just in case summary. 15分

Just in case summary:
Age 14+ Meg Rosoff's second book for teenagers is as much of a treat as the first. The way she puts her words on the page is superb and gives the reader the impression that they are eavesdropping on someone who has a rich inner life. This is at times disconcerting, but gives a great insight into the inner musings of a boy, David (aka Justin) who, at fifteen, is convinced that fate is out to get him. He rescues his baby brother, Charlie, as he is poised to topple out the window. This event catapults him into a gloomy sense that his life is balanced on the edge, necessitating drastic measures. To trick fate, he changes his name and the way he looks and leaves home. He is befriended by Agnes Bee - a girl determined to make a name for herself in photography - and together they have some near misses before Justin realises that fate is not necessarily fatal.

The varied writing styles, the characterisation, the witty dialogue, the bolded interjections of fate, baby brother Charlie's thoughts and the currency of the events add to the charm and impact of the story. The varied voices add interest and complexity. The reasonable voices of his friend Peter Prince and his sister Dorothea juxtapose another interpretation of life. The feel of the book reminded me of Mark Haddon's The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time because we see so much of it through David's inner monologue. Even his imaginary dog, Boy, is convincing; such is the power of the narrative. Once or twice I was confused by developments, but I found it a gripping, intriguing read. It will appeal to both boys and girls and is a must for the shelves.


Hope this can help!