Ways to Die Right

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy. This book is in first person from Joel's perspective. Joel is a triplet and 15. His sister Holly died when she was 6 and his brother Harry is very outgoing. Joel has OCD and struggles with germs and over thinks things. His mother is dealing with cancer. He is doing a science project on eco funerals and how current practices are bad for the environment. He see so many unkempt graves and feels they are forgotten. He tends to obsess over this. Meanwhile his nemesis is planning to do a science project arguing against his project. This story deals with some tough and relevant issues and would be a good resource teaching teens to understand others. I could see sensitive teens struggling with some of the issues particularly if they have a family member fighting a life-threatening condition or have just lost someone. But for others it can be used as a good source of information. I could see it being a good book for a class or group to study with a teacher or adult to help with any issues it may bring up. I would recommend for year 10 up depending on reading age and maturity of the teen. (15 up)

It's been a long time since I have read something just for the pleasure of reading, but boy am I glad I chose this novella. Catriona has touched on so many unspoken topics among teens in this book, neuro-atypical teen life, how it can impact interactions with friends and families and also tackles death and burials, all in one short book! As I was reading I could visualise the teens I teach connecting to this text in so many beautiful subtle ways. I know that the book was originally written to bring awareness to neuro-atypical teens but I took more away from the characters views on death and burial. As someone who has experienced substantial family loss over the past 12mths it was a refreshing perspective that allowed me to gain some insight into what others might be thinking in times of tragic loss. I would honestly recommend this to teens that have lost love ones or need help to see a bigger picture related to death and burials. Catriona is clearly a very talented and attuned author that can cater to, and relate to the needs of her teen audience members. Outstanding novella.