My Review: This is a special, complex book that is one of those titles that could be enjoyed by adults and teens alike. I read it in one sitting and was in tears in parts, and at other times hanging on every word to see what was going to happen next to Ava and her fabulous Nan. One of the strong themes that runs throughout this supernatural tale of the importance of memory, storytelling and generational love is nihilism. How do you live in the face of suffering and loss, and what is life for? As such it’s a more emotionally mature read than most teen supernatural titles and more powerful because of it. The writing is beautiful and the story clearly comes from a place of deep contemplation.

Suggested For: confident and mature readers 12+ wanting something emotionally complex and thought-provoking as well as tense & supernatural

If You Like This You Might Enjoy: The Stickleback Catchers by Lisette Auton (aimed at a slightly younger readership but explores dementia in a magic-realist/urban fantasy setting), Kit’s Wilderness by David Almond, Red Shift by Alan Garner

Blurb: Unsure where she fits in at her new school and reeling from the unexpected death of her dad, Ava finds herself drawn to Dustin, a troubled older boy who performs rituals in the woods to communicate with the crows, messengers between this world and the afterlife. When the crows offer to return her beloved nan’s memories, Ava must decide whether she will pay their price and exchange a soul for a soul.

A moving sparely told story of grief, dementia and loss, for young and old adults alike.

Thanks to Guppy Books for the review copy.