Kenna is living with her uncle and his family after her mother, Ava, died in a bushfire. Kenna is living in the town her mother grew up in and the house that holds her long-lost memories.

One night Kenna finds the general store on fire and, standing nearby, watching the flames, is a boy, Noah. She sees him holding a can of petrol and, in a flash, she decides to snatch his bag. It’s Noah’s bag and he needs it back. But little does Kenna know that Noah has something else she needs. He and his mother might hold some of the keys to her mother’s past, secrets and memories.

As Kenna uncovers more about her mother, her family and her past, Noah grapples with his own family, situation and emotions. His mother struggles with mental illness and it’s up to Noah to keep her safe and well. Kenna’s mother’s diaries are interspersed throughout, giving us insight into Ava, but also deepening the mystery.

Dealing with the trauma of fires and small-town challenges Growing Up in Flames certainly holds an Australian flavour. It is a murky and complicated novel. I was often frustrated by the characters, wanting them to do better and be better but, as with teenagers, it takes time to figure things out. Despite this, Growing Up in Flames is a suspenseful and gripping read. I certainly wanted to know how it ended.

Reviewed by Amber Sawyer
Age Guide 14+