Here Upon The Tide - Blair McMillan
Like the review below, I too was up until the early hours finishing this YA novel, that will appeal to all readers. Very quickly I was totally invested with the characters and needed to know what happened next. Just loved this book - highly recommend. Sara
Here Upon the Tide is a stunning debut novel about two grieving teenagers who find new ways to be happy in the most unlikely of places.
When Amir’s city in Syria is bombed as civil war erupts, his father makes a fateful decision.
Amir soon finds himself on a perilous journey by land and sea, with little hope of reaching his destination.
Milly is still reeling from the aftermath of earthquakes in her home city of Christchurch.
Her only reprieve is the sea, surfing in Sumner and paddleboarding to her refuge at Boulder Bay. Out on the water one morning she sees something that forces her to risk her life for a complete stranger.
NZ Booklovers Review - Rebekah Lyell:
The book is told through the teens, with each chapter alternating between the two. While sometimes this format can be hard to follow in other books, that isn't the case here. Both Amir and Milly are well-developed, unique characters, each with a strong voice. They have their flaws and aren't afraid to acknowledge them, which is a refreshing change.
Author Blair McMillan touches on several important themes - the plight of refugees, the impact of natural disasters, mental health and the importance of human connection. He imparts important lessons in a simple yet heartfelt way, encouraging and challenging readers to examine their own beliefs and thoughts. They are some heavy topics, but McMillan manages to write openly about the realities without weighing the story down. The spark of hope and growth threaded through Milly and Amir's stories helps with this.
McMillan sets a cracking pace with the story, forever urging the reader to continue. I became so wrapped up in the story, eager to find out what would happen to both characters; it was a one-sitting reading session until the early hours of the morning.
Here Upon The Tide is a gripping read that will stick with readers for a long time.
