The Things We Promise
Publishing Details
The Things We Promise
By (Author) J. C. Burke
A&U Children's
A&U Children
22nd February 2017
Australia
Classifications
Young Adult
Fiction
823.92
Long-listed for CBCA Book of the Year 2018 (Australia)
Physical Properties
384
Width 128mm, Height 198mm
436g
Description
There are two things you need to know about me. The first is that I remember life by what I was wearing. The second is that I think too much.
It's the early 1990s and all Gemma can think about is looking perfect for her first school formal. Gemma's brother Billy - New York's up and coming hair and make-up artist - has made her the ultimate promise: he's returning home especially to 'create magic' on her and two friends for their end-of-year formal. Gemma's best friend, Andrea, is convinced it'll be their moment to shine; Gemma hopes it's the night Ralph will finally notice her.
But when Billy arrives home from New York, Gemma's life becomes complicated. Her family's been keeping secrets; friendships are forged and broken; and suddenly the length of her formal dress is the least of her worries.
Set in a time of uncertainty and fear, The Things We Promise is a beautifully told novel that sings with emotion, humour and heartbreak.
Reviews
"a good reminder for teens who came of age after figures like Arthur Ashe and Freddie Mercury brought [AIDS] out of the shadows." --Booklist Online
"Filled with strong, vibrant characters, this novel is both timeless and timely. Loved it." --Melina Marchetta, author, Jellicoe Road
"A solemn slice of life harmonizing beauty, tragedy, ignorance, sentiment, and the profound continued importance of AIDS awareness and education." --Kirkus Reviews
Author Bio
J.C. Burke has published a number of acclaimed books for teenagers and young adults, including CBCA Notable Books White Lies and The Red Cardigan, Aurealis Awards finalist Nine Letters Long, The Story of Tom Brennan, Faking Sweet, Starfish Sisters, Ocean Pearl, Pig Boy and Pretty Girl. The Story of Tom Brennan won the 2006 CBCA Book of the Year, Older Readers and the 2006 Australian Family Therapists Award for Children's Literature and it is currently on the NSW HSC syllabus list. Pig Boy won the Ned Kelly Award for Best Crime Fiction in 2012.
