Jenny Downham crafts compelling narratives that delve into the profound emotional landscapes of young protagonists facing significant life challenges. Her writing is characterized by an intimate, first-person perspective that draws readers deeply into the characters' experiences and internal struggles. Downham's distinctive voice explores themes of mortality, resilience, and the complexities of the human spirit. Her work offers a powerful and empathetic look at navigating difficult circumstances with courage.
Three lives. Three secrets. One heartbreaking story. Shortlisted for the YA Book Prize
Exploring the lives of three generations of women, this novel delves into the complexities of dementia, the challenges of single motherhood, and the struggles of teenage angst. Jenny Downham's poignant storytelling captures the emotional depth and resilience of her characters, offering a profound look at family dynamics and personal growth.
If only Lexi could stop losing her temper and behave herself, her step-father would accept her, her mum would love her like she used to and her step-brother would declare his crushing desire to spend the rest of his life with her. But pushing fury down doesn't make it disappear. Instead, it simmers below the surface waiting to erupt
If someone hurts your sister and you're any kind of man, you seek revenge, right? When Mikey's sister claims a boy assaulted her, his world begins to fall apart. If your brother's accused of a terrible crime but says he didn't do it, you defend him, don't you? When Ellie's brother is charged with the offence, her world begins to unravel. When Mikey and Ellie meet, two worlds collide. (From book cover).
Tessa has just months to live. Fighting back against hospital visits, endless tests, and drugs with excruciating side effects, Tessa compiles a list. It's her To Do Before I Die list. And number one is Sex. Released from the constraints of "normal" life, Tessa tastes new experiences to make her feel alive while her failing body struggles to keep up. Tessa's feelings, her relationships with her father and brother, her estranged mother, her best friend, and her new boyfriend, are all painfully crystallized in the precious weeks before Tessa's time finally runs out.