I received a DRC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Hideaway
by Pam Smy
Published by Pavilion Children's
on September 9, 2021
Genre: Middle Grade
Length: 248 pages
Ages: 8 - 12 years
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Synopsis:
A haunting illustrated novel from the author of the highly acclaimed Thornhill.
Told in two alternating narratives, The Hideaway tells the story of Billy McKenna, who runs away from home and takes refuge in an overgrown graveyard. The first narrative is told from his perspective, whereas the second thread tells of the situation at home and the police search for Billy. Covering themes of domestic violence, families, childhood, being separated and reunited, this is an important and beautifully illustrated book for middle grade readers right up to adults.
My Thoughts:
Young Billy McKenna is tired of the violence going on in his house and he knows it won't get any better, so he packs a bag and leaves. He has a place to stay in mind, somewhere almost no one will visit; an old, overgrown cemetery. His mother, in an alternating pov, is desperate for her son's return, and the community comes together to help return him to her.
I recently read Pam Smy's Thornhill and loved it. The Hideaway is quite similar in style, with haunting black & white illustrations mixed into the alternating POVs between a boy and his mother.
This definitely touches on some tough topics such as domestic abuse and abandonment but I love how Smy tackles these topics and turns this dark tale into something truly beautiful.
There's also a lovely paranormal twist at the end that makes this a good Spooky Season read!
Many thanks to Pavilion Children's for the chance to read this fantastic illustrated novel!
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