The narrative of this poetic novel flows with lyrical ease, as Billie's golden childhood is mixed with shadows and pain. Perfect for readers of exactly the age of Billie, entering her teens, who will see themselves reflected in her -- Jamila Gavin, author of Coram Boy Pearl Beach is a delightful coming-of-age verse novel, pitched perfectly for pre-teens. Beth Steiner's poignant debut explores a painful cusp-of-womanhood summer in all its complexity: who is Billie supposed to be, now she's not a girl anymore? The relationship between young Billie, her friends and her holocaust-survivor great aunt are tenderly and sensitively painted. It's a warm story, with layers of emotion under the carefully-chosen words -- Tia Fisher, author of Crossing the Line A stunning book that perfectly interweaves poetry and history. Steiner has created something wonderful, a book that reaches into the past and reminds the reader that the pains of growing up are universal -- Gráinne OBrien, author of Solo Lyrical and poignant, Beth Steiner's coming-of-age novel perfectly captures the pain and complexity of growing up. I absolutely loved it! -- Cathy Faulkner, author of Digging for Victory A poignant and uplifting novel * katys_book_shelf *
