Steal My Sunshine

2013

by Emily Gale

Steal My Sunshine is a poignant tale set against the backdrop of a sweltering Melbourne heatwave. The protagonist, Hannah, finds her family life warping into something unrecognizable, filled with fear and uncertainty. The story delves deep into Hannah's struggle to address the issues plaguing her family, a task that seems monumental for someone who feels invisible and powerless.

Hannah's journey for solace leads her to two people who appear to have a grasp on the true essence of life: her rebellious best friend, Chloe, and her unconventional grandmother, Essie. Hannah's faithfulness to both is put to the test as she grapples with her growing attraction to Chloe's older brother and a harrowing secret from Essie that casts a new light on the family's disarray.

Amidst the personal turmoil, Steal My Sunshine also uncovers a distressing chapter of Australia's historyβ€”the enforced adoptions that compelled 'wayward girls' and single mothers to relinquish their babies. This practice, sanctioned by churches and hospitals, continued for many years, and its devastating effects are only now being recognized.

With a narrative that intertwines Hannah's personal conflicts and the broader societal issues, the novel is a testament to resilience and self-belief in the face of adversity and historical injustice.

2.0 Stars
1 reader
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Review by fmbran
The idea behind it was really good, but it was poorly executed. I think this book would have benefited from better editing and also (Spoiler alert) the whole Sam and Chloe thing made no sense and neither did Evan and Hannah. We never really find out WHY she likes him or why he never calls her back. The pacing of the book felt off as well, for instance, the fact that the play seemed to be so relevant at the beginning and it only barely resurfaced at the very end. Even the reasons for Hannah's dad leaving were barely discussed. I think that by trying to tackle so many issues at once the story lost a bit of its momentum. The ending was a bit anti-climatic as well.
Likeless so far. Lead the way
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