This is the bittersweet story of Neef and Danny, two teens who find each other in a time of need. Told entirely through the eyes of Neef (Jennifer), and through two separate timelines, it is a heart- wrenching coming-of-age tale.
Neef is a child living in a housing estate in Leeds with her single mum, Chrissy. Chrissy meets a man who she is hoping can save them from their lives of poverty, so they move to a new town where Neef meets Danny. Their friendship and love develops as we watch the two grow into themselves.
In the second timeline, Neef is older and working at a café in London when she receives a visitor from her past. She must make the difficult decision to either delve back into her old life or leave it where it lies.
I found this novel gritty and raw, and some scenes quite difficult to read. There’s poverty, racism, sexual assault and drug use, so read with caution. Neef is a vulnerable young girl placed in an environment where seedy men prey on easy targets. It’s like watching a train crash about to happen and being powerless to stop it.
Although there’s not much happiness here, there is a small glimmer of hope. This is balanced by some great writing. I was wholly absorbed, and I’m glad to have read it.
If you have enjoyed books like Shuggie Bain, Juno Loves Legs, or Young Mungo, then prepare the tissues and grab yourself a copy of Wild Ground.
Reviewed by Sarah Kraus
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ABOUT THE AUTHOREmily Usher is an author and freelance writer, originally from West Yorkshire, and now based in South Australia.
Wild Ground was her debut novel.
In 2019, Emily took part in the Year of the Novel course at the Writers Centre NSW and was later mentored by Australian author Emily Maguire. The body of work she produced during this time would go on to become Wild Ground.
Emily’s freelance projects are mostly centred in the not-for profit space. She is the former Head of Communications for Australian cancer research charity, Cure Cancer, and has facilitated writing and drama workshops at prisons and children’s secure centres both in the UK and Australia. She is also an award-winning short story writer.
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