Where We Belong (2013)

Angie is a fourteen-year-old girl who lives with her mum and her younger sister Sophie, who has a specific form of autism. Angie's mum is not the typical mothering type, and the three of them often find themselves without a home or a place to go to. When they move in with their Aunt Vi, something unexpected happens when Sophie develops a friendship with Rigby, the dog of Paul, the isolated and slightly grumpy neighbour. But then Paul decides to move away to the mountains for personal reasons, and Angie realises their life will go back to the way it was. Angie's mum is not ready to give up so easily and decides to follow Paul and Rigby, so Sophie can continue to be with the dog. Angie develops a close friendship with Paul, but will this time everything work out the way she wants, for both herself and her family, even when she decides to risk everything? This book managed to exceed all my expectations. The novel includes a cast of fascinating characters, such as teenager Angie who is trying to find her place in the world, her little sister Sophie who has autism and develops a simply wonderful relationship with Rigby the dog, and Paul, the neighbour who doesn't want to let anyone into his life but doesn't have a choice but to let both Sophie and Angie in. I quickly warmed to Angie, the main protagonist of the story; she's really grown-up for a 14-year-old and the role reversal between her and her mother was interesting to read, but heart-breaking at the same time. Next to the great character development, the story is written in a comfortable pace and the author has her own distinctive voice. Where We Belong is a novel about family, friendship and discovering yourself; touching, well-written and hopeful. (JoH)

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