Books

The Ethan I Was Before

Ali Standish, Author

Paperback

Imprint: Orchard Books

Publication date: June 29, 2017

Category: Family & home stories (Children's / Teenage)

ISBN: 9781408342923

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My dare. My friend. My fault.

Uplifting and unpredictable, this poignant debut middle-grade novel is a classic in the making. Perfect for fans of Wonder and A Boy Called Hope.

Ethan had been many things. He was always ready for adventure and always willing to accept a dare, especially from his best friend, Kacey. But that was before. Before the accident that took Kacey from him. Before his family moved from the city he loves to a tiny town in the middle of nowhere.

Ethan’s new home feels like the place for second chances. It’s also home to Coralee, a girl with a big personality and even bigger stories. Coralee may be just the friend Ethan needs, except Ethan isn’t the only one with secrets. Coralee’s are catching up with her, and what she’s hiding might be putting both their lives at risk.

The Ethan I Was Before is a story of friendship, wonder, adventure and ultimately of hope.

Reviews

Readers will be riveted

Publishers Weekly, starred review

This well-executed, first-person narrative succeeds largely dude to Standish's ability to give Ethan a vibrant presence and a voice that readers of all ages can identify with. Secondary characters, whom we see entirely from his perspective, are real and compelling. It challenges inpsires and entertains, with a satisfying, nail-biting ending.

The School Librarian

An emotionally powerful story... wonderful characterisation and a strong sense of place are just part of what makes this book feel like a future classic.

Book Trust

Breathtakingly tender and poignant throughout... this is a book that will resonate with readers of any age.

The School Librarian

The emotional heart of the book is lovely.

Book Bag

Ali Standish

Ali Standish, author of the critically acclaimed The Ethan I Was Before, split her time growing up between North Carolina and several imaginary worlds. The only award she ever won in school was for messiest desk, but that didn’t stop her from going on to get degrees from Pomona College, Hollins University and the University of Cambridge. She still spends most of her time in her imagination, but you might just spot her walking her two rescue dogs with her Finnish husband around her neighbourhood in North Carolina. You can visit her online at www.alistandish.com.