Grace Williams Says It Loud by Emma Henderson.

Grace Williams Says it Loud by Emma Henderson. 

(Sceptre, March 2011.)

Review by Laura Parish.

Grace Williams Says It Loud tells the story of Grace, who, when the doctors tell her parents that nothing else can be done for her, is sent to The Briar Mental Institute. Seen by the doctors as nothing more than an object, on her first day, at aged eleven, Grace meets Daniel who is a fellow patient. Daniel befriends Grace. He sees beyond the disabilities. He sees someone to be friends with, to share secrets with and someone to love.

Novel Kicks verdict:  

This was a worthwhile read that stays with you past the last page. It did take me a while to settle into this book. At the beginning and through the first few pages, I wasn’t sure where it was going, whether I was going to like it and I nearly didn’t stick with it. This wasn’t due to a weak plot but because it was a very uncomfortable, honest story and the realistic setting helps the plot along nicely. I’m pleased I did stick with it.

I gained empathy with the patients of The Briar and warmth for Daniel as he quickly befriends Grace. Even though I’ve now finished reading this book, I’m still thinking about it. I recommend this book and I understand why it received it’s Orange Prize nomination.

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by

Laura

I'm Laura. I started Novel Kicks back in 2009 as I wanted a place to discuss books and writing - two loves of my life. As someone who has anxiety, these two things give me, and I am sure countless others, a much needed escape.
There is a monthly book club, writing exercises, prompts, reviews, author interviews, competitions and guest posts. I cover many genres and I hope there is something for everyone.
I grew up by the sea in Dorset and currently live in Poole with my husband, Chris and three cats. I love writing and have a BA (Hons) in Creative Writing from Falmouth University. I am writing my first book. If only I could stop pressing delete. Chris has threatened to stop it from working. Haha.
I have always loved creative writing since I was in first school and would very much like to meet my teacher, Miss Sayers, to say thank you for all the encouragement she gave me then.
When not writing, I love reading, cats, Disney, singing (I can't sing but this doesn't stop me,) and falling into a good TV show or film. If I could step into any fictional world, it would be amongst the characters in ABC's Once Upon a Time.
I love reading many genres and discovering new authors.