This book is from the point of view of Ella's best friend Claire.
Like all of David Almond's stories, this book is very emotional and moving. It is all about teenagers, life's ups and downs with a bit of mythology thrown in to make things more interesting(or to make it duller if you don't like myth!)
Claire and Ella and their friends are like normal teens in every way until one Easter holiday when Claire's life becomes much, much harder. She and her friends are hanging out on the beach when strange Orpheus comes and enchants them all with his music with tragic consequences. The story then focuses much more on Ella.
I really like the characters of Claire and Ella – you could imagine them in your life. This is why what happens to them really hits home and makes you feel empathy for them. This story really draws you in and, although the ending is sad, I'm pleased I read it. I continued to think about the book after I had finished it. Be warned – there's a gruesome bit at the end but this is important for the story.
If you already like David Almond, then this won't disappoint. If this is your first David Almond, then you'll want to read more.
• Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop.
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