Everything is Beautiful and Everything Hurts
Shapiro, Josie
Mickey Bloom: five foot tall, dyslexic, and bullied at school. Mickey knows she's nothing special. Until one day, she discovers running.
Mickey's new-found talent makes her realise she's everything she thought she wasn't - powerful, strong and special. But her success comes at a cost, and the relentless training and pressure to win leaves Mickey broken, her dream in tatters.
Years later, when Mickey is working in a dead-end job with a drop-kick boyfriend, her mother becomes seriously ill. After nursing her, Mickey realises the only way she can overcome her grief - and find herself - is to run again.
A chance encounter with a stranger sees Mickey re-ignite her dreams. The two women form an unbreakable bond, as Mickey is shown what it means to run in the right direction. [Taken from the book cover, Allen & Unwin]
Comments from BDS Reviewers
"This is the author's first novel. I am definitely going to watch other things she writes; this is a very accomplished effort."
"Excellent writing. Such good words to tell this story - sparse but intelligent prose."
"The descriptions of going running were mesmerising, such an emotional impact and what a great escape when your life is going wrong."
"This is an easy read and the story is so good I finished it in a fairly short time."
"The structure of the book is interesting and keeps the reader engaged."
"Excellent characters. Moving depiction of how badly a son or daughter will crave the love of a parent."
285
2023