The Most Famous Boy in Town (Bel Schenk, Espresso)

Bel Schenk’s latest work and her fourth publication, The Most Famous Boy in Town, delves into the intricate relationship dynamics in Charlotte Bay, a coastal community that unravels in the face of rape allegations against their star footballer. Through a shifting narrative perspective, Schenk offers readers a panorama of the event and, most significantly, the aftermath that ensues. The audience follows Julia, a successful journalist struggling to balance her career and relationships. Amidst the gentrification of his hometown, Dave is determined to keep his late father’s cinema open. Lucas prepares to be drafted in the next football season, and there is no way he can fail, or so he thinks. Ryan grapples with the expectations of masculinity within his brother’s shadow. Finally, Hannah wrestles with the fallout from a party on the beach and the lack of anonymity in a small town. The Most Famous Boy in Town stands out for its refreshing characters, whose complexities are the driving force of the storyline. The writing style is engaging and concise, and the honest tone makes for an easy and enjoyable reading experience. While the conclusion feels a little sudden, with a few character arcs left unresolved, it still successfully subverts expectations. This novella emerges as an essential read for young adults aged 17+ and adults alike, tackling heavy themes with nuance and empathy. It is a powerful and important depiction of the widespread impacts of sexual assault.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Alexandra Ashburner-Hill is a creative writing graduate. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

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