A short, seemingly simple, yet complex and rather wonderful novel about a young boy coming to terms with life, death, and everything in-between. Eleven year old Michael believes that a murder has taken place, and he tells his own story. The first sentence sets the scene with dramatic intensity, and left me with the hint of raised eyebrows, the possibility of a smirk.
The tale begins the day before the murder, and background information is gradually filled in, allowing the connection to Michael to grow, to be nurtured. Maria Donovan explores sorrow, confusion, anger, friendship and love, all from the viewpoint of an eleven year old, with such thoughtfulness and compassion.
I loved getting to know Michael and his companions, he entered my heart, he made me smile, and occasionally wince. ‘The Chicken Soup Murder’ is a thought provoking, yet gentle heartfelt hug of a tale, and a very lovely read indeed.
Explore our '80+ Books That Deliver a Hug' listicle for more feel-good or uplifting books.
Michael’s happy early life in a small seaside town – a cosy world of cricket and football, experiences shared with his best friend Janey and her family – is disrupted by the arrival of a bully, and blasted by visitations from Death: the biggest bully of them all. Within Michael’s own past are unanswered questions: why does he live with his grandmother? Are his parents really in prison?
| Primary Genre | Crime and Mystery |
| Other Genres: | |
| Recommendations: |
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Michael’s happy early life in a small seaside town – a cosy world of cricket and football, experiences shared with his best friend Janey and her family – is disrupted by the arrival of a bully, and blasted by visitations from Death: the biggest bully of them all. Within Michael’s own past are unanswered questions: why does he live with his grandmother?
The Chicken Soup Murder features in the following genres: Crime and Mystery, eBooks of the Month, Family Drama, General Fiction, Fiction, Recommendations
Paperback. £8.99, down from the £9.99 cover price. Not Available.
The Chicken Soup Murder was written by Maria Donovan and published by Seren an imprint of Poetry Wales Press
The Chicken Soup Murder has 256 pages
£8.99, reduced from £9.99. Not Available.
