Sophie Someone by Hayley Long

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Hot Key Books, 2015. ISBN: 9781471404801
(Ages: 12+) Recommended. Within this heart-warming tale, Sophie tells her life story, in the only way she dares tell it: code language. Sophie's describes her early life, in which she moved with her mother from an unknown place to Brussels where the majority of the story takes place. She describes the way that her family settle into this new abode, and takes the reader into her school life where she meets her best friend, Comet, a character who makes a recurring appearance within the novel. Throughout the story, Comet and Sophie go on a few adventures, which guarantee a gripping tale, as well as explore the ins and outs of friendship, and that sometimes, there are things that are difficult to talk about, even to your best friend.
The relationships explored in the novel are compelling, each with its own unique and distinct lesson for the reader, and which are revealed at appropriate and respective points of the novel. The relationships that Sophie has with her family are relatable and truly express real family dynamics, as well as highlighting the importance of family.
The main themes within the novel are that of the importance of self-identity, trusting our moral compasses, being who we are despite the odds, realising that it's never too late to challenge ourselves and never giving up; lessons which are not only vital for personal growth and development, but also to ensure a memorable and inspiring novel.
From the beginning of the book, Sophie's unique writing style is demonstrated. She uses code words amongst regular language, in order to tell her story and although this may make for a challenge for younger audiences, the context of the words often allow for an easy translation.
Sophie Someone has vibrant, realistic characters that make for an engaging read, as well as an opportunity for the reader to unravel Sophie's story along with her. This novel was a truly beautiful read, in which I looked forward to reading every page, and helping Sophie uncover the secrets she was so desperate to learn. Sophie Someone is not a book that is easily forgotten.
Daniella Chiarolli (Student)

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