REVIEW: Dandelion Clocks by Rebecca Westcott

Dandelion Clocks by Rebecca Westcott

RATING: *****

GENRE: YA Contemporary

FIND IT ON GOODREADS

BUY IT ON AMAZON

Dandelion Clocks by Rebecca Westcott Smith will be loved by fans of Jacqueline Wilson, Cathy Cassidy or Annabel Pitcher. Liv takes us on a journey through her life from "Thirteen Weeks Before" to "Six Months After". We discover Liv's passion for photography, her brother's obsession with sticking to the rules, the stupidity of Moronic Louise at school, and how the family copes as Mum's terminal illness takes hold...Guided by Mum's own childhood diaries, Liv finds a new way to live. This book is real, funny, utterly touching and absolutely heartwarming. Despite the sadness at the heart of the story, every reader will laugh and keep on turning the pages, charmed by Liv and her mum. 
"A brilliantly told, ultra modern story about a significant six months in eleven year old Olivia's life - it should be sold with a large box of tissues!" (Jacqueline Wilson).

MY THOUGHTS:A fantastic debut novel from a very talented author! Despite the tears that will definitely be running down your face, this stunning work of literature will leave you with a smile on your face and very grateful of what you have got. A great approach to some very sensitive issues.

Liv is an 11 year old girl who his having an eventful year. Having to deal with Moronic Louise, getting her crush to notice her and her Aspergers brother, the fact that her Mum is now terminally ill just tips the boat. Aided by her photography and Mum's diaries, Liv discovers life in a time when it is being most unkind to her. Told from thirteen weeks before her Mum's death to six months after, this story is truly inspiring.

The issues tackled in this book are very apparent. Told in a beautiful way, these issues are presented sensitively and realistic. I really came to love the character Isaac - Liv's brother who suffers from Aspergers Syndrome. Her is very lovable due to his vulnerability and frank attitude. The relationship built between Liv and her brother is a stunning one - showing the love between siblings, the caring role Liv takes on and the obvious frustrations she feels about him. As for her terminally ill Mum, the situation was built in a fantastic way which is easy to relate to. The process of dying though terribly sad, is portrayed as just a part of life. This book can really enlighten and strengthen anyone going through a similar situation.

Overall, a fantastic novel that is beautifully written and intelligently tackling some sensitive issues. Great for Jacqueline Wilson fans! 

If you loved this, I would definitely recommend The Twice Lived Summer of Bluebell Jones by Susie Day!