The Book of Guilt by Catherine Chidgey This story follows a mix of different characters – Vincent, Lawrence and William, triplets who are the last remaining orphan residents of the New Forest Home in Hampshire. Nancy, a thirteen-year-old girl who lives a secluded life with her overprotective parents a few towns over who just wants a friend. And the Ministry of Loneliness – striving for recognition and praise from the Prime Minister. Everything is recorded about these triplets in the home, from their dreams to their misbehaviours by their three mothers: Mother Morning, Mother Afternoon and Mother Evening, and they must take medicine every day to stop the ‘bug’. Nancy is questioning why she must be confined to her home and longs for freedom but never seems to get it. Set in 1979 England, in a world where nobody won WWII, it intertwines a different version of history as we know it, along with a sinister and dark plot. Nancy’s life and the lives of the triplets intersect, which forces the children to unite and the Minister to make some hard decisions. This is the first book I have read by Catherine Chidgey and DAMN! There were moments I actually physically gasped out loud, much to the annoyance of the person I was with – hah! Thrilling and enthralling, this book left me feeling angry, sad and happy all at once! Highly recommended! Review by Rebecca ~ Library Assistant |