Jasper Jones

So, between this and Demon Copperhead, I've learned something about myself as a reader.

I am not the audience for books with teenage boy protagonists, no matter how well written. In fact, the better written it is, the more I'm probably not into it.

Because here's the thing: I was a teenage boy (allegedly), and I went to an all-boys high school, and I hatedevery moment of it. I have zero interest in reading about cis white male adolescence, no thank you kindly please, I opt out, delete my number, warmest regards henceforth.

I badly wanted to love this one because it's one of mother's favorites, and she's my favorite person, but, I just kinda didn't dislike it?

Totally loved this book. What an exciting ride which really gathered pace as it reached its climax. Really felt for the characters and certainly see the connection with To Kill a Mockingbird. Highly recommended.

Lush southern gothic of the Australian genus. Also: murder mystery and coming of age tale that owes much to Harper Lee and Mark Twain.