A haunting future classic in the 'To Kill a Mockingbird' tradition. Bookseller This book was acclaimed in the USA on its debut three years ago, and it's easy to see why. Even now, when the President is a black man, this is dangerous ground for an author to tread - and Johnston treads it well. She describes the undercurrents of racism and how David becomes aware of them beautifully, sensitively and with unflinching honesty. The writing is clear and lovely, extremely readable, but with child-like inflexions and the rich lexicon of the American South. www.writeaway.org.uk 5 stars. The quality of this outstanding novel is evident from the first page, for this is an author who writes rather than word-processes... It is exhilarating to read prose packed with local colour and idiom and always so beautifully crafted. Author of over 100 books in her own country, Tony Johnston is comparatively unknown over here. This excellent novel should put this right. Books for Keeps There's a good reason why To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is mentioned in reference to Bone by Bone by Bone. It is a modern book on a similar vein which I believe should, in time, become a classic. nayusreadingcorner Much, if not all, of America has changed in the last sixty years and this book is a telling story of those unhappy, turbulent times. Carousel From the stark black and white cover to the ingenious title, Bone by Bone by Bone is a triumph, one which captures the brightness of childhood with the shadow of adulthood in a time which should be left behind but never forgotten. INIS A very poignant story, which for some readers should offer an insight into difficult situations that still have relevance today. School Librarian A biting, exciting read. Irish Examiner
