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Review:

My life and other catastrophes by Rowena Mohr


cover image Allen and Unwin, 2008 (series: Girlfriend Fiction)
(Age 11-14) Poor old Erin Costello, not only does she have to keep a diary, a written record to improve her expression, for English, but her parents have split up, and mum's new boyfriend, Creepazoid, has moved in, almost. Through the long diary entries, we see life totally from Erin's self absorbed perception. As she toys with the idea that Creepazoid is not all he seems, and she has to put up with him not only at home but at school, where he is the PE teacher, she also has conflicts with her best friend, Rami, an environmentalist who is trying vainly to get Erin more aware.

From one episode to another, the diary entries build the tension as the reader can see where it is headed, although Erin cannot. A very funny look at a self absorbed year 10 student, trying to be part of the play at school, watching her mum's boyfriend, and taking time off school the better to investigate him, this book will have broad appeal to girls in upper primary and lower secondary school.
Fran Knight
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