
Recommended by: Bob Cox/@openingdoors.bsky..org
Author: Susan Hill
Form and genre: Prose
Length: 162 pages (Novella)
Brief synopsis: Colin. May. Frank. Berenice. The Prime children grew up in a bleak country farmhouse called The Beacon. Colin and Berenice married locally. May went to university in London, but came home within a year and never left again. Only Frank, quiet, watchful Frank, got away. He left for Fleet Street and a career in journalism but its the publication of a book about his childhood that brings the fame and money he craves – and tears his family apart.
Age recommendation: Y9+
Trigger Warnings: There is psychological distress described in a family context.
Notable reasons for recommending: Secondary teachers might enjoy using this book set on an isolated farm in the North. . It’s a novella with a sweeping time scale and points of view from members of the Prime family change. How do we locate the truth? The plot moved on too – it’s not just atmospheric and not just about life on a farm. It could be an excellent read-aloud.
Other Comments: I wonder if it could be a stepping stone text towards ‘Wuthering Heights’ or anything with complex narrative techniques.
It’s quick to read so teachers can check if it suits their needs.