Fall in love with this heart-wrenching underdog story about grief, friendship and sticking up for yourself
Rae is ten years old, and she's tough. She's had to be- life with her mother has taught her the world is not her friend. Now suddenly her mum is gone and Rae is alone, except for her dog Splinter.
Rae can do a lot of things pretty well for a kid. She can take care of herself and Splints, stay under the radar at school and keep the front yard neat enough that the neighbours won't get curious. But she is gnawed at by fear and sadness; haunted by the shadow of a terrible secret.
Lettie, who lives next door, might know more about Rae than she lets on. But she has her own reasons for keeping the world at arm's length. When Rae finds out what they are, it seems like she and Lettie could help each other.
But how long can a friendship last when it's based on secrets?
Tender, funny, heartbreaking-A Million Things is a story of grief and resilience, told with eloquent simplicity. In brave, spiky Rae, Emily Spurr has created a character you will never forget.
About the Author
Born in Tasmania, Emily lives in Melbourne with her partner, their twin sons and a deaf, geriatric cat. Shortlisted for the prestigious Victorian Premier's Unpublished Manuscript Prize,
Industry Reviews
‘A powerful and challenging read from a new writer to watch.’
Big Issue
A remarkable book: beautifully written, tender, loving, humorous; heart-breaking, but all those other things as well—which is what we all love to read in the best of fiction.’
RN Bookshelf
‘Beautifully written, equally heartwarming and heart-wrenching novel about family, friendship, love and resilience…An absorbing, wonderful read that showcases the importance of having even one special person to turn to and unconditional love. Keep the tissues close by.’
Herald Sun
'...Spurr tells a tale of grief and resilience with refreshing simplicity.’
Age/SMH
'Spurr delivers a haunting account of a young girl grappling with abandonment in this excellent debut…Through Rae’s devastating yet hopeful interior dialogue, Spurr delicately illustrates the complexity of loss and isolation. Fans of Liane Moriarty should take a look.’’
Publishers Weekly