Counting Stars Book

David Almond's Counting Stars is a collection of short stories that are as breathtaking as his novels, and which, more importantly give Almond fans an insight into the author and his childhood.He is a wonderful writer whose hugely popular and critically acclaimed work, in the forms of Skellig, Kit's Wilderness and Heaven Eyes, has have made him a firm favourite among young readers, teachers and parents. From the opening story, "The Middle of the World", the reader is taken right into the heart of a small boy growing up in a world where love is plentiful when times are tough, where family means everything and where life and death merge to create something that is ultimately challenging and beautiful. Anyone who has read Almond's novels will instantly identify the core of his ideas. In particular the brief but beautiful "The Angel of Chilside Road" conjures up the stunning images that made the award-winning Skellig so unforgettable. In Counting Stars we learn more about the author, and are privileged to be allowed to share childhood memories that are funny, moving and, most importantly, touched with an unforgettable humanity which will strike a chord with any reader. Don't expect an easy read--some of these stories are challenging, but certainly worth the effort. (Age 11 and over) --Susan Harrison Read More