Against the Odds

Against the Odds by Marjolijn Hof (Allen and Unwin)

PB RRP $15.99

ISBN 9781742375083

Reviewed by Nean McKenzie

This is a book about war written for young children aged about eight to eleven years old. First published in the Netherlands this 2009 translation was written, rather interestingly, by two people with the same name (Johanna H Prins and Johanna W Prins). With simple writing appropriate for the audience, Against the Odds deals with the consequences of war and how you feel when something happens to someone you love. It’s dealt with in a gentle way with some humour and is quite moving.

Kiki’s father is a doctor who is frequently away, working to help people in countries at war. Kiki is understandably worried about him although both her parents try to reassure her that he’ll be okay. Her worst fears are realised however when her father actually does go missing. Powerless to do anything about the situation, Kiki finds herself behaving quite strangely. This very believable and sometimes funny response brings the reader closer to Kiki in the confusion and uncertainty surrounding her father’s disappearance. 

Kiki’s voice is distinctive and the writing is clever, saying much in few words. The book has only 126 pages and is broken up into short chapters making it quite easy to read. There are ‘adult’ issues that are dealt with, but they are issues that can and do affect children and are important for them to read about. In writing in such an accessible way Marjolijn Hof manages to both entertain her reader and show them the strength they have as children to cope with just about anything. 

The Vanilla Assassin

The Vanilla Assassin by AN Boswell (Brolga Publishing)

PB RRP $24.99

ISBN 978-192159614-8

Reviewed by Kathryn Duncan

Set during the 30 Years War, The Vanilla Assassin is an engrossing read about a young boy, Gustave, gifted, or cursed, with the ability to change his appearance to that of another person.  In a time where witches are burned at the stake, doppelganger’s, as Gustave’s type are called, are feared throughout the community.

Guided by his father, Artur, Gustave works using his shape changing ability and The Vanilla Assassin leads us through Gustave’s preparation for his next, but for him unknown, job.  Befriended by the Jesuit Priest by whom he is employed, Gustave is accepted into Dresden’s elite music school lead by composer Heinrich Schutz, a person that Gustave soon comes to respect.

Gustave’s character development throughout the novel is that from young boy to adult. He is challenged in more ways that he could expect, firstly dealing with the absence of his father who has always controlled what jobs Gustave does, the development of trust in Father Friedrich, his growing affection for Schutz and the blossoming of romance with fellow student, Sophie.  Gustave’s feelings for each relationship is challenged and the final realisation of what his “job” involves has him questioning his role.  It also raises the question of what is the value of love - for a child, a parent, a mentor, a teacher and a friend.

The Vanilla Assassin is a great story that touches on the religion and politics of the era, but is not overwhelmed by it. The story is essentially the journey of a young boy to manhood.  It flows beautifully, is well written and keeps you reading so those elements of the story that are hinted at or anticipated can be revealed - and always revealed at the right moment - just when you think you want to glimpse ahead.

The reader develops what can only be called affection for Gustave, and compassion for the position he has found himself in. The Vanilla Assassin certainly left this reviewer searching for time to sit down and read it. If you do not think of historical fiction as a genre that you would normally consider, I would highly recommend obtaining a copy of The Vanilla Assassin, finding a nice quiet spot where you can read it uninterrupted and enjoying it.  And best of all, it has a small twist at the end.  Highly recommended for older readers.