by Boomert - Skating the Edge by Julia Lawrinson 08 Jan 2010

Set largely in the Bayview Terrace Adolescent Psychiatric Hospital and recounted by Caitlin, one of the young women committed there, these 364 pages hold few let-downs in characterisation, pace or plot. In searching for answers about a friend's suicide, Caitlin explores recent events `from the very start.' We see the effects on Caitlin and her friends of the staff's `innovative approach to mental health care,' learn why the teenagers are there to start with, and share the beginning of their lives after Bayview. This is an emotional story about friendship, empowerment and recovery as well as tough issues you'd expect in this setting, including abuse, deception, suicide and powerlessness. Language fits the realism, and occasional humour provides relief. We learn with Caitlin (although sometimes more quickly) to question what we see, and to seek behind the facade. The ambiguous layers to these distinct characters-teenage patients, staff and parents-become exposed. Appearances deceive. Ignorance-wilful or not-has consequences. Despite the author's disclaimer that this is fiction, there are autobiographical elements. These add to the novel's feel of emotional truth-or at least of truth-seeking-and recovery. Here's hoping this book's distributor doesn't let this strong novel languish. Recommended for the mature young adult market.

C. 2002 Thorpe-Bowker and contributors