Run, Pip, Run

Thankfully, the junior fiction selection for the Convent book group Homelessness theme was much more enjoyable than the YA book! Run, Pip, Run was a deserved winner of the 2016 Readings Children's Book Prize, by debut Australian author J.C. Jones.

Pip's tenth birthday starts horribly when her carer, gruff old Sully, collapses with a stroke and goes off to hospital. With no other family, Pip is determined not to end up in the hands of 'the welfare' and goes on the run. If this was a current YA book, it would probably descend into dark and grim territory, but Pip is brave and resourceful, and her adventures are handled with a light touch that emphasises the help she receives along the way.

Run, Pip, Run is a terrific read for boys and girls alike.