Awards and Honors2008 ALA Best Book for Young Adults | Book Sense Children’s Picks – Summer 2007 | Kirkus Reviews–Best Young Adult Books 2007 | Publishers Weekly – Best Children’s Books 2007, Children’s Fiction
"The Coolbar fields floated away, hedgerows trammeled on either side. She didn't know where they were taking her. The only thing she could hear was the word dead clanging in her brain, over and over like an Angelus bell." Two newborn infants are found dead in a small village, and fifteen-year-old Shell Talent is caught up in a scandal that shocks all of Ireland. Inspired by a true story. Library edition with trade jacket added. Shortlisted for the 2007 Carnegie Medal.
Summary Since her mother’s death, Shell has been responsible for the house and children. Her father, a collector of funds “for the church” has been increasingly absent or drunk. Shell misses her mother and believes she sees her spirit from time to time. Shell’s only pleasure, aside from hearing Father Rose preach, is being teased by Declan. Her flirtation with Declan escalates suddenly into a sexual affair, leaving Shell pregnant and alone. Assisted only by Trix and Jimmy, Shell gives birth to a stillborn baby. When another newborn is found dead of exposure, Shell is accused of being the murdering mother, with the town believing Father Rose is the baby’s biological father.
Topics Church. Death of a mother. Faith. Mortification of the flesh. Poverty. Kindness. Friends. Bras. Shoplifting. Seeing ghosts. Drunkenness. Kissing. Jealousy. Fights. Car rides. Brothers and sisters. Illness. Overhearing unpleasant facts. Sexual propositions. Lovers. Missing your period. Libraries. Pregnancy. Parting. Decisions. Secrets. Christmas. Seeking help. Spiritual crises. Birth. Stillborns. Burial. Arrest. Interrogation. Murder. False confessions. Proof. News reports. Accusations. Recanting confessions. Physical evidence. Realizations. Loss of faith.
SRC Level 3.300000
SRC Points 16.000000
Lexile 560L
Trim Size 5 1/2" x 8 1/4"
Language English
JLG Release Date Jul 2007
Minimum grade 11
Maximum grade 12
Reading level High
Format Print
Mature Young Adult Plus (Grades 11 & Up)
Mature Young Adult Plus
Mature Young Adult Plus (Grades 11 & Up)
For Grades 11 & Up
Filled with stimulating nonfiction and can't-put-it-down fiction, this category is perfect for bridging the gap between young adult and adult reading. Take note: these 14 selections often contain mature situations and language that could be considered controversial.