‘It’s like nothing else…Even the air sounds different, because the snow crunches when you move. Sometimes it’s like being on ice-cream, all smooth. It’s like there’s a blanket on the air, making everything sound softer. And other times it’s like being on an ice-skating rink, only on a slope. And if it’s early and it’s been snowing…then it’s like floating on bubbles.’
Jamie has never been to the snow before, but when she’s finally invited to go and see it, she isn’t so sure. The person inviting her is Gemma Watten. Gemma is the quietest girl in her class, and Jamie doesn’t know her at all. What will they talk about? What if they don’t get along?
Snow Play is a delightful tale of friendship and fitting in, set against the backdrop of a day in the snow. Author Claire Saxby has worked hard to recreate the wonder and novelty of the snowfields for readers who may not have had the experience. At the same time, the story line is strong and avoids being predictable or preachy which could easily happen in a story of this length and with these themes.
Part of the Go Girl series, the sparkly cover is sure to attract young readers, but it is the story which will really draw them in.
Good stuff.
Snow Play, by Claire Saxby
Hardie Grant Egmont, 2007