Nine Open Arms

We see many successful adult novels translated to English from the Dutch (a notable release of late being Herman Koch’s The Dinner). Nine Open Arms is welcome proof that young adult publishers recognise the value of translated fiction, too. Originally published in 2003, Nine Open Arms has won several esteemed awards in its native Holland. It’s unclear whether we’ll get the sequel (which has been compared to The Book Thief), but I sincerely hope so. Nevertheless, this story stands alone.

It takes place during the 1930s, in the Netherlands, and follows the trials of a large, motherless family, always on the move because their father – a dreamer – takes risks that never pay off. In fact, they’re destitute and come to live in a dilapidated house at the end of a dusty road, placing them literally on the edge of civilisation.

The narrative is with the eldest girl, Fing, a wise and responsible child, perfectly pitched to show off the more eccentric characters, such as her sister Muulke, who is dramatic and fearless, and her hard-as-nails grandmother, Oma Mei.

The house has its secrets, and somehow they are linked to Fing’s family. We’re taken back to the 1860s to see how. For me, the joy was in the journey more than the revelations, in the warmth and humour alongside the hardship and sadness. Highly recommended for ages 12 and up, with good crossover appeal.

Emily Gale