Talking to Alaska

‘A super original, tense YA story about two struggling outsiders, connected by a dog – it's timeless and clever.’

‘Talking to Alaska's strong characters and intriguing plot are powerful hooks into this heartfelt story.’

‘Parker and Sven can't stand each other but I loved them both from the very first page. Feisty and believable, both vulnerable in different ways, they are linked together by Alaska, Parker's beloved dog who, she discovers, now belongs to Sven. Themes of friendship, loneliness, damage and privacy are woven into a tense story with characters that jump off the page, this will be an unmissable debut in the UK.’

‘From the start Alaska caught me with its unclichéd voices. It has two strikingly engaging young protagonists: the boy determined to be known for something other than his epilepsy and the outsider girl in mourning for her lost dog. Original in both the prose and the characterisation, this friendship drama and mystery story is a cut above.’

‘From the very first pages you are invested in the main characters. Big issues are dealt with in a sensitive accessible way and the story moves at a terrific pace. Highly recommended.’

‘This is a riveting story with an intricate plot, wonderfully told. Epilepsy… is very sensitively handled. Adolescent surges of feelings such as loyalty, anger and love are skilfully integrated into the plot. The translator, Laura Watkinson, deserves special thanks for bringing her considerable skill to making this story accessible to an English audience.’