The Paperbark Tree Committee by Karys McEwen

Twelve-year-old Art and his younger brother Hilary are great friends, best friends. When they move to Melbourne from a small town in Queensland, things seem to be easy for Hilary, who is still in primary school, but Art struggles to fit in, and he's become a target for school bully Jack. His dad is too busy to give him much attention, but Art has his stepmum, Sally, who is always ready to listen.

Then there's the paperbark tree. Art and Hilary climb into its branches and hold a secret meeting whenever they need to sort things out. The only problem is Art's not sure he still wants to be part of the paperbark tree committee. He's getting older and he thinks he needs to solve his problems on his own. Art's instantly lovable and relatable, as is every other character in the book. Even his dad, who at times you may want to reach through the pages and give him a stern talking to. Each character is whole and real - they have flaws, make mistakes, and some can be quite terrible at times. But they are all lovable and relatable in some way. Each character is authentic and will nestle their way into your heart, whether you like them or not.

Author Karys McEwen navigates the joys and heartbreak of teenagehood - from fitting in and finding friends, about navigating families and siblings, to making mistakes and learning from them. The ending brought me to tears, in a good way.

The Paperbark Tree Committee is a warm, heartfelt story about growing up and the transition from childhood. It's a gentle book, with a big heart. 

Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell

Text Publishing