When The Storm Comes

Polly Yo-Hen has written an empathetic adventure of four students who come together in an explosive adventure. At first, Amaryllis (Mali) struggles to find his place and his people at school, but along comes the new boy, Shiyoon, who helps him to realise how special friendship can be. Though this is short-lived when Shiyoon has to leave the school, Amaryllis is left alone again. Put together in a book club by Ms Devine, who seems to have on purpose chosen these pupils, they are put into a disastrous situation where they have to overcome their differences and own personal challenges to work together to get themselves and others to safety.

This story really does remind you about the importance of not judging people on first impressions and that there is good in everyone. There is a subtle mention of same-sex marriage, and it touches upon the subject of climate change. The concluding sentence stresses how the characters could now be unafraid, unapologetic and undaunted to stand up for change. How we all wish we could be a little braver and heed these words. A gripping story that values trust, friendship, resilience and strength.