The Lotterys are a very recognisable family - very quickly the reader feels that they have known each member for years. That's part of the enchantment of Donoghue's writing - and the spell she weaves with this narrative is inescapable. She has written a family of eccentrics and individuals, but readers from all backgrounds will find themselves identifying with and understanding these wonderfully written characters.
Caroline Hadilaksono's silhouettes and illustrations resonate with the dynamic chaos of the Lottery family and perfectly complement the story Donoghue is telling, creating a warmth and a sense of home that is as compelling as it is beautiful.
The story itself could not be more relevant to the turbulent times the world finds itself in - the true meaning of belonging, home, tolerance and acceptance. Offbeat, funny, wise and deliciously different, Emma Donoghue's first book for children is an essential read.
-- Becky Long -
INISEmma Donoghue... creates a warm-hearted, eccentric family community that encompasses all ages - and all backgrounds... the writing is assured and her characters emerge full of life and in glorious technicolour. For confident readers who want a thoroughly enjoyable read that is both thoughtful and fun this must be recommended. -- Ferelith Hordon -
Books for KeepsHowever, this is a story with understanding and acceptance at its heart and she comes to realise that he does belong with them after all - 'He's our plus one'. There are many characters in this story - each one a complete individual. From the parents to the children with Aspen's eating issues and inability to keep still, Brian/ Briar's gender fluidity and Oak's developmental delay - each is a part of this loving and chaotic family and each has their own clear identity. There is also a rich tapestry of cultural diversity at play throughout the story which threads its way through as part of family life, customs, food and festivals. Showing that family is what you make it, this is a wonderful story about relationships and family. -- Sue Wilsher -
Reading Zone
About the Author
Born in Dublin in 1969, and now living in Canada, Emma Donoghue writes fiction (novels and short stories, contemporary and historical including The Pull of the Stars), as well as drama for screen and stage. Room, was a New York Times Best Book of 2010 and a finalist for the Man Booker, Commonwealth, and Orange Prizes, selling between two and three million copies in forty languages. Donoghue was nominated for an Academy Award for her 2015 adaptation starring Brie Larson. She co-wrote the screenplay for the film of her novel The Wonder, starring Florence Pugh and distributed by Netflix.
Caroline Hadilaksonowas born in Indonesia and moved to Los Angeles when she was twelve. She now lives and works in New York, where she is a freelance designer and illustrator working on everything from children's books to murals. She is the illustrator of Emma Donoghue's children's titles The Lotterys Plus One and The Lotterys More Or Less.
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