I really don’t know how to review August and Jones without going overboard with superlatives. I also wish I was reading it for the first time again – that is how much I loved it.

This beautiful story is about a friendship between two kids with opposite personalities who hit it off. Jones is sporty, outdoor-loving and gutsy. Her family has relocated from the freedom of a farm to a poky little city apartment. August is shy, bookish and fumbling around in a junior footy team coached by his sporty dad, while his older brother plays – and excels – at a higher level, much to his dad’s pride. He is assignedto be a buddy to Jones when she joins his class; it is a friendship that will reward them both. Then, sadly, Jones’ childhood cancer returns in her remaining eye and the two friends realise they need a bucket list.

Pip Harry balances the reality of illness and the joys and travails of being a child with a deft hand. She never overplays the emotional drama of illness and family rifts, but offsets them with the power of friendship, love and strength of character. Harry really portrays the vicissitudes of life with a bighearted sensitivity. August and Jones is perfect for readers ages 9+.

Alexa Dretzke is from Readings Hawthorn.