Today I attended the local launch of my friend James’ third wonderful novel: The Young City.
It’s a continuation of the story begun in The Unwritten Girl & Fathom Five, and it’s a fine conclusion to this “trilogy” (though further adventures would be welcome). It’s full of rich & fabulous historical detail, some very witty dialogue, and a wonderful melancholy about growing up and facing down all sorts of barriers — emotional, sexual, and professional. It’s nominally aimed at the teen and pre-teen crowd, but just like BBC Television’s The Sarah Jane Adventures, it has a maturity and a depth that impacts all ages. The best word to describe it is…ENRAPTURING (even after multiple readings…which is always a good sign).
In short, The Young City is a book you need to get your hands on…and that’s NOT a gentle suggestion. ;-)
