Trials and Tribulations of a Talented Teen
by Robin Lee-Robinson
After finishing Book 2 in this series I was itching to find out what happened to Jack’s mysterious grandmother. Book 3, focuses on Rosalyn’s diaries in 1983 when she was 15-16 years old.
The backdrop of the story is Gisborne, 1983, and the author’s depiction of this era of New Zealand’s cultural norms and values shows a contrast to today. These differences would be an eye-opener to many teenagers, including the absence of technology.
Teenage Rosalyn, has a distinct personality, with a self-absorbed vision and confidence. Undeterred by society’s expectations, Rosalyn, is intent on forging the life of her dreams regardless of any gender barriers or external constraints. Her complete disregard for anyone else’s point of view results in many hilarious episodes and misunderstandings.
There’s a strong emphasis throughout this series on whanau bonds throughout the generations.
At the back, there’s a glossary of Maori words and phrases.
With pages dwindling towards the end of the book, I wondered if Rosalyn’s mysterious disappearance was going to be resolved satisfactorily, or if I was going to be kept in suspense. The ending was surprising, but also cleverly foreshadowed.
by Robin Lee-Robinson
After finishing Book 2 in this series I was itching to find out what happened to Jack’s mysterious grandmother. Book 3, focuses on Rosalyn’s diaries in 1983 when she was 15-16 years old.
The backdrop of the story is Gisborne, 1983, and the author’s depiction of this era of New Zealand’s cultural norms and values shows a contrast to today. These differences would be an eye-opener to many teenagers, including the absence of technology.
Teenage Rosalyn, has a distinct personality, with a self-absorbed vision and confidence. Undeterred by society’s expectations, Rosalyn, is intent on forging the life of her dreams regardless of any gender barriers or external constraints. Her complete disregard for anyone else’s point of view results in many hilarious episodes and misunderstandings.
There’s a strong emphasis throughout this series on whanau bonds throughout the generations.
At the back, there’s a glossary of Maori words and phrases.
With pages dwindling towards the end of the book, I wondered if Rosalyn’s mysterious disappearance was going to be resolved satisfactorily, or if I was going to be kept in suspense. The ending was surprising, but also cleverly foreshadowed.
Review by Wendy Scott
Award-Winning Children’s Author
Award-Winning Children’s Author
Title: Trials and Tribulations of a Talented Teen
Author: Robin Lee-Robinson
Publisher: Red Hen Books
ISBN: 978-0-473-59447-3
RRP: $25
Available: Paperback from author website Robin Lee-Robinson Books
or [email protected]
Author: Robin Lee-Robinson
Publisher: Red Hen Books
ISBN: 978-0-473-59447-3
RRP: $25
Available: Paperback from author website Robin Lee-Robinson Books
or [email protected]
RSS Feed
