Not really sure why I had been attracted to it as it is definitely not a subject matter that I would usually read, I would be concerned that I would find it depressing.
However, having recently read ‘wonder’ another book which was not in my comfort zone I started this book.
I found myself easily engrossed in the story of Matthew and his family. In places the story is heart breaking in others it is uplifting. You do find yourself wondering what triggered his illness, was it the death of his brother, or the way his mum coped with the death of his brother or perhaps it was hereditary? Maybe none of those things? How do people cope …in these situations? How would I cope in this situation? The story of how Matthew is treat by the medical community is very interesting, but it also seemed to show the good and the bad elements of his care. Also, how is family and his friendships changed and survived over the years. It really does make you reach deep inside and ask yourself how your family would have coped? I would happily read another book by Nathan Filer, this is an excellent first novel and I would certainly recommend this to a reading group.