Andrea O'Brien Libros

I always thought you'd know, somehow, if something terrible was going to happen. I thought you'd sense it, like when the air goes damp and heavy before a storm and you know you'd better hide yourself away somewhere safe until it all blows over. But it turns out it's not like that at all. There's no scary music playing in the background like in films. No warning signs. Not even a lonely magpie. One for sorrow, Mum used to say. Quick, look for another. The world can tip at any moment - a fact that fifteen-year-old Pearl is all too aware of when her Mum dies after giving birth to her baby sister. Told across the year following her mother's death, Pearl's story is full of bittersweet humour and heartbreaking honesty about how you deal with grief that cuts you to the bone, as she tries not only to come to terms with losing her Mum, but also the fact that her sister - The Rat - is a constant reminder of why her Mum is no longer around.

The story explores the complexities of marriage and family dynamics through the experiences of Keru and Nate, who come from contrasting backgrounds. As they navigate the challenges of integrating their families during two vacation trips, tensions arise that force them to confront hidden truths about their relationship. With a giant sheepdog named Mantou by their side, they grapple with issues of identity, belonging, and the pressures of familial expectations. The narrative poses thought-provoking questions about love, family, and the effort required to maintain harmony amidst differences.