Jess Aarons is a kid in the 70s living in a small rural farming community whose life is turned upside-down by the appearance of Leslie Burke, a girl whose family has relocated to get away from city living. They become friends, establishing a fantasy kingdom in the nearby woods.
I read this at school, I think in Year 7 or Year 8, and I loved it. I’ve read it several times as an adult wondering if it would hold up and every time it has. Yes, it’s dated and there are some flaws. Some parts make me cringe, but overall it holds such a special place in my heart. I am always trying to reduce the number of books in my house, giving away books to friends or donating them to libraries or op shops, and when I read this, it went onto my pile of books to donate. But very quickly, it came back off it. I will read this again. I will love it again. It’s inevitable.
ireckonthat 