This is one of my favorite books of all time. It is an honest, loving book about recovery and the strong bonds of parent-child love. Emerging adulthood, sexuality, friendship, and loss, are all handled maturely and bluntly. A definite must read for teens and adults.

This was the class book in year 5, so we were 9 to 10 years old. I was 9 and adored it, I still do at 18. The physical abuse Will suffers only serves to make it a more moving and powerful novel, because of the healing kindness from Little Weirwold and Tom Oakley. I take issue with the message that Carrie is encouraged to be a wife and mother rather than go to school. That's one character's view, but it's not the view of the author. Will, the protagonist, supports Carrie in her aspirations, as does Carrie's father. Carrie is ultimately accepted by the grammar school girls too. My Church of England primary school is to be admired for challenging its students with some difficult issues, but ultimately rewarding them with a moving and inspiring tale.