Friendship & Adventure

Where The River Takes Us by Lesley Parr is a very engaging children’s novel set in the Welsh valleys in 1974.

1974 was a time of unrest in Britain with three day working weeks and regular power cuts. Times were hard for many but even harder for the leading character and his brother who had been orphaned after a car crash.

The story is told in the first person and we become intimately acquainted with the young boy. He is kind and caring, wise beyond his years. We see the need for identity, to be seen as an individual and not just the village orphan. Labels are constrictive, not giving the full picture.

There is a beautiful bond between the brothers. The older brother is trying to keep the pair of them together. At nineteen, he was forced to grow up quickly, resulting in abandonment by his mates. In order to survive, he has made some bad choices. In contrast, the lead character’s friends have drawn closer to him and are very protective.

The brotherly bond is palpable. The reader can ‘feel’ the desperation as each brother seeks to look after the other.

Where The River Takes Us is an adventure novel. It is also a tale of friendship. The reader witnesses the awkward love between friends – they feel friendship love but as early teens, there is a reluctance to show it.

Where The River Takes Us is perfect for ages ten years and over. In fact, it is a jolly good story whatever your age. There is adventure and deep-rooted friendship. I loved it.

I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON