Guilt, friendship and starting over - thought-provoking story for KS2/KS3

Ethan and his family have moved in with his grandfather... we know he's had some sort of trauma and they are trying for a new start. His older brother resents Ethan for this, and Ethan evidently feels guilty about what happened - it involved his best friend Kacey, we learn. Just what happened? And can Ethan move on with his life, make new friends?

We see the Ethan who existed before the incident - a happy young man, with a best friend he adored. Now he does not want to get close to anyone new. Of course, he does find a new friend, whom he tries not to see as a replacement for Kacey, but he seems to warm to her more quickly that I would have expected for someone so traumatised.

The story works best as a YA guide to opening up a story, revealing the past and giving facts to the reader, this is done really well, with a 'twist' of sorts as the truth of Ethan's past is revealed. I also thought the relationship with Ethan's brother is nicely done, as they have a moving scene of opening up.

As we often see, Ethan's new friend Coralee is a bit of a dark horse herself, with her own family secrets. There is a sweet little storm-set sub-plot involving red wolves that is quite tender and adds a little excitement to the plot

In a story of hidden truths and friendship, there are some very moving moments, and it's a story with a lot to think about.

The book includes information about red wolves and a thorough set of questions for reading groups, great for library/school book clubs.

With thanks to Netgalley for the advance e-copy, sent for review purposes.

A novel about loss and moving on. Parallel stories of Ethan losing his best friend and his Grandad losing his. Ethan's parents mistakenly try to shield him to protect I'm, but make matters worse. Grandad knows we are all stronger than we think, although he obviously doesn'tthink itapplies to himself. There is more than one strong, loyal friendship in this book which fills the reader with admiration for that love.

This book made me ugly cry not once but several times. It's a beautifully told story of grief, love and acceptance. Perfect for Middle Grade readers that like books that move them and give them 'all the feels'. Main character 12 year old Ethan is just lovely and the use of first person really tugs at the heartstrings and encourages empathy.

The Ethan I Was Before by Ali Standish

Publication Date: 29th June 2017

Ethan was game for anything. With Kacey by his side, there was no challenge too big, no dare they wouldn't take on. And then, his dare killed her. The Ethan he was before was gone, left behind in Boston, as his family move to the tiny sea side town to live with Grandpa Ike. A chance for Ethan to start again.

When Coralee returns to Palm Knot, she's larger than life and twice as loud, and Ethan finds himself making a new friend, but he still can't let go of his past. As the two become embroiled in a mystery neither understand, they both need to learn to trust in themselves and each other, if the past isn’t to repeat itself…

A moving tale of friendships lost and found, of blame, grief, acceptance and hope. The effects on the whole family are explored with delicacy, from Mum’s constant watchfulness, to Robbie’s anger, and I loved watching Ethan’s relationship with Grandpa Ike develop. Friendships and families require trust, respect, empathy and compassion. Ali Standish has packed them all into a beautiful story exploring a difficult topic.

Great for fans of Lara Williamson, Tom Avery, and Jo Cotterill.

Ebook proof courtesy of Hatchett Children’s Group via Netgalley.

A heart-warming read that I won't hesitate to recommend to younger readers. Well-written characters, a credible story and thought-provoking.