My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece - Tapa dura

I loved this book because it is one of the few books that have made me cry. Yet it still has an uplifting theme of hope which carries you through the sad moments. I couldn't put this book down but not because it is action packed, not because it is frightening and not because it's exciting just because you can't stop reading until you know Jamie will be OK. (Rosie, age 13 READING ZONE)

(cont) Another thing I love is how contemporary issues such as racism, divorce and terrorism are explored through the eyes of a family Affected by all of them. A really great book and I can't wait for the next book by this new writer. (Rosie, age 13 READING ZONE)

I think that the book is very interestINg because it shows how some people cope, or fail to cope with difficult situations... this book stirs up the emotions we face when challenged by split loyalties betweens friends and families. (James, age 12)

I thought the plot was really clever. I like the way that the plot was based around true events that occured... also it is based on things that happen in life in this age... (Ruhaan, age 12)

it is fantastic. Sad but fantastic - I loved it! (Tonicha, age 12 READING ZONE)

This is a remarkable debut about a boy whose home life is blighted by a tragedy that breaks up his family. How the author, Annabel Pitcher, manages to confront so many issues including divorce, bullying and alcoholism - and keep us reading - is a tribute to the warmth, insight and gentle humour within its pages. I loved the characters she develops, the relationships she builds, and the pace and completeness of the novel. She is definitely one to watch. (Caroline Horn THE BOOKSELLER)

A compelling and courageous novel. (Jenny Downham, author of BEFORE I DIE)

If there was a book to redefine the phrase 'emotional rollercoaster' it's this one... There are a few things we love about this book which don't include the fact that it'll make you cry out loud. Because this is not your bog standard weepy. All the characters come bouncing to life and you learn to like them (sort of) despite their flaws and the mistakes they make. Secondly, it might be tragic, but really, it's about hope and bravery and believe it or not it's pretty funny too. (SUGARSCAPE.COM)

Begin reading this book and you'll be utterly mesmerised by the voice of a ten year old boy... MY SISTER LIVES ON THE MANTELPIECE will bring both laughter and tears to the reader, both young and old... a debut novel from an author with a bright future. (LOVEREADING4KIDS)

This is a corker of a children's/ YA novel as it examines grief and how it can tear families apart... This novel will make you laugh and cry - Jamie is one of the most credible child narrators I have ever encountered and you feel drawn right into his world - warts and all. (LOVELY TREEZ READS)