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Falling for Joshua ISBN: 9781841218588
Keaney, Brian
Published by Orchard, 2001
Fourteen year old Abi has epilepsy - has had it since she was nine and had her first seizure at a friend's birthday party. When she meets Josh, they are attracted and begin seeing each other. But she is concerned that he doesn't know about her epilepsy, and she finds all sorts of reasons for not telling him. Her mum is strong and over-protective, and Abi often feels she is running her life. A second strand of the story has to do with Abi's older sister Laura and her irresponsible, artistic husband and their baby. The themes throughout are truthfulness, acting responsibly and learning to face up to exactly who one is. The plot is strong, the characterizations very well done, and the facts and feelings about epilepsy are woven in seamlessly. The cover looks as thoug the book is intended for older teenagers, but the style of writing and the subject matter will appeal to years 7 and 8 as well. The book is endorsed by the British Epilepsy Association, and a helpline and Web address are given.
Age: 11+