The Year of the Rat by Clare Furniss is a tragic story of a girl losing her mother while attempting to deal and cope with her feelings.
Firstly, before I get into the whole plot and synopsis, I just want to say this: Clare Furniss understands. Her writing is so real, honest and true, dealing with the subject of death the way she does replicates the true emotions. I feel that hardly any authors can do this as successfully as Furniss, I was able to connect to the author and the story in what was going on and the emotions which I was able to feel, too.
The story follows Pearl, beginning with her mother's funeral, we experience Pearl and her initial turmoil especially since there is a baby left behind unable to cope she begins what some would seem to think self-destructive behaviour. However, before this occurs Pearl begins to see her mother, not only see her but hear her too and talk!
The story progresses while Pearl is trying to find where she fits in her family, wondering whether she should leave to find her biological father or stay with the Rat. Pearl's character is portrayed perfectly, everything about her is almost how you expect someone would react but this is the most honest portrayal, and one which I loved. The characters and story is embedded into your mind and is one which wishes to stay with you.
I did thoroughly enjoy this story but it wasn't one which I felt I fully connected it but was still a strong story. Regardless this story is still marvellous, delightful, honest and incredible and I suggest anyone to read it.
• Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop.
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