A Game of Keeps (Dianne Bates, Celapene Press)

In A Game Of Keeps, Dianne Bates introduces us to Ashley, a young girl who lives a small, unkempt flat with her mum Jules and their guinea pig Froggie. Froggie is Ashley’s only company when Jules disappears on mysterious outings and later returns home smelling of alcohol. At these times, Ashley becomes an adult, taking charge and tucking a blanket around her mother on the couch. When a caring neighbour reports Jules to social services, Ashley begins visiting foster carers Daisy and Will, who welcome her into their calm and comfortable life. This book, which is aimed at children around ten years old, tackles some confronting issues. Bates writes with empathy for her characters, and makes the topic of foster care seem less frightening. However, issues in the book are sometimes too simplified, which leaves the reader feeling uninformed about the details of the characters’ lives. Young readers will benefit, though, from exploring a less comfortable lifestyle, which some children face every day.

Sarah Tanner is a freelance writer and editor, and former bookseller

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Category: Reviews