Member Review

Tadpole Summer
By Catherine Bruton
Published by Nosy Crow Ltd

Catherine Bruton has done it again! Author of No Ballet Shoes in Syria, has written another heartfelt story full of family love and loss, when healing and hope are chased.

Frog’s younger brother Tad is unwell. He has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (called SMA-PME for short) but together they have made life easier. They share a room, and a passion for wildlife and nature and do everything together. Because all Frog wants is for Tad to be happy. That’s what siblings do right?

But when Tad is taken into hospital, Frog starts camping in the garden.
Nothing is the same without Tad - their bedroom feels empty, the garden misses Tad and her life changes forever. And Frog feels lost. Only planning to camp while Tad is in hospital, Frog’s tent and her garden becomes her haven, her favourite space - where nature listens to her thoughts, her worries and her fears. She is a young girl in a very sad and often dark place, trying to be strong and her best for everyone.

When Tad comes home, amongst the chaos of medical equipment Frog throws herself into organising a sponsored camp out for charity. HopingTad can join in the fun and their summer will be complete.
But as Tad's condition worsens, Frog needs to face the truth.

A beautifully written story that entwines the lifecycle of tadpoles with the path of life for those families experiencing illness and loss. A hard read at times that would need consideration and support if shared with a younger, less experienced audience.
But for those who have first hand knowledge of living with illness and loss, Catherine Bruton has recognised them and given them a voice.

Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
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