My Family and Other Natural Disasters

Patrick Connolly's parents have separated and he feels unable to talk to them about their problems - or his. I read this marvellous book in one sitting and was entranced both by the format - part autobiography, part first-person narrative, part written correspondence - and the content. There are many areas for thought and discussion woven through the narrative which shows adults as the very fallible people they really are. The most rewarding part of the story is Patrick's Interaction with his Irish grandparents and relatives. This novel will, sadly, raise familiar issues with many children but its sharp observation, sympathy and refusal to slide into stereotype or cliche make it one of the best I've read in recent times.