Our Review… Full disclosure – I love Toni Jordan’s writing and having seen her speak a few times, I really like her as a person too. So I knew I was going to like her latest novel, which she has described as her most personal yet. I know I won’t be the only one. Tenderfoot is an evocative coming-of-age story; a memoir in the same way Boy Swallows Universe is a memoir (so a story inspired by childhood) and there are actually many similarities – obviously the suburban Brisbane setting (the 1970s in this case) but also the authors’ incredible ability to evoke time and place and to transport the reader there whether it’s our experience or not. (It wasn’t mine but if you grew up in Brissie in the ‘70s this is even more a book for you). Andie is in Grade 6, currently one of the popular gang of girls (but you know how these things change) and determined to become a greyhound trainer. She adores her Dad, loves her dogs more than anything, has a complicated relationship with her Mum and has no idea about the big, wide world. But she’s about to find out. Toni has an uncanny ability to both see the world through the eyes of Andie the child, while also providing the perspective of the adult story writer. Tenderfoot is a beautiful story of resilience, navigating the challenges of growing up and the way we see the world differently once we’re through it. Told with plenty of nostalgia and humour, it’ll take you back to your own childhood – whether you remember those changing times with fondness, awkwardness or relief that it’s all over! Review by Andi @ Great Escape Books
