Not Like Georgie

The Sunday Age

Sunday December 7, 2008

Frances Atkinson

NOT LIKE GEORGIE

Scott Hatcher, ills., Heather Potter and Mark Jackson

Walker Books $27.95

Illustrated in glowing watercolour by Melbourne pair Heather Potter and Mark Jackson, this is a problem that every child faces at one time or another: who will be at my birthday? The nameless narrator, a tow-haired, blue-eyed boy with grazed shins, ticks off the names of kids who won't be attending his party. Marc isn't coming because his mum is over parties and resents buying presents every week. Sacha and Rachel are going to the movies. Alisha's guinea pig ate her invitation. "Or something like that." Not Like Georgie has charm to spare in its vivid depiction of the small suburban dramas that every child and parent will recognise. The well-paced narration balances impending disappointments and hopes. And, ultimately, hope is well placed in this story about the value of true friends.

© 2008 The Sunday Age

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