents and his brother is trying to keep both of them together, but Richie is struggling and his attempts to keep them afloat are putting both their lives in jeopardy. When a financial reward is offered for photographs of the Blaengaw Beast - a mysterious wild cat which is believed to be on the loose - Jason and his friends see the opportunity to raise some badly needed funds.
Children’s literature often seems so simple.and yet there is so much art in a novel like this which knits together so many things so seamlessly whilst providing the thrill and excitement that keeps children entertained. This is first and foremost an adventure story with as much excitement as a classic Enid Blyton..a gang of children setting off on an adventure, pockets full of snacks, encountering dangers and obstacles in the form of the natural geography and people who are intent on thwarting their quest. The Welsh geography was absolutely gorgeous with valleys, mountains and of course the river..There are enemies aplenty from the couple of lads who are trying to be the first to find the Beast, to the gang which is pressurising Jason’s brother into illegal activities.
Parr is so wonderful at creating wonderful children’s characters; and understanding their thoughts and fears and imagining their conversations and humour so beautifully. This a story which will make you laugh out loud as well as holding onto your hat as you rush around the welsh countryside. And a trademark Parr touch is the way she depicts both the antipathy and friendship between boys and girls..
As always, Parr intertwines a particular history into her stories - in this case the 1970s with the terrible economic hardship of three day working weeks, strikes and power cuts… I was immediately transported to the world of my childhood.. Alongside the wonderful history, Parr sensitively and powerfully explores universal themes - frienship, family..grief..
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for my digital copy of this wonderful book.
February 11, 2025
3/5, decent book, wasn’t a huge fan of the plot but it was an okay book. Fun read.
February 12, 2024
A fabulous story of friendship that will delight those of us who remember the seventies with fondness, and young readers who will love the familiar yet quirky setting of a time in the near past.
Lesley Parr writes with such openness and honesty. Another pure pleasure of a read.
Lesley Parr writes with such openness and honesty. Another pure pleasure of a read.
March 16, 2023
It’s February 1974. In Britain, there are energy shortages due to the miners’ strikes. Power is rationed and 3-day working weeks have been implemented. In Ponty, Wales, Jason (Jase) and his brother, Richie, are struggling financially in the wake of their parents’ death 12 months previously. Richie has been conned into dealing with some dangerous people in order to try to make more money for the mortgage payment, so when rumours of a large cat, The Beast of Blaengarw, are reported and a reward of £100 offered for anyone who can provide proof of its existence is offered, Jase and his friends, Tam, Jinx and Catrin, set off on an adventure they’ll never forget, determined to track down the animal, earn the reward and end all Jase’s problems.
For MG readers this will be true historical fiction. For me, a child of the 70s, this was a true journey of nostalgia back to my childhood. The story references Trumpton, Jackanory, penny sweets, R White’s lemonade and Tizer amongst other things. Despite the backdrop of financial struggles, the collapse of the mining industry and unemployment, this story brings to mind those days of innocence when, with the support of good friends and some midget gems, you believed you could conquer the world. It reminds us that, despite technology and social media influences, the basic stuff of childhood: friendships, adventure, hope, resilience, facing up to bullies, all remain the same.
The relationships between the characters are wonderfully depicted. I loved how their personalities unfolded with the story and how they developed, as a group and as individuals. The depiction of the journey is so vividly detailed and pacy, you feel you are right there on the river path with them.
Richie and Jase have a great bond and the way their grief is described is just heartbreaking in its subtlety. Scenes dealing with their loss brought a lump to my throat several times.
This is a wonderful adventure story, reminiscent of Famous Fives and Stand By Me and it will stay with me for a while yet. I will definitely be recommending this one.
Thank you Netgalley for this eARC.
For MG readers this will be true historical fiction. For me, a child of the 70s, this was a true journey of nostalgia back to my childhood. The story references Trumpton, Jackanory, penny sweets, R White’s lemonade and Tizer amongst other things. Despite the backdrop of financial struggles, the collapse of the mining industry and unemployment, this story brings to mind those days of innocence when, with the support of good friends and some midget gems, you believed you could conquer the world. It reminds us that, despite technology and social media influences, the basic stuff of childhood: friendships, adventure, hope, resilience, facing up to bullies, all remain the same.
The relationships between the characters are wonderfully depicted. I loved how their personalities unfolded with the story and how they developed, as a group and as individuals. The depiction of the journey is so vividly detailed and pacy, you feel you are right there on the river path with them.
Richie and Jase have a great bond and the way their grief is described is just heartbreaking in its subtlety. Scenes dealing with their loss brought a lump to my throat several times.
This is a wonderful adventure story, reminiscent of Famous Fives and Stand By Me and it will stay with me for a while yet. I will definitely be recommending this one.
Thank you Netgalley for this eARC.
July 27, 2023
Where the River Takes Us by Lesley Parr
Read almost the entirety of Where the River Takes Us in one day, sitting in the garden before I got up to get my train to Abergavenny. Had to bite back tears a number of times! A beautiful story of friendship and love for each other, and ferocity, and community. It's just gorgeous.
It’s 1974, and working families have been hard by the three day week, especially Jason and his brother Richie, who has been looking after them both since their parents died. When word of a beast roaming the mountains spreads and a reward for a photo is offered, Jason and his friends set out on an adventure to win the cash.
There are a few things that I feel are such quintessential Welsh childhood experiences especially going off on daft exploration through the countryside, but it also has a really touching and honest portrayal of poverty due to parental bereavement, set within the miner's strikes.
There are two middle grade contemporary Welsh stories that I really love, Max Kowalski Didn't Mean and Where the River Takes Us, because both touch upon that desperate childhood hope of finding The One Thing that will solve a myriad of complex problems. It is, at its heart, a hopeful story where Jason tries to save his brother in turn, after Richie finds himself drawn into a criminal operation to try and keep them financially afloat. It's about love, familial and friend, or rather chosen family really.
I think I've talked about this before on twitter, but as a child I didn't really get to read much about Welsh childhoods - it was always English children visiting our country, and usually finding it hokey. Even now, at 34, reading books set in Wales gives me such a thrill.
Equally I read this at the same time as reading the tremendous Neon Roses by Rachel Dawson, both books set during miners strikes, though a decade apart, both deeply Welsh, and about discovery - that of friend-family and love, and that of queerness and community.
Read almost the entirety of Where the River Takes Us in one day, sitting in the garden before I got up to get my train to Abergavenny. Had to bite back tears a number of times! A beautiful story of friendship and love for each other, and ferocity, and community. It's just gorgeous.
It’s 1974, and working families have been hard by the three day week, especially Jason and his brother Richie, who has been looking after them both since their parents died. When word of a beast roaming the mountains spreads and a reward for a photo is offered, Jason and his friends set out on an adventure to win the cash.
There are a few things that I feel are such quintessential Welsh childhood experiences especially going off on daft exploration through the countryside, but it also has a really touching and honest portrayal of poverty due to parental bereavement, set within the miner's strikes.
There are two middle grade contemporary Welsh stories that I really love, Max Kowalski Didn't Mean and Where the River Takes Us, because both touch upon that desperate childhood hope of finding The One Thing that will solve a myriad of complex problems. It is, at its heart, a hopeful story where Jason tries to save his brother in turn, after Richie finds himself drawn into a criminal operation to try and keep them financially afloat. It's about love, familial and friend, or rather chosen family really.
I think I've talked about this before on twitter, but as a child I didn't really get to read much about Welsh childhoods - it was always English children visiting our country, and usually finding it hokey. Even now, at 34, reading books set in Wales gives me such a thrill.
Equally I read this at the same time as reading the tremendous Neon Roses by Rachel Dawson, both books set during miners strikes, though a decade apart, both deeply Welsh, and about discovery - that of friend-family and love, and that of queerness and community.
February 10, 2023
Brilliant. Loved it. This fab story is set against the backdrop of the Welsh Valleys, with the threat of miner’s strikes and power-cuts of the 1970s. A ‘right of passage’ story; four friends who learn to grow and understand what is important in life.
Supported by his gang of friends, Jason North carries the weight of the world, following a traumatic time for he and his older brother Richie who, is unprepared for the worries that adulthood brings.
This story reads so visually, easily and enjoyably, I felt I was watching a Welsh Valley ‘Stand By Me’. It was easy to imagine the friends faces, their expressions and even how they sounded and interacted. Such well executed and lovable characters with a believable storyline framed by a rich landscape full of adventures, with wastelands and abandoned buildings to play in.
Cant wait to read more by Lesley Parr
Many thanks to the Publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC.
Supported by his gang of friends, Jason North carries the weight of the world, following a traumatic time for he and his older brother Richie who, is unprepared for the worries that adulthood brings.
This story reads so visually, easily and enjoyably, I felt I was watching a Welsh Valley ‘Stand By Me’. It was easy to imagine the friends faces, their expressions and even how they sounded and interacted. Such well executed and lovable characters with a believable storyline framed by a rich landscape full of adventures, with wastelands and abandoned buildings to play in.
Cant wait to read more by Lesley Parr
Many thanks to the Publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC.
January 5, 2023
Where The River Takes Us is a heart-warming middle-grade adventure. I loved the setting: without wasting time on long descriptive passages, Parr's prose takes you right there, to the Welsh Valleys of the 1970s, a place and time that feels particularly pertinent to her story.
The four friends at the heart of the story are a plucky gang that young readers will relate to, and I enjoyed watching their friendship grow. The prose is personable and well-paced, with just the right mix of action, emotion and silliness. It's a simple premise and an entirely believable adventure, but with some deft storytelling it still makes a compelling read.
*Thank you to Netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review*
The four friends at the heart of the story are a plucky gang that young readers will relate to, and I enjoyed watching their friendship grow. The prose is personable and well-paced, with just the right mix of action, emotion and silliness. It's a simple premise and an entirely believable adventure, but with some deft storytelling it still makes a compelling read.
*Thank you to Netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review*
December 29, 2023
Middle grades adventure quest story set in the real world for strong readers age 10+. Key themes of grief, friendship, family and resilience.
August 26, 2024
I love everything about Lesley’s books, they are just the biggest, warmest hugs. I think it definitely helps that I grew up in the valleys, so the settings always feel familiar and like going home. One of my favourite things about Where the River Takes Us, is that I could clearly hear the Welsh accents of the characters in my head, the dialogue is just so perfect.
The story is reminiscent of Stand by Me, except a little more gentle. Four friends, an adventure to get a reward, bullies, lots of humour along the way. I can’t recommend it enough for any middle grade readers.
The story is reminiscent of Stand by Me, except a little more gentle. Four friends, an adventure to get a reward, bullies, lots of humour along the way. I can’t recommend it enough for any middle grade readers.
August 3, 2024
Great MG story of friendship; choices; a quest to find a creature with the backdrop of Wales and poverty of the 1970s. Like the fact that while the characters are predominantly young boys, there’s a nice strong female character who gets their respect and friendship.
The interactions between each other and between them and their nemesis rivals are very realistic without any PC sugar coating
The interactions between each other and between them and their nemesis rivals are very realistic without any PC sugar coating
April 27, 2024
Great story and very thoughtful. l think the cover is too young for the intended or perhaps unintended audience. It's a real heartfelt story about friendship and family overcoming grief and tragedy and its consequences.
June 19, 2023
Great story, great setting, great characters.
June 20, 2023
A great adventure read about overcoming grief, building relationships, and keeping hopeful. Would work well as a literature circles book for upper primary.
10+ Years
10+ Years
October 11, 2023
Where the River Takes Us by Lesley Parr is an enjoyable and thought-provoking middle-grade adventure set in rural Wales at the height of the miners' strikes and the Three-Day Week in the 1970s. As the film Stand by Me, it's a marvelling coming-of-age adventure tale that reminds us of the beauty of childhood: friendships, adventure, hope, resilience, and facing up to bullies all remain the same.
When Jason realises that Richie is struggling to make the mortgage payments and has become entangled in criminal activity, he comes up with a plan to help as he and his friends Catrin, Jinx and Tam set out on a quest to track down the Beast of Blaengarw and win a £100 reward from their local newspaper. They must navigate many setbacks and challenges, from raging bulls to bullies Gary and Dean, who are determined to get there first. But over the journey, they learn more about themselves and each other and start to understand what really matters.
As someone who enjoyed Parr's previous works, The Valley of Lost Secrets and When the War Came Home, in her third novel, I felt like I was a young child again during the time she had chosen to write about. There is a lot of vividness and spellbinding world-building that is just so excellently crafted you would want to read her bibliography again. I also found the relationships between the characters to be wonderfully depicted. I loved how their personalities unfolded with the story and how they developed as a group and as individuals.
March 26, 2023
A great read, recognising the 1970s and some of the struggles. Lovely characterisation, especially one I felt, no spoilers but read the book and find out!
March 5, 2023
Where The River Takes Us is a thrilling adventure set in the Welsh valleys during the turbulent socio-economic period of the 1970’s. This story transported me back to my childhood and had me gripped from the very first page.
We meet Jason and his older brother, and guardian, Ritchie who, with widespread strike action and a three-day week making work and wages hard to come by, are struggling financially to make ends meet. Richie, for the right reasons, makes some very bad choices and gets himself in debt with a local criminal gang. Jason finds out about this, and with his friends comes up with a plan to claim a £100 reward for photographing the ‘Beast of Blaengarw’, a giant cat reportedly stalking within the valleys further along the river.
Reminiscent of Blyton’s children setting off on a quest, with picnics and sleeping bags packed, Jason, Tam, Jinx and Catrin, rucksacks on backs, follow the river to Blaengarw. Of course, their journey is not without challenges. There are the lads who want to thwart their mission at every turn and claim the reward for themselves, as well as the unique Welsh landscape of mountains, barren wastelands and the odd angry bull to navigate. The river too has its own distinct character, constantly by their side, through both good and bad times and forcing both cooperation and courage, as the group attempt to cross it at a particularly tricky juncture.
Parr’s characterisation and setting are so richly drawn, it takes no effort to become fully immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of their adventure. As a child of the ‘70’s, I felt a huge rush of nostalgia recalling, in particular memories of foods, such as crisp butties, and a quarter of Midget Gems in a paper bag from the corner shop, as well as ‘Oh, You’ll Never Get To Heaven” and other songs sung as a seven-year old Brownie Guide!
This story is as rich in themes as it is in landscape, and Parr examines the impact not only of material hardships on communities, and especially upon children within such communities, but also the nature of family and friendship bonds. As importantly, Parr explores the nature and process of grief, with the huge spectrum of feelings and emotions this can encompass. She does this with such sensitivity and authenticity, providing the reader with multiple points of connection to Jason’s experience, on many different levels. Where The River Takes Us is as a result, both a truly impactful and empathy-boosting read.
Whilst there were certainly times that I shed tears reading this book, there were also moments that made me laugh out loud e.g. a certain lady tractor-driver. Contrasting elements of light and darkness within the story, mirror the changes in pace that Parr uses to successfully make the reader feel that they are travelling this journey alongside Jason and his friends. The addition of Welsh words and phrases also kept me anchored within the adventure and without giving spoilers, the ending was as thrilling and as satisfying as I had hoped it would be.
Readers age 9+ will enjoy following this action-packed story, as well as learning about a period in our history that they are unlikely to be familiar with though, given our current UK socio-economic climate, may find huge resonance in. In this regard, I feel they will also appreciate the closing pages in which Parr explains what life was like for many in 1970’s Britain, with major public service workers taking strike action, 3-day working weeks, widespread power shortages and the many hardships that then followed as a result. In many Welsh valley towns, the impact of industrial action in mining communities was particularly harsh, and this context adds even greater depth to Parr’s story.
I will certainly be recommending this stunning book to all my UKS2 pupils.
For me, a 5* read – a warm ‘cwtch’ in a book!
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced e-copy of this book which publishes with Bloomsbury on March 16th 2023.
We meet Jason and his older brother, and guardian, Ritchie who, with widespread strike action and a three-day week making work and wages hard to come by, are struggling financially to make ends meet. Richie, for the right reasons, makes some very bad choices and gets himself in debt with a local criminal gang. Jason finds out about this, and with his friends comes up with a plan to claim a £100 reward for photographing the ‘Beast of Blaengarw’, a giant cat reportedly stalking within the valleys further along the river.
Reminiscent of Blyton’s children setting off on a quest, with picnics and sleeping bags packed, Jason, Tam, Jinx and Catrin, rucksacks on backs, follow the river to Blaengarw. Of course, their journey is not without challenges. There are the lads who want to thwart their mission at every turn and claim the reward for themselves, as well as the unique Welsh landscape of mountains, barren wastelands and the odd angry bull to navigate. The river too has its own distinct character, constantly by their side, through both good and bad times and forcing both cooperation and courage, as the group attempt to cross it at a particularly tricky juncture.
Parr’s characterisation and setting are so richly drawn, it takes no effort to become fully immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of their adventure. As a child of the ‘70’s, I felt a huge rush of nostalgia recalling, in particular memories of foods, such as crisp butties, and a quarter of Midget Gems in a paper bag from the corner shop, as well as ‘Oh, You’ll Never Get To Heaven” and other songs sung as a seven-year old Brownie Guide!
This story is as rich in themes as it is in landscape, and Parr examines the impact not only of material hardships on communities, and especially upon children within such communities, but also the nature of family and friendship bonds. As importantly, Parr explores the nature and process of grief, with the huge spectrum of feelings and emotions this can encompass. She does this with such sensitivity and authenticity, providing the reader with multiple points of connection to Jason’s experience, on many different levels. Where The River Takes Us is as a result, both a truly impactful and empathy-boosting read.
Whilst there were certainly times that I shed tears reading this book, there were also moments that made me laugh out loud e.g. a certain lady tractor-driver. Contrasting elements of light and darkness within the story, mirror the changes in pace that Parr uses to successfully make the reader feel that they are travelling this journey alongside Jason and his friends. The addition of Welsh words and phrases also kept me anchored within the adventure and without giving spoilers, the ending was as thrilling and as satisfying as I had hoped it would be.
Readers age 9+ will enjoy following this action-packed story, as well as learning about a period in our history that they are unlikely to be familiar with though, given our current UK socio-economic climate, may find huge resonance in. In this regard, I feel they will also appreciate the closing pages in which Parr explains what life was like for many in 1970’s Britain, with major public service workers taking strike action, 3-day working weeks, widespread power shortages and the many hardships that then followed as a result. In many Welsh valley towns, the impact of industrial action in mining communities was particularly harsh, and this context adds even greater depth to Parr’s story.
I will certainly be recommending this stunning book to all my UKS2 pupils.
For me, a 5* read – a warm ‘cwtch’ in a book!
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced e-copy of this book which publishes with Bloomsbury on March 16th 2023.
February 20, 2023
It's the 1970s, and uber-unionised industries have shafted Britain, causing power outages and a three day working week – for those not on the picket line creating strike after strike. Young Jason and his friends have a mission, of going a day or two's trek up the Welsh valley we're set in, to blag a photo of a reported big cat and get the fame and reward from the local press. He and his older brother need the small fortune of the prize money, as it's just them now they are both parent-less orphans, and older brother has got involved with some rum 'uns and can't pay the bills. Can they avoid the village bullies, get the evidence of the big cat they need, and save the day? Or will the book just end up being an adventure about resilience, and above all friendship instead?
This was great fun – especially when I worked out it was not a near-future 2023, when uber-unionised industries have shafted Britain, Putin's caused power outages, and WFH practically means many people actually only do enough to justify a three day working week. The book doesn't admit when we're actually set until the end-matter, leaving the young audience somewhat struggling with clues such as the £20 mortgage, 3p newspapers, and so on – an old biddy is determined Jason needs to save half a penny here and there on his shopping bill. (Which is why, in best Blyton-meets-Children's-Film-Unit tradition, there are lashings of pop and penny chew purchases all over the place.)
What no audience will struggle with is the readability – the snappiest of chapters and the perfectly easy page-turning speeding us through this drama, and it is drama, even if it might on reflection appear a bitty little road trip narrative. It's peopled with likeable characters – well, the main gang certainly is well worth our company, even if the bullies of course aren't – and the variety of scenes and locations make this feel all the denser and all the more gripping for the target reader. It makes you wonder why there aren't more novels like this set in the Welsh valleys – a strong four stars.
This was great fun – especially when I worked out it was not a near-future 2023, when uber-unionised industries have shafted Britain, Putin's caused power outages, and WFH practically means many people actually only do enough to justify a three day working week. The book doesn't admit when we're actually set until the end-matter, leaving the young audience somewhat struggling with clues such as the £20 mortgage, 3p newspapers, and so on – an old biddy is determined Jason needs to save half a penny here and there on his shopping bill. (Which is why, in best Blyton-meets-Children's-Film-Unit tradition, there are lashings of pop and penny chew purchases all over the place.)
What no audience will struggle with is the readability – the snappiest of chapters and the perfectly easy page-turning speeding us through this drama, and it is drama, even if it might on reflection appear a bitty little road trip narrative. It's peopled with likeable characters – well, the main gang certainly is well worth our company, even if the bullies of course aren't – and the variety of scenes and locations make this feel all the denser and all the more gripping for the target reader. It makes you wonder why there aren't more novels like this set in the Welsh valleys – a strong four stars.
March 20, 2023
At this point, Lesley Parr could write a shopping list and I'd read it.
In 1970s Ponty, Wales, there have been sightings of a giant cat in the neighbouring town. Anyone who photographs it wins a monetary award, money that Jason North needs to keep his brother out of gang trouble and put food on the table. With his friends Catrin, Jinx and Tam, Jason dives into the Welsh countryside to find the beast – but the journey is sometimes more important than the destination...
Parr has such a unique talent at effortlessly bringing characters and their demons to life. Jason is a thirteen-year-old oprhan, under the care of his older brother Richie, during the time of the miner's strikes and three-day work week, and even so young he feels the burden of responsibility to help out around the house and save money where he can. His fears, his hopes, his joy and sadness is beautifully rendered with elegant prose.
Since the photography reward seems like the solution to all his problems, he drags along all his friends to find it, packing sweets and supplies for the long camping trip. Even though Jason has known Catrin, Jinx and Tam for a long time, you feel immediately included in their adventure and camaraderie, and better still, sense there is more for them to learn about each other. Their wonderful, realistic friendship group, with all the highs and lows that friendship brings, is a highlight of the book.
A timeless novel that will resonate with readers for years to come.
WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR? Obviously.
eARC received from Bloomsbury Children's Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This title released on the 16th March 2023.
LAST REVIEW
THE VALLEY OF LOST SECRETS ★★★★★
WHEN THE WAR CAME HOME ★★★★☆
In 1970s Ponty, Wales, there have been sightings of a giant cat in the neighbouring town. Anyone who photographs it wins a monetary award, money that Jason North needs to keep his brother out of gang trouble and put food on the table. With his friends Catrin, Jinx and Tam, Jason dives into the Welsh countryside to find the beast – but the journey is sometimes more important than the destination...
Parr has such a unique talent at effortlessly bringing characters and their demons to life. Jason is a thirteen-year-old oprhan, under the care of his older brother Richie, during the time of the miner's strikes and three-day work week, and even so young he feels the burden of responsibility to help out around the house and save money where he can. His fears, his hopes, his joy and sadness is beautifully rendered with elegant prose.
Since the photography reward seems like the solution to all his problems, he drags along all his friends to find it, packing sweets and supplies for the long camping trip. Even though Jason has known Catrin, Jinx and Tam for a long time, you feel immediately included in their adventure and camaraderie, and better still, sense there is more for them to learn about each other. Their wonderful, realistic friendship group, with all the highs and lows that friendship brings, is a highlight of the book.
A timeless novel that will resonate with readers for years to come.
WILL I READ MORE BY THIS AUTHOR? Obviously.
eARC received from Bloomsbury Children's Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This title released on the 16th March 2023.
LAST REVIEW
THE VALLEY OF LOST SECRETS ★★★★★
WHEN THE WAR CAME HOME ★★★★☆
January 10, 2023
Where The River Takes Us by Lesley Parr is a very engaging children’s novel set in the Welsh valleys in 1974.
1974 was a time of unrest in Britain with three day working weeks and regular power cuts. Times were hard for many but even harder for the leading character and his brother who had been orphaned after a car crash.
The story is told in the first person and we become intimately acquainted with the young boy. He is kind and caring, wise beyond his years. We see the need for identity, to be seen as an individual and not just the village orphan. Labels are constrictive, not giving the full picture.
There is a beautiful bond between the brothers. The older brother is trying to keep the pair of them together. At nineteen, he was forced to grow up quickly, resulting in abandonment by his mates. In order to survive, he has made some bad choices. In contrast, the lead character’s friends have drawn closer to him and are very protective.
The brotherly bond is palpable. The reader can ‘feel’ the desperation as each brother seeks to look after the other.
Where The River Takes Us is an adventure novel. It is also a tale of friendship. The reader witnesses the awkward love between friends – they feel friendship love but as early teens, there is a reluctance to show it.
Where The River Takes Us is perfect for ages ten years and over. In fact, it is a jolly good story whatever your age. There is adventure and deep-rooted friendship. I loved it.
I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
1974 was a time of unrest in Britain with three day working weeks and regular power cuts. Times were hard for many but even harder for the leading character and his brother who had been orphaned after a car crash.
The story is told in the first person and we become intimately acquainted with the young boy. He is kind and caring, wise beyond his years. We see the need for identity, to be seen as an individual and not just the village orphan. Labels are constrictive, not giving the full picture.
There is a beautiful bond between the brothers. The older brother is trying to keep the pair of them together. At nineteen, he was forced to grow up quickly, resulting in abandonment by his mates. In order to survive, he has made some bad choices. In contrast, the lead character’s friends have drawn closer to him and are very protective.
The brotherly bond is palpable. The reader can ‘feel’ the desperation as each brother seeks to look after the other.
Where The River Takes Us is an adventure novel. It is also a tale of friendship. The reader witnesses the awkward love between friends – they feel friendship love but as early teens, there is a reluctance to show it.
Where The River Takes Us is perfect for ages ten years and over. In fact, it is a jolly good story whatever your age. There is adventure and deep-rooted friendship. I loved it.
I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
May 19, 2023
Where the river takes us is the story of four friends who go on a camping trip to find a big cat who is supposedly living in the nearby mountains. A reward of £100 is being offered for a clear photo. For Jason, it’s the opportunity he’s been looking for to help his brother, Richie.
About 10 months before the story begins, Jason and Richie’s parents die in a car crash. Richie is 18 and Jason 13. Richie is appointed Jason’s guardian. This changes the dynamic of their relationship. Aunty Pearl, a family friend, comes by about once a week to help with some chores and others in the town help out where they can, but Jason finds their sympathy unhelpful. Meanwhile, Richie is struggling with the household finances. The story is set in Wales during the miners' strike in 1974 and Richie is only working three days a week.
Jason has two good mates, Jinx and Tam, who he spends a lot of time with on weekends and holidays. He’s also friends with the girl next door, Catrin, as they have known each other since birth and are about the same age. Initially, Jason is dismissive of the news reports about a big cat in the area, but when he realises the opportunity to make some money, the idea of a camping trip with his friends seems like a good idea.
Lesley Parr writes well and handles the issues of grief and loss realistically. The story does a good job of exploring the ongoing impact of tragedy from the perspective of a young teenager.
Thanks to Book Curator for providing a free book for review.
About 10 months before the story begins, Jason and Richie’s parents die in a car crash. Richie is 18 and Jason 13. Richie is appointed Jason’s guardian. This changes the dynamic of their relationship. Aunty Pearl, a family friend, comes by about once a week to help with some chores and others in the town help out where they can, but Jason finds their sympathy unhelpful. Meanwhile, Richie is struggling with the household finances. The story is set in Wales during the miners' strike in 1974 and Richie is only working three days a week.
Jason has two good mates, Jinx and Tam, who he spends a lot of time with on weekends and holidays. He’s also friends with the girl next door, Catrin, as they have known each other since birth and are about the same age. Initially, Jason is dismissive of the news reports about a big cat in the area, but when he realises the opportunity to make some money, the idea of a camping trip with his friends seems like a good idea.
Lesley Parr writes well and handles the issues of grief and loss realistically. The story does a good job of exploring the ongoing impact of tragedy from the perspective of a young teenager.
Thanks to Book Curator for providing a free book for review.
February 28, 2023
A Welsh Stand By Me. Touching, miners-strike era friendship tale.
One of my favourite films came to mind many times during the reading of this. That too was set in a bygone era, though still not all that long ago.
A group of friends in a small Welsh town determine they will go to another town a few miles away to try and photograph the Beast reported there. A £100 tempts them, but it's not for bikes and sweets. Jason and his older brother Richie are struggling to pay the mortgage after the death of their parents in a car crash, and his friends want to help him by finding proof of the Beast and giving him the reward.
Much like Stand By Me, we have different characters in the group, including a girl, as well as rival kids also on the trail of fame and fortune. There is bonding, danger, no leeches thank goodness, and a post-quest sequence where we see Jason and his 19-year-old brother have to overcome poor decisions to find resolution and balance again.
I really liked this. Humorous and easy style, the characters are all distinct and identifiable. Setting it in the era of the miners' strike is actually very relevant now, in the midst of the 2023 strikes of teachers, nurses and rail workers. Talk of old money and cultural references will most likely fascinate readers, as will the names of people and places.
One for ages 9-13.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.
One of my favourite films came to mind many times during the reading of this. That too was set in a bygone era, though still not all that long ago.
A group of friends in a small Welsh town determine they will go to another town a few miles away to try and photograph the Beast reported there. A £100 tempts them, but it's not for bikes and sweets. Jason and his older brother Richie are struggling to pay the mortgage after the death of their parents in a car crash, and his friends want to help him by finding proof of the Beast and giving him the reward.
Much like Stand By Me, we have different characters in the group, including a girl, as well as rival kids also on the trail of fame and fortune. There is bonding, danger, no leeches thank goodness, and a post-quest sequence where we see Jason and his 19-year-old brother have to overcome poor decisions to find resolution and balance again.
I really liked this. Humorous and easy style, the characters are all distinct and identifiable. Setting it in the era of the miners' strike is actually very relevant now, in the midst of the 2023 strikes of teachers, nurses and rail workers. Talk of old money and cultural references will most likely fascinate readers, as will the names of people and places.
One for ages 9-13.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.
November 6, 2023
Where the River Takes Us is a really unique piece of historical fiction for middle grade readers that I really enjoyed reading - the setting, characters and historical focus were different from anything I have read before and I really enjoyed learning about a time that not many middle grade authors write about.
Set in 1970s Wales, the main character is Jason, who has lost both of his parents in an accident. He and his brother Richie are just about getting by, but the government rationing and three day working weeks mean that things are difficult and Richie makes some questionnable decisions. There are rumours of a big cat living in the woods nearby and when a newspaper offers a £100 reward for a photograph, Jason and his friends Tam, Catrin and Jinx set off to get the photo to earn the reward.
It was a great story of friendship and how this evolves over time - at the start all of the children were struggling with their place in the group and how they fitted together but their quest made them realise that they were friends no matter what. The characters were all really different, with different backgrounds and home situations and this was dealt with really well, as was the grief that Jason felt around the loss of his parents.
It was an exciting and engaging story with lots to talk about - would make a great book to read together or to read in class. One of my favourites from this year!
Set in 1970s Wales, the main character is Jason, who has lost both of his parents in an accident. He and his brother Richie are just about getting by, but the government rationing and three day working weeks mean that things are difficult and Richie makes some questionnable decisions. There are rumours of a big cat living in the woods nearby and when a newspaper offers a £100 reward for a photograph, Jason and his friends Tam, Catrin and Jinx set off to get the photo to earn the reward.
It was a great story of friendship and how this evolves over time - at the start all of the children were struggling with their place in the group and how they fitted together but their quest made them realise that they were friends no matter what. The characters were all really different, with different backgrounds and home situations and this was dealt with really well, as was the grief that Jason felt around the loss of his parents.
It was an exciting and engaging story with lots to talk about - would make a great book to read together or to read in class. One of my favourites from this year!
November 25, 2022
Where the river takes us
By Lesley Parr
Published by Bloomsbury PLC
Another fabulous adventure from Lesley Parr who takes us on a journey of friendship, family values and trust.
It's February 1974 and the three day strike affects everyone. Loss of power, money and the miners strike. But for thirteen-year-old Jason and his older brother Richie, they feel the struggle more than most, ever since their parents died.
Richie is doing his best to be the man of the house, but since he can't make ends meet he's in with the wrong people.
So when the rumour of a wild cat roaming through the forest hits the village news Jason's friends convince him this is the answer to his money problems. A reward will make everything right. Or so they think.
And so the adventure starts. Where the river takes this group of mates, through tricky situations; tough and challenging decisions and dangerous positions. A quest like no other.
Another marvellous middle-grade page turner, with relatable teenage themes runs parallel with the historical fiction of the 1970’s.
Thank you Lesley Parr for a step back in time, growing up during these difficult times but a reminder of true loyalty and kindness “when the chips are down!”
Joanne Bardgett - Year 3 teacher of littlies, lover of children’s literature.
#Netgallery
#Bloomsbury
#lesleyparr
By Lesley Parr
Published by Bloomsbury PLC
Another fabulous adventure from Lesley Parr who takes us on a journey of friendship, family values and trust.
It's February 1974 and the three day strike affects everyone. Loss of power, money and the miners strike. But for thirteen-year-old Jason and his older brother Richie, they feel the struggle more than most, ever since their parents died.
Richie is doing his best to be the man of the house, but since he can't make ends meet he's in with the wrong people.
So when the rumour of a wild cat roaming through the forest hits the village news Jason's friends convince him this is the answer to his money problems. A reward will make everything right. Or so they think.
And so the adventure starts. Where the river takes this group of mates, through tricky situations; tough and challenging decisions and dangerous positions. A quest like no other.
Another marvellous middle-grade page turner, with relatable teenage themes runs parallel with the historical fiction of the 1970’s.
Thank you Lesley Parr for a step back in time, growing up during these difficult times but a reminder of true loyalty and kindness “when the chips are down!”
Joanne Bardgett - Year 3 teacher of littlies, lover of children’s literature.
#Netgallery
#Bloomsbury
#lesleyparr
February 6, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing for the ARC of this beautiful story
Where The River Takes Us is a beautiful and heartwarming story of friendship, family, and how we can always learn something else about one another as well as ourselves
Set in the Welsh Valleys in 1974, Where The River Takes Us is a story about four friends who set off to find this strange creature - a local urban myth, to help Jason and his brother out with a cash reward after losing their parents in a car accident.
I loved the use of Welsh sayings - like ‘cwtch’ and ‘I’ll be there now in a minute’, and ‘twp’. Being originally from Wales it just warmed my heart picturing the Welsh countryside and the adventure these children were having.
It’s a story about friendship, and always having one another’s backs, but it also speaks about grief, and the loss of a parent. In this case for Jason and his brother Ritchie, it’s both parents. The way that Lesley touches on this and how she wrote about the build up of grief honestly could not have been written more perfectly. I really found that it was touching and considerate. To also mention this in a middle grade book was something I really thought was beautiful.
If ever you need an escape to the beautiful Welsh countryside, make sure you pick this up when it releases on March 26.
Where The River Takes Us is a beautiful and heartwarming story of friendship, family, and how we can always learn something else about one another as well as ourselves
Set in the Welsh Valleys in 1974, Where The River Takes Us is a story about four friends who set off to find this strange creature - a local urban myth, to help Jason and his brother out with a cash reward after losing their parents in a car accident.
I loved the use of Welsh sayings - like ‘cwtch’ and ‘I’ll be there now in a minute’, and ‘twp’. Being originally from Wales it just warmed my heart picturing the Welsh countryside and the adventure these children were having.
It’s a story about friendship, and always having one another’s backs, but it also speaks about grief, and the loss of a parent. In this case for Jason and his brother Ritchie, it’s both parents. The way that Lesley touches on this and how she wrote about the build up of grief honestly could not have been written more perfectly. I really found that it was touching and considerate. To also mention this in a middle grade book was something I really thought was beautiful.
If ever you need an escape to the beautiful Welsh countryside, make sure you pick this up when it releases on March 26.
February 18, 2023
A Book that's story is as relevant today as it was in the time it's set 1974. Four friends set of on a quest to find & photograph The Beast of Blaengarw, many people claim to have seen it but no one has any actual proof & there's a £100 reward , so a group of friends three lads & a girl decide to go & get proof because that reward money could save their friend Jason's home ! Their families are living with strikes namely the Miner's who want better pay & working conditions , so other businesses are working just three day weeks , the power is off during the daytime & only on for a narrow window of time in the evenings , much of this resonates with what is happening all over the country this winter . I think other adults as well as children will enjoy this book . #NetGalley, #GoodReads, #FB, #Instagram, #Amazon.co.uk, #
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'Where the River Takes Us' is an enjoyable and thought-provoking middle-grade adventure set in rural Wales at the height of the miners' strikes and the Three-Day Week in the 1970s. Times are tough for everyone but particularly for Jason and his older brother Richie whose parents were killed in a car accident and must now fend for themselves or risk being split up.
When Jason realises that Richie is struggling to make the mortgage payments and has become entangled in criminal activity, he comes up with a plan to help as he and his friends Catrin, Jinx and Tam set out on a quest to track down the Beast of Blaengarw and win a £100 reward from their local newspaper. They must navigate lots of setbacks and challenges a long the way, from raging bulls to bullies Gary and Dean who are determined to get there first. But over the course of the journey they learn more about themselves and each other and start to understand what really matters.
Older primary readers will enjoy following this action-packed story at the same time as learning about a period in history that will probably be unfamiliar to them (but has striking resonances with now) and exploring themes such as bereavement, poverty and friendship. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC to review.
When Jason realises that Richie is struggling to make the mortgage payments and has become entangled in criminal activity, he comes up with a plan to help as he and his friends Catrin, Jinx and Tam set out on a quest to track down the Beast of Blaengarw and win a £100 reward from their local newspaper. They must navigate lots of setbacks and challenges a long the way, from raging bulls to bullies Gary and Dean who are determined to get there first. But over the course of the journey they learn more about themselves and each other and start to understand what really matters.
Older primary readers will enjoy following this action-packed story at the same time as learning about a period in history that will probably be unfamiliar to them (but has striking resonances with now) and exploring themes such as bereavement, poverty and friendship. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC to review.
April 12, 2023
Finished this last night in bed and like all Lesley Parr’s other books, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The author imbues all her books with heart, humanity and complete period and character authenticity, without any tweeness or didacticism that sometimes creeps into middle grade. In this one, we’re off on an adventure with three great mates and a girl who two of the gang are a little resentful of at first, wanting this to be “lads only” of course. One of the many enjoyable sub-plots is seeing Catrin’s natural toughness and kindness emerge, meeting the boys on their own terms and earning their respect and admiration in the process. They’re off to hunt for a mysterious big cat, the kind of elusive sighting that always seems to crop up in the British press every few months. At the same time, they’re dealing with the pressure of living in hard times in 1974 Wales. The period detail is enjoyable and spot on, from crisp sandwiches, blackouts and 3-day weeks, to Tizer and the mystery of why they ever thought coffee flavoured revels was a good idea lol. Highly recommended and as always, look forward to seeing what the author does next.
April 12, 2023
When Jason’s parents are killed in a car accident, it’s up to his older brother Richie, to look after them both. Set in the 1970s, the three day working week is making it difficult to meet the mortgage payments and the brothers think the worst thing that could happen to them now, is that they’d lose their house and have to live apart.
With rumours of a wild cat living in a neighbouring valley and the offer of a £100 reward for anyone able to photograph this beast, Jason decides this is his best hope of securing their future. He decides to set out on a quest with friends to be the first to photograph the animal.
I loved the historical details the author includes about life in the 1970s, but most of all, I loved the story about friendship, sticking up for those you care about and facing up to grief. Another excellent book by Lesley Parr.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
With rumours of a wild cat living in a neighbouring valley and the offer of a £100 reward for anyone able to photograph this beast, Jason decides this is his best hope of securing their future. He decides to set out on a quest with friends to be the first to photograph the animal.
I loved the historical details the author includes about life in the 1970s, but most of all, I loved the story about friendship, sticking up for those you care about and facing up to grief. Another excellent book by Lesley Parr.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 26, 2023
Loss, friendship and adventure - this book has something for everyone!
It's 1974 and working class families have been hit by tough times meaning there is less work and less money to get by on. For 13-year old Jason, times are especially hard - ever since his parents dies, it's just been him and his older brother, Richie, and although Richie is trying his best, he has started to get involved with the wrong people, meaning the constant fear that he and Jason will be separated.
So, Jason welcomes the distraction of an urban legend about a beast that lives in the forest, up the river from his hometown. When Jason's friends learn of a reward for proof that the beast exists, they convince him that it is the answer to all of Jason and Richie's worries. So, a quest begins...
A tale of loss, friendship and adventure, Where the River Takes Us is a great read for KS2 children, with short, snappy chapters that make it perfect for bedtime reading or the classroom.
It's 1974 and working class families have been hit by tough times meaning there is less work and less money to get by on. For 13-year old Jason, times are especially hard - ever since his parents dies, it's just been him and his older brother, Richie, and although Richie is trying his best, he has started to get involved with the wrong people, meaning the constant fear that he and Jason will be separated.
So, Jason welcomes the distraction of an urban legend about a beast that lives in the forest, up the river from his hometown. When Jason's friends learn of a reward for proof that the beast exists, they convince him that it is the answer to all of Jason and Richie's worries. So, a quest begins...
A tale of loss, friendship and adventure, Where the River Takes Us is a great read for KS2 children, with short, snappy chapters that make it perfect for bedtime reading or the classroom.
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