Not As We Know It
Binding: Paperback
Imprint: Andersen Press
Age 9+
Personal & Social Issues: Death & Bereavement Fantasy & Magical Realism
Jamie and Ned are twins. They do everything together: riding their bikes, beachcombing outside their house, watching their favourite episodes of Star Trek.
But Ned is sick, and one day, he may leave Jamie behind.
When they discover a strange creature on the beach, Ned wants one more adventure and decides to keep him secretly in their garage. But Jamie begins to hope that the creature might bring some miracle, and stop his brother from going where he can no longer follow . . .
Creators
Tom Avery was born and raised in London in a very large, very loud family, descendants of the notorious pirate Henry Avery. He trained as a teacher and has worked with children in inner city schools in London and Birmingham. Tom lives in Amsterdam with his wife and two sons.
Reviews
Reminiscent of David Almond at his finest.
Metro
Avery really excels in this quiet depiction of fraternal love and devotion. The portrait of illness is delivered subtly and sensitively. A completely immersive and magical experience.
We Love This Book
Moving, packed with personality and fun references to its 80s setting. Enchanting and special.
Booktrust
Absolutely spell-binding. Avery’s storytelling has an effortless quality to it. Heartbreakingly beautiful.
Moontrug Blog
A powerful mix of the retelling of old stories and myths and references to the newer folklore wrought by science fiction film and television
CLPE
Beautifully told and beautifully illustrated too.
Andrea Reece, Lovereading
A moving fable about love and loss.
WRD Magazine
I loved every second of it and couldn’t put it down once I had started it.
Charlotte, age 9 for lovereading.co.uk
Although it deals with a family haunted by a terminal illness it is inspiring and not at all depressing. Strongly recommended.
The School Librarian