gripping

we listened to this on holiday journeys and ended up having to transfer the ipod into the flat and listen to the rest as the children were so engrossed - thank you!

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2 people found this helpful

Poignant & engaging story

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. Very well written and extremely well narrated by David Tenant. Would definitely recommend it.

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1 person found this helpful

Heartbreaking & beautiful

This is beautifully narrated by David Tennant, a heartwarming, heartbreaking story told from 10 year old Jamie's perspective. I laughed and oh, how I cried but couldn't decide if this book is for adults or children. Ultimately, though, I don't care as 59 year old me enjoyed reading it & so did 10 year old me.

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4 out of 5 tear jerker

it was a quick read / listen and a good tear jerker relatable and heartwarming also

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An uplifting simple story of family love

I loved this story of an everyday life of an ordinary family, who were recovering together from a death and a divorce, and the trials they all go through so that they eventually come to terms with their losses and make the most of what they have. I guess there were some unbelievable bits - where did Jas the sister get her money to keep buying hair dye and nail polish and presents for her little brother? But it was an easy to listen to story which at times made me smile and from time to time shed a little tear.

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Great story, with a fantastic narrator

I loved this story. Yes the parents were selfish and neglected their kids, and my heart broke for poor Jamie and Jas who each dealt with grief in their own ways. Having the story told by Jamie with a 10 year olds view of things, hopes, arguments , racism, bullying was equally heartbreaking and the author dies this brilliantly. David Tennant’s narration was perfect. Highly recommended

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laughed and cried all the way through it

from the first 10 mins i was hooked. i loved this book from start to finish, it had me laughing out loud and sobbing at some parts, david tennants voice was just right too. although it was easy listening, and nothing earth shattering in the literary world, at the end it really had me thinking about grief and still brings a tear to my eye when i tell friends about it. its simply a lovely book to read or listen too.

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Highly recommended!!

Would you listen to My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece again? Why?

I would certainly listen to it again, as it is so well written and the characters are really warming. I missed them when I finished the story. Also love listening to David Tennant!

What does David Tennant bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you had only read the book?

David's tone of voice and speed of reading shows the dramatic points and the sad points, as well as the sound of the taunting by the bullies.

Did you have an emotional reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

There were lots of subtle comments which made me laugh out loud. But the ending was very emotional and made me cry.

Any additional comments?

I wish I could write as well as Annabel Pitcher!

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I cried a lot!

I thought this book was meant for children, but I was bawling by the end of it. David Tennant's performance was superb.

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Brilliant

Bought this to listen to with my daughter, we both really enjoyed and were completely pulled into the story. Some sensitive themes written and narrated well.
Good story, well written and well read.

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