My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece New Award-winning

Jamie’s dead sister is nothing but ash, yet she rules his whole family. Is there life after loss? Please, is there? Five years ago, Jamie’s sister, Rose, was blown up by a terrorist bomb. It’s been five years of grief. Now Jamie, Dad and his teenage sister are moving to the Lake District for a fresh start. But things are just as bad as ever. Jasmine, who was Rose’s twin, has turned to piercings and punk hairstyles. Mum has run off with a man from her support group. But to ten-year-old Jamie, Rose is just a distant memory. He’s more interested in his cat and his Spider-Man T-shirt. What he wants is for Mum to come home, and for his family to start living again. Could a TV talent show make it happen?

• A witty and moving book that won the Branford Boase Award

• The debut of Annabel Pitcher, who also wrote Ketchup Clouds

• Shortlisted for the Red House Award and the Carnegie Medal

• A devastating look at violence, loss and moving beyond it

“This is a fine debut novel. Truthful, clear-eyed and wise.” Telegraph

“Heartbreaking and funny in near equal measure… This is a wonderful, touching story that never slips into worthiness.” Observer

*Please note this book contains mature content more suitable for older readers.