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The Writing Class
From the author of The House of Second Chances and A Week to Remember comes a warmly captivating story of love, loss and new beginnings
Irishwoman Vivian Molloy has lived so long on the beautiful north-west coast of Tasmania, she considers herself a local. Recently separated from Dave, her husband of nearly thirty years, she is still trying to come to terms with her new single life when an old colleague asks her to run a writing course at the local library. Apprehensive but unwilling to back out, Vivian takes on the class - and finds an ensemble of characters with different motivations for attending.
Oscar has come to Tasmania to house-sit for his sister, but when he joins the group he encounters both unexpected challenges and a new-found community. Nineteen-year-old new mum Sienna is encouraged by her case worker to attend. Once an able student, Sienna is best by fears, but also hope for herself and her baby. Marilyn joins the class under protest. Tired of living with a dysfunctional family, she is surprised when the course becomes a catalyst for change in her own life and the lives of others.
As the weeks go by, Vivian's old classroom confidence returns but when daughter Clodagh has a crisis of her own, Vivian and Dave must pull together to help her.
Praise for Esther Campion
'Warm, wise and full of humour' CATHY KELLY
'Joins the captivating Maeve Binchy in the pantheon of popular Irish novelists' Irish Scene
Irishwoman Vivian Molloy has lived so long on the beautiful north-west coast of Tasmania, she considers herself a local. Recently separated from Dave, her husband of nearly thirty years, she is still trying to come to terms with her new single life when an old colleague asks her to run a writing course at the local library. Apprehensive but unwilling to back out, Vivian takes on the class - and finds an ensemble of characters with different motivations for attending.
Oscar has come to Tasmania to house-sit for his sister, but when he joins the group he encounters both unexpected challenges and a new-found community. Nineteen-year-old new mum Sienna is encouraged by her case worker to attend. Once an able student, Sienna is best by fears, but also hope for herself and her baby. Marilyn joins the class under protest. Tired of living with a dysfunctional family, she is surprised when the course becomes a catalyst for change in her own life and the lives of others.
As the weeks go by, Vivian's old classroom confidence returns but when daughter Clodagh has a crisis of her own, Vivian and Dave must pull together to help her.
Praise for Esther Campion
'Warm, wise and full of humour' CATHY KELLY
'Joins the captivating Maeve Binchy in the pantheon of popular Irish novelists' Irish Scene
384 pages, Paperback
Published November 27, 2024
11 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Esther Campion
6 books56 followersEsther Campion is from Cork, Ireland and currently lives in north-west Tasmania. She attended North Presentation Convent in Cork and has degrees from University College Cork and the University of Aberdeen, Scotland.
Esther and her Orcadian husband have lived in Ireland, Scotland, Norway and South Australia. They have a grown-up daughter in Adelaide and the two youngest at home in Tassie with an over-indulged chocolate Labrador and two horses, which Esther firmly believes are living proof that dreams really can come true.
Esther and her Orcadian husband have lived in Ireland, Scotland, Norway and South Australia. They have a grown-up daughter in Adelaide and the two youngest at home in Tassie with an over-indulged chocolate Labrador and two horses, which Esther firmly believes are living proof that dreams really can come true.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 3, 2024
EXCERPT: Under normal circumstances, Vivian Malloy would never have dreamt of driving forty kilometres out of town to do her grocery shopping. With a perfectly good supermarket on her own doorstep, anyone would think she was mad driving to Ulverstone. Not that she minded the drive up the coast on a good day. There was nothing quite like the view from where the highway rose out of Devonport and scooped round the downhill bend where the Bass Strait revealed itself, stretching out to the horizon in all its sparkling glory. Today, however, a low gloomy sky hung over the ocean. Rain wasn't far away. February was still summer, of course. She just hadn't got out of the habit of thinking the season came to an end with the start of a new school year.
In the supermarket, Vivian pushed her trolley round the vegetable stands. Cauliflower was on special, but she didn't need a whole cauliflower. The last one had blackened in the fridge, like a lot of things, neglected and past their sell-by date. On the radio, the presenter was asking a local author what advice he'd give to his younger self. His answer was something trite about self-belief. If anyone asked Vivian right now what advice she would give to her younger self, it would be to think hard before taking early retirement, and to know that despite what your marriage vows might say, parting could come well before death.
ABOUT 'THE WRITING CLASS': Vivian Molloy hardly expected to retire early from teaching, but for her husband, Dave, she'd do anything. But when Dave abandons her after a weekend away, she returns home to their picturesque town in Tasmania, shell-shocked and alone with nothing to fill her days.
When an old colleague tries to rope her into teaching a writing class at the local library, Vivian is hesitant. How can she teach with her life falling apart? But it is the people she meets that help her remember who she is. Marilyn, tough-as-nails, has a secret passion for reading and a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, is trying to outrun her painful past. Quiet Oscar is housesitting for his sister, retreating from the mainland after losing his job.
As the writing class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its members will face decisions that will change their lives, and come to realise that when one door closes, others open in its place.
MY THOUGHTS: The Writing Class is a tender, heartwarming novel about a disparate group of strangers forming bonds and learning to trust again.
The main character, Vivian, is in crisis mode. Her husband, after leaving to see an ill friend, informs her that he needs a break from her and simply doesn't return. In shock, ashamed and embarrassed, she withdraws into herself, pushing away her friends and acquaintances who are concerned for her. But somehow, she finds herself coerced into teaching a writing class at the local library.
Her students turn out to be an interesting lot, having joined up for various reasons, but most of them are in crisis too. The large number of backstories becomes more than a little overwhelming and I do believe this would have been a better book had the story concentrated on Vivian and only one or two of the class members with the remaining characters being more background.
The beautiful Golden Retriever on the cover, Dog, features in the story, belonging to one of the characters, Oscar. Another dog, Sandy, also plays a part.
Having said that, I did enjoy this read, my first by this author, and I will be looking for more from her. The Writing Class demonstrates that everyone has a story, but it takes bravery and self-belief to share it; and that we should not hesitate to stretch out a helping hand where it is needed. Sometimes the offer of friendship is a lifeline.
I was interested to read, in the acknowledgements, that her inspiration for this novel came from having been asked to deliver a ten-week writing program at Devonport Library in Tasmania. The project was put on hold due to the advent of Covid and so she turned it into a novel.
⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheWritingClass #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Esther Campion is from Cork, Ireland and currently lives in north-west Tasmania. Esther and her Orcadian husband have lived in Ireland, Scotland, Norway and South Australia. They have a grown-up daughter in Adelaide and the two youngest at home in Tassie with an over-indulged chocolate Labrador and two horses, which Esther firmly believes are living proof that dreams really can come true.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Hachette Australia and New Zealand for providing a digital ARC of The Writing Class by Esther Campion for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
In the supermarket, Vivian pushed her trolley round the vegetable stands. Cauliflower was on special, but she didn't need a whole cauliflower. The last one had blackened in the fridge, like a lot of things, neglected and past their sell-by date. On the radio, the presenter was asking a local author what advice he'd give to his younger self. His answer was something trite about self-belief. If anyone asked Vivian right now what advice she would give to her younger self, it would be to think hard before taking early retirement, and to know that despite what your marriage vows might say, parting could come well before death.
ABOUT 'THE WRITING CLASS': Vivian Molloy hardly expected to retire early from teaching, but for her husband, Dave, she'd do anything. But when Dave abandons her after a weekend away, she returns home to their picturesque town in Tasmania, shell-shocked and alone with nothing to fill her days.
When an old colleague tries to rope her into teaching a writing class at the local library, Vivian is hesitant. How can she teach with her life falling apart? But it is the people she meets that help her remember who she is. Marilyn, tough-as-nails, has a secret passion for reading and a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, is trying to outrun her painful past. Quiet Oscar is housesitting for his sister, retreating from the mainland after losing his job.
As the writing class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its members will face decisions that will change their lives, and come to realise that when one door closes, others open in its place.
MY THOUGHTS: The Writing Class is a tender, heartwarming novel about a disparate group of strangers forming bonds and learning to trust again.
The main character, Vivian, is in crisis mode. Her husband, after leaving to see an ill friend, informs her that he needs a break from her and simply doesn't return. In shock, ashamed and embarrassed, she withdraws into herself, pushing away her friends and acquaintances who are concerned for her. But somehow, she finds herself coerced into teaching a writing class at the local library.
Her students turn out to be an interesting lot, having joined up for various reasons, but most of them are in crisis too. The large number of backstories becomes more than a little overwhelming and I do believe this would have been a better book had the story concentrated on Vivian and only one or two of the class members with the remaining characters being more background.
The beautiful Golden Retriever on the cover, Dog, features in the story, belonging to one of the characters, Oscar. Another dog, Sandy, also plays a part.
Having said that, I did enjoy this read, my first by this author, and I will be looking for more from her. The Writing Class demonstrates that everyone has a story, but it takes bravery and self-belief to share it; and that we should not hesitate to stretch out a helping hand where it is needed. Sometimes the offer of friendship is a lifeline.
I was interested to read, in the acknowledgements, that her inspiration for this novel came from having been asked to deliver a ten-week writing program at Devonport Library in Tasmania. The project was put on hold due to the advent of Covid and so she turned it into a novel.
⭐⭐⭐.5
#TheWritingClass #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: Esther Campion is from Cork, Ireland and currently lives in north-west Tasmania. Esther and her Orcadian husband have lived in Ireland, Scotland, Norway and South Australia. They have a grown-up daughter in Adelaide and the two youngest at home in Tassie with an over-indulged chocolate Labrador and two horses, which Esther firmly believes are living proof that dreams really can come true.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Hachette Australia and New Zealand for providing a digital ARC of The Writing Class by Esther Campion for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 25, 2024
The story revolves around Vivian Malloy, a retired Educator, whose husband his recently left home under very unusual circumstances. Vivian is given the opportunity to teach an adult writing class at the local library and there she meets a number of damaged people, some living quite endangered lives.
I enjoyed many parts of this book but the overall impression I had of it was being overwhelmed by the sheer number of characters, each of whom had their own story to tell. To me Sienna was the main character amongst the classmates and the book would have been more cohesive without bringing the backgrounds of the others into the narrative at all.
Still a well written book which will appeal to readers of contemporary fiction who enjoy a story about current day issues. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I enjoyed many parts of this book but the overall impression I had of it was being overwhelmed by the sheer number of characters, each of whom had their own story to tell. To me Sienna was the main character amongst the classmates and the book would have been more cohesive without bringing the backgrounds of the others into the narrative at all.
Still a well written book which will appeal to readers of contemporary fiction who enjoy a story about current day issues. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 27, 2024
Vivian Molloy's husband urges her to retire from teaching, and he’s keen to travel Australia and then Covid ends their plans. The borders open and they attend the Festival of Singing in Queensland and Dave has been a bit distant lately and Vivian hopes a holiday will rekindle the spark.
When Dave doesn’t return to their room on the last night, and Vivian has to go home to Devenport alone, she’s upset and embarrassed and very confused. While grocery shopping in another town, Vivian bumps into an old work colleague Cathy and she asks her to teach a writing class at the library, at first Vivian is hesitant and she decides to give it a go and it will take her mind of her marital problems. The members of her writing class are attending for a variety of reasons, and a mixture of ages, ethnic groups and circumstances.
Marilyn looks forward to visiting the library once a week, to get away from her useless partner Frank and she loves to read romance novels. Sienna is a young single mother, she’s a victim of domestic violence, and she's scared and lost her confidence. Oscar is house-sitting for his sister and brother-in-law, he was retrenched from his job in Melbourne, and he’s suffering from long Covid and needs to improve his literacy skills to find a new job.
Vivian remembers how much she enjoyed being an educator and gets back into the grove, she doesn’t bombard her students with too much at once, and it’s an inclusive environment. The lessons become an outlet for Vivian and her class, here they can write down how they feel and talk to others, friendships and bonds are formed and confidence grows.
I received a copy of The Writing Class by Esther Campion from NetGalley and Hachette Australia & New Zealand in exchange for an honest review. A well written and uplifting narrative about how everyone has a story and they need a way to express themselves and share it, being brave and taking risks, helping others and forming meaningful connections.
Five stars from me, the characters are wonderful and I cheered them on and felt sad when they did, and a great teacher can be an inspiration and libraries are a hub for many communities and they provide much more than reading material. I highly recommend The Writing Class and the author’s previous novel A Week to Remember.
When Dave doesn’t return to their room on the last night, and Vivian has to go home to Devenport alone, she’s upset and embarrassed and very confused. While grocery shopping in another town, Vivian bumps into an old work colleague Cathy and she asks her to teach a writing class at the library, at first Vivian is hesitant and she decides to give it a go and it will take her mind of her marital problems. The members of her writing class are attending for a variety of reasons, and a mixture of ages, ethnic groups and circumstances.
Marilyn looks forward to visiting the library once a week, to get away from her useless partner Frank and she loves to read romance novels. Sienna is a young single mother, she’s a victim of domestic violence, and she's scared and lost her confidence. Oscar is house-sitting for his sister and brother-in-law, he was retrenched from his job in Melbourne, and he’s suffering from long Covid and needs to improve his literacy skills to find a new job.
Vivian remembers how much she enjoyed being an educator and gets back into the grove, she doesn’t bombard her students with too much at once, and it’s an inclusive environment. The lessons become an outlet for Vivian and her class, here they can write down how they feel and talk to others, friendships and bonds are formed and confidence grows.
I received a copy of The Writing Class by Esther Campion from NetGalley and Hachette Australia & New Zealand in exchange for an honest review. A well written and uplifting narrative about how everyone has a story and they need a way to express themselves and share it, being brave and taking risks, helping others and forming meaningful connections.
Five stars from me, the characters are wonderful and I cheered them on and felt sad when they did, and a great teacher can be an inspiration and libraries are a hub for many communities and they provide much more than reading material. I highly recommend The Writing Class and the author’s previous novel A Week to Remember.
November 19, 2024
Vivian Malloy was originally from Ireland, but loved her home in Tasmania. When she was approached by Cathy from the library, asking her if she would run a writing class, Vivian was sure the answer would be no. She was in a bad place as her husband of thirty years, Dave, had left her, living in mainland Queensland, leaving Vivian alone, wondering what had happened, and what had gone wrong. Sienna was living in a shelter with her baby Daisy, after finally escaping the clutches of her brutal partner, Rory. She was nervous, checking over her shoulder continually, while her case worker Jess, assured her they would take care of her and Daisy. Oscar had been bullied at school because of his inability to read and write, and Marilyn was constantly trying to keep the peace between her drunk of a partner, Frank, and their sons. These slightly damaged people, and a few others, came together on a Friday for the writing class, with Vivian as their teacher.
Gradually these completely different people came together, made friends and learned as Vivian encouraged them. They gained confidence in themselves, and slowly their lives changed for the better. Vivian's life improved as well, going from her being reluctant to go to the library on a Friday, to looking forward to it each week. What would be the outcome for them all at the end of the 10 week course?
The Writing Class is an excellent contemporary novel by Aussie author Esther Campion which I enjoyed very much. I did have a little trouble keeping all the characters right in my head, but that soon settled. Set in Tasmania, a beautiful part of the Australian countryside, there were special stand out characters who I was cheering on, pleased to see where their lives were headed. The beautiful dog on the book cover is Dog, owned by Oscar, with a wonderful story behind him. I've enjoyed the past 3 novels by this author that I've read, and this one was no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Hachette AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
Gradually these completely different people came together, made friends and learned as Vivian encouraged them. They gained confidence in themselves, and slowly their lives changed for the better. Vivian's life improved as well, going from her being reluctant to go to the library on a Friday, to looking forward to it each week. What would be the outcome for them all at the end of the 10 week course?
The Writing Class is an excellent contemporary novel by Aussie author Esther Campion which I enjoyed very much. I did have a little trouble keeping all the characters right in my head, but that soon settled. Set in Tasmania, a beautiful part of the Australian countryside, there were special stand out characters who I was cheering on, pleased to see where their lives were headed. The beautiful dog on the book cover is Dog, owned by Oscar, with a wonderful story behind him. I've enjoyed the past 3 novels by this author that I've read, and this one was no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Hachette AU for my digital ARC to read and review.
December 3, 2024
This is a heart-warming story filled with so many emotions as a group of people join together for a writing class at the local library, this group all come from different backgrounds and some have some major problems but together maybe they can find what they need.
Vivian Molloy has been happily married for over thirty years to Dave, when they retire early, Vivian, doing this for the man she loves because covid has changed his job so much she does love teaching at the high school but when after they attend a choir concert on the Gold Coast he abandons her. Life changes dramatically for her, when she is offered the chance to teach a writing class to adults at the local library although hesitant she takes it on.
Marilyn loves reading and often pops into the library to borrow books her home life is not always good, partner, mother and grandmother reading takes her away from life for a while, when the librarian Cathy invites her to write reviews and then attend the writing class she is very hesitant but with a push from a friend she takes on the class.
Sienna a young single mother is doing her best to create a new life for her and her nine month old daughter but escaping her past is not easy for her, her spirit has been broken will she find it again joining in with this class?
Oscar a divorced man father of one, is in Tasmania house sitting for his sister Oscar lives in Melbourne but has no job now and he wants to be able to better his writing skills to apply for jobs will he succeed?
There are other students in the class who also add to this beautiful story as they all get to know each other they encourage and support each other in so many ways seeing them all build confidence and make decisions and what’s more become friends was so uplifting. I loved getting to know the characters, I was turning the pages and cheering them on. I do highly recommend this one, MS Campion has taken some issues and handled them so well and yes some of it was a bit tough but written so well, many thanks for a story that will stay with me for a long time to come.
My thanks to Hachette AU and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
Vivian Molloy has been happily married for over thirty years to Dave, when they retire early, Vivian, doing this for the man she loves because covid has changed his job so much she does love teaching at the high school but when after they attend a choir concert on the Gold Coast he abandons her. Life changes dramatically for her, when she is offered the chance to teach a writing class to adults at the local library although hesitant she takes it on.
Marilyn loves reading and often pops into the library to borrow books her home life is not always good, partner, mother and grandmother reading takes her away from life for a while, when the librarian Cathy invites her to write reviews and then attend the writing class she is very hesitant but with a push from a friend she takes on the class.
Sienna a young single mother is doing her best to create a new life for her and her nine month old daughter but escaping her past is not easy for her, her spirit has been broken will she find it again joining in with this class?
Oscar a divorced man father of one, is in Tasmania house sitting for his sister Oscar lives in Melbourne but has no job now and he wants to be able to better his writing skills to apply for jobs will he succeed?
There are other students in the class who also add to this beautiful story as they all get to know each other they encourage and support each other in so many ways seeing them all build confidence and make decisions and what’s more become friends was so uplifting. I loved getting to know the characters, I was turning the pages and cheering them on. I do highly recommend this one, MS Campion has taken some issues and handled them so well and yes some of it was a bit tough but written so well, many thanks for a story that will stay with me for a long time to come.
My thanks to Hachette AU and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.
June 26, 2025
4.5*
The Writing Class is an engrossing story, following the participants in a writing class at the Devonport Library in Tasmania, as they establish bonds of support and friendship, and face a variety of struggles in their lives beyond the class.
The Writing Class is an engrossing story, following the participants in a writing class at the Devonport Library in Tasmania, as they establish bonds of support and friendship, and face a variety of struggles in their lives beyond the class.
"This group had become her tribe, the library, a place where she belonged." (p.379)
December 5, 2024
Big thanks to Hachette for sending us a copy to read and review.
The journey of life has many flying miles and a number of speed bumps that test and bring joy to each one of us.
Circumstance, relationships and relocations and subsequent systemic issues bubble to the surface.
Welcome to Devonport where a grassroots snapshot of a Tasmanian community comes together.
Viv had her blueprint of later life thwarted by her husband.
Coerced into a teaching a writing course at her local library she becomes instrumental in the lives of people that need to be grouped together.
A mixed bunch of strangers from all walks of life brought not only an eagerness to learn but a desire to listen.
A grouping that built up each other’s confidence.
It also elevated Viv’s determination to sort out issues within her own life.
The spotlight was on the value and benefit of bringing together people.
The social and personal issues represented what many go through at some point.
I loved lots about this book but found it refreshing that a spotlight on Tasmania showed it has more dimension than tranquil beauty and quality food and air.
Like anywhere it has cracks in the social fabric.
The journey of life has many flying miles and a number of speed bumps that test and bring joy to each one of us.
Circumstance, relationships and relocations and subsequent systemic issues bubble to the surface.
Welcome to Devonport where a grassroots snapshot of a Tasmanian community comes together.
Viv had her blueprint of later life thwarted by her husband.
Coerced into a teaching a writing course at her local library she becomes instrumental in the lives of people that need to be grouped together.
A mixed bunch of strangers from all walks of life brought not only an eagerness to learn but a desire to listen.
A grouping that built up each other’s confidence.
It also elevated Viv’s determination to sort out issues within her own life.
The spotlight was on the value and benefit of bringing together people.
The social and personal issues represented what many go through at some point.
I loved lots about this book but found it refreshing that a spotlight on Tasmania showed it has more dimension than tranquil beauty and quality food and air.
Like anywhere it has cracks in the social fabric.
November 27, 2024
he Writing Class is another engaging story from Esther. Set in the beautiful Australian state of Tasmania, the tale is about a group of people from all walks of life coming together for a writing class at their local library.
There is something for everyone - the couple who suddenly separate after thirty years marriage, the newly divorced man who is house sitting for his sister, a young mother and her baby escaping domestic violence and a woman from a dysfunctional family seeking to make connections.
It is these individual stories that make Esther’s books so relatable and so very relevant. A community of people gathering and working together and it is through these interactions that they are able to make lasting changes to their own life journey.
There is something for everyone - the couple who suddenly separate after thirty years marriage, the newly divorced man who is house sitting for his sister, a young mother and her baby escaping domestic violence and a woman from a dysfunctional family seeking to make connections.
It is these individual stories that make Esther’s books so relatable and so very relevant. A community of people gathering and working together and it is through these interactions that they are able to make lasting changes to their own life journey.
March 20, 2025
“The Writing Class”
What a wonderful story, that deals with so many different things that we all know are happening in not only our lives and are happening in others peoples lives too, from struggles in marriages, domestic violence and the importance of family and friendships and second chances.
Vivian retired early from teaching, her husband Dave who she'd do any for abandons her after a weekend away. Vivian returns home to Tasmania, shell-shocked and alone with nothing to fill her days. Then an old colleague asks her to teach a writing class at the local library, Vivian is hesitant. Not sure how she could teach a Writing Class when her life is falling apart, but the students she meets help her to remember who she is.
Characters like Marilyn, tough-as-nails, who has a passion for reading but also has a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, who is trying to outrun her painful past and violence partner, Oscar is a quiet man who is housesitting for his sister, after losing his job on the mainland due to COVID.
The class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its students will face decisions that will change their lives, and come to realise that when one door closes, others open.
Five stars from me, loved the characters, it was wonderful to see how they all played apart in the class.
Highly recommended
What a wonderful story, that deals with so many different things that we all know are happening in not only our lives and are happening in others peoples lives too, from struggles in marriages, domestic violence and the importance of family and friendships and second chances.
Vivian retired early from teaching, her husband Dave who she'd do any for abandons her after a weekend away. Vivian returns home to Tasmania, shell-shocked and alone with nothing to fill her days. Then an old colleague asks her to teach a writing class at the local library, Vivian is hesitant. Not sure how she could teach a Writing Class when her life is falling apart, but the students she meets help her to remember who she is.
Characters like Marilyn, tough-as-nails, who has a passion for reading but also has a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, who is trying to outrun her painful past and violence partner, Oscar is a quiet man who is housesitting for his sister, after losing his job on the mainland due to COVID.
The class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its students will face decisions that will change their lives, and come to realise that when one door closes, others open.
Five stars from me, loved the characters, it was wonderful to see how they all played apart in the class.
Highly recommended
November 21, 2024
The Writing Class is set in Tasmania, Australia, not long after Covid restrictions have been lifted, and is a page turner. The story centres around Vivian Malloy. Just before Covid struck, Vivian’s husband of thirty odd years, David, convinces her to retire so they can travel around Australia together; of course these plans end when the lockdowns start. The book opens with the couple travelling to Queensland for an awards night. However David doesn't return to their hotel room that night and a distraught Vivian returns to Devonport alone.
Vivian can’t work out what has gone wrong, she thought their marriage was good. She is embarrassed about the situation and avoids people for a few weeks until she bumps into an old work associate who asks her to run a ten week writing course at the local library. Vivian decides to accept as she hopes it will distract her from worrying about David. The class are a mixture of ages, literacy and nationalities.
As the course progresses the students bond and learn to trust each other and start to help each other overcome various issues both in and out of the classroom. Vivian remembers how much she loved teaching and starts to get her confidence back. The back stories of the students, which are just as front and centre as Vivian’s, cover contemporary issues such as marital abuse, bullying, inability to read and write, long covid, alcoholism and slave labour. All the subjects were handled compassionately, as were the friendships that were forged as problems were overcome.
This is my first book by Esther Campion and it was beautifully written with amazing characters who I all cared for. I could not put the book down until I was satisfied everyone was going to be better off at the end of the book than they were at the beginning. I am certainly going to look up her other books as I love her writing.
Thank you to Hachette Australia for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Vivian can’t work out what has gone wrong, she thought their marriage was good. She is embarrassed about the situation and avoids people for a few weeks until she bumps into an old work associate who asks her to run a ten week writing course at the local library. Vivian decides to accept as she hopes it will distract her from worrying about David. The class are a mixture of ages, literacy and nationalities.
As the course progresses the students bond and learn to trust each other and start to help each other overcome various issues both in and out of the classroom. Vivian remembers how much she loved teaching and starts to get her confidence back. The back stories of the students, which are just as front and centre as Vivian’s, cover contemporary issues such as marital abuse, bullying, inability to read and write, long covid, alcoholism and slave labour. All the subjects were handled compassionately, as were the friendships that were forged as problems were overcome.
This is my first book by Esther Campion and it was beautifully written with amazing characters who I all cared for. I could not put the book down until I was satisfied everyone was going to be better off at the end of the book than they were at the beginning. I am certainly going to look up her other books as I love her writing.
Thank you to Hachette Australia for providing an advanced copy of this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
December 15, 2024
The Writing Class by @esther_campion_ is a heartwarming read that resonates so much with daily life. It gently reminds you not to judge too quickly and that being brave can alter the direction of your life in unexpected ways.
The story is told from four points of view, with the main point of view coming from Vivian Molloy. Recently retired from teaching, her husband Dave abandons her after a weekend away. She returns home, shell-shocked and alone.
Being roped into teaching a writing class at the library, Vivian soon finds that the people she meets help her to remember who she is without Dave and that being alone is ok.
Marilyn, tough-as-nails, has a secret passion for reading and a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, is trying to outrun her painful past. Quiet Oscar is housesitting for his sister, retreating from the mainland after losing his job.
As the writing class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its members will face decisions that will change their lives, and they soon realise that when one door closes, others open in its place.
It was a tender and raw read. There were unlikely friendships and second chances, and it was written beautifully. I became very invested in each of the characters, especially Sienna’s.
Thank you Hachette for copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
The story is told from four points of view, with the main point of view coming from Vivian Molloy. Recently retired from teaching, her husband Dave abandons her after a weekend away. She returns home, shell-shocked and alone.
Being roped into teaching a writing class at the library, Vivian soon finds that the people she meets help her to remember who she is without Dave and that being alone is ok.
Marilyn, tough-as-nails, has a secret passion for reading and a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, is trying to outrun her painful past. Quiet Oscar is housesitting for his sister, retreating from the mainland after losing his job.
As the writing class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its members will face decisions that will change their lives, and they soon realise that when one door closes, others open in its place.
It was a tender and raw read. There were unlikely friendships and second chances, and it was written beautifully. I became very invested in each of the characters, especially Sienna’s.
Thank you Hachette for copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2025
Beautiful cover. Vivian Molloy, Irish born and bred, now lives in Devonport, Tasmania, with her husband, Dave. On a choral trip to the Gold Coast, Dave drops a bombshell and stays behind. Vivian, feeling abandoned and unloved, returns to Tasmania alone. Unsure of her future and all the ramifications, Vivian reluctantly agrees to help Cathy, the local librarian, with the setting up and running of a writing class, lasting 10 weeks. A diverse range of people sign up, two of them battling and fleeing domestic violence and coercive control, while another is still suffering from long COVID and the effects of dyslexia. Heartbreaking and heartwarming this is a story filled with hope and the possibilities of change set on the beautiful and picturesque island of Tasmania. Highly recommended.
January 18, 2025
The promise of a story set in Tasmania lured me in but, then to find it was set in my hometown of Devonport was an added bonus!
I loved reading of the struggles of the different characters and how they helped each other to overcome their challenges and blossom.
The importance of libraries as a way to connect and help people cannot be underestimated.
I loved reading of the struggles of the different characters and how they helped each other to overcome their challenges and blossom.
The importance of libraries as a way to connect and help people cannot be underestimated.
August 17, 2025
Beautiful, heart warming story
I loved this book! The characters were wonderfully written and their individual stories were interesting, some of them with very sad or hard to read stories but ultimately this book was an uplifting and heartfelt story of unlikely friendships, feeling connected and community and had a very satisfying ending.
I enjoyed it so much.
I loved this book! The characters were wonderfully written and their individual stories were interesting, some of them with very sad or hard to read stories but ultimately this book was an uplifting and heartfelt story of unlikely friendships, feeling connected and community and had a very satisfying ending.
I enjoyed it so much.
January 11, 2025
A tender, heartwarming novel of unlikely friendships and second chances.
Vivian Molloy hardly expected to retire early from teaching, but for her husband, Dave, she'd do anything. But when Dave abandons her after a weekend away, she returns home to their picturesque town in Tasmania, shell-shocked and alone with nothing to fill her days.
When an old colleague tries to rope her into teaching a writing class at the local library, Vivian is hesitant. How can she teach with her life falling apart? But it is the people she meets that help her remember who she is. Marilyn, tough-as-nails, has a secret passion for reading and a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, is trying to outrun her painful past. Quiet Oscar is housesitting for his sister, retreating from the mainland after losing his job.
As the writing class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its members will face decisions that will change their lives and come to realise that when one door closes, others open in its place.
A writing circle brings writers from different walks of life together in one place to discuss their work in a workshop style setting. Writers will be able to give feedback and hear suggestions from fellow writers. It can build community in a classroom and help students gain public speaking cleans. This workshop method could be used for any genre of writing (creative prose, poetry, etc.). There may or may not be a facilitator, who is usually an established writer or teacher, but can be a volunteer from among the group. Writing Workshops can work on very established rules and formats, or can be more freeform.
Writing circles can build a sense of community and help writers become more confident in their own work. They teach writers how to give and receive constructive criticism, enable them to learn from one another's mistakes and successes, and let them appreciate different opinions and views. In some cases, writing circles can be used as a form of group therapy (writing for healing). Notable writing circles include but are not limited to the Norwich Writers' Circle and the Iowa Writers' Workshop.
Vivian Molloy hardly expected to retire early from teaching, but for her husband, Dave, she'd do anything. But when Dave abandons her after a weekend away, she returns home to their picturesque town in Tasmania, shell-shocked and alone with nothing to fill her days.
When an old colleague tries to rope her into teaching a writing class at the local library, Vivian is hesitant. How can she teach with her life falling apart? But it is the people she meets that help her remember who she is. Marilyn, tough-as-nails, has a secret passion for reading and a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, is trying to outrun her painful past. Quiet Oscar is housesitting for his sister, retreating from the mainland after losing his job.
As the writing class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its members will face decisions that will change their lives and come to realise that when one door closes, others open in its place.
A writing circle brings writers from different walks of life together in one place to discuss their work in a workshop style setting. Writers will be able to give feedback and hear suggestions from fellow writers. It can build community in a classroom and help students gain public speaking cleans. This workshop method could be used for any genre of writing (creative prose, poetry, etc.). There may or may not be a facilitator, who is usually an established writer or teacher, but can be a volunteer from among the group. Writing Workshops can work on very established rules and formats, or can be more freeform.
Writing circles can build a sense of community and help writers become more confident in their own work. They teach writers how to give and receive constructive criticism, enable them to learn from one another's mistakes and successes, and let them appreciate different opinions and views. In some cases, writing circles can be used as a form of group therapy (writing for healing). Notable writing circles include but are not limited to the Norwich Writers' Circle and the Iowa Writers' Workshop.
August 14, 2025
The Writing Class by Esther Campion
The Writing Class by Esther Campion is set post-COVID in Devonport, Tasmania. Vivian Molloy, recently retired, is excited to share the next chapter of her life with her husband but when he abruptly leaves her, Vivian is left stunned, adrift and deeply ashamed. A chance encounter with an ex-colleague has Vivian reluctantly agreeing to lead a community writing class at the local library. What begins as a dishearten return to teaching is soon, not only a turning point for Vivian, but for each member of the course.
This story has a lot of characters and took a little time to grasp who they all were.
Oscar, a quietly grieving man recovering from long COVID; Sienna, a young mother fleeing domestic violence; and Marilyn, who uses books as an escape from a chaotic home life are the main cast. Each character has a varied reason for joining the writing class which incorporates a lot of contemporary themes such physical and emotional domestic violence, inability to read and write, long covid, alcoholism and slave labour. While there is a lot going on, Campion’s hasn’t shyed shy away from exploring tough themes and has written them with sensitivity, never sensationalising, always humanising. Each character feels real, their pain and growth resonant.
What I loved most about this book is the accurate scene placing of Devonport. At times I could physically visualise myself in East Devonport, Chichester Drive (even though this street was not named, I had a clear imagine in my head of Sienna’s unit and the surrounding units), Ulverstone, Port Sorell and Shearwater and of course the Devonport Library.
With its cast of everyday people navigating extraordinary difficulties The Writing Class highlights the need for community hubs and connection. Readers who enjoy character-driven contemporary fiction with a sense of healing and rehabilition will find this a rewarding read.
The Writing Class by Esther Campion is set post-COVID in Devonport, Tasmania. Vivian Molloy, recently retired, is excited to share the next chapter of her life with her husband but when he abruptly leaves her, Vivian is left stunned, adrift and deeply ashamed. A chance encounter with an ex-colleague has Vivian reluctantly agreeing to lead a community writing class at the local library. What begins as a dishearten return to teaching is soon, not only a turning point for Vivian, but for each member of the course.
This story has a lot of characters and took a little time to grasp who they all were.
Oscar, a quietly grieving man recovering from long COVID; Sienna, a young mother fleeing domestic violence; and Marilyn, who uses books as an escape from a chaotic home life are the main cast. Each character has a varied reason for joining the writing class which incorporates a lot of contemporary themes such physical and emotional domestic violence, inability to read and write, long covid, alcoholism and slave labour. While there is a lot going on, Campion’s hasn’t shyed shy away from exploring tough themes and has written them with sensitivity, never sensationalising, always humanising. Each character feels real, their pain and growth resonant.
What I loved most about this book is the accurate scene placing of Devonport. At times I could physically visualise myself in East Devonport, Chichester Drive (even though this street was not named, I had a clear imagine in my head of Sienna’s unit and the surrounding units), Ulverstone, Port Sorell and Shearwater and of course the Devonport Library.
With its cast of everyday people navigating extraordinary difficulties The Writing Class highlights the need for community hubs and connection. Readers who enjoy character-driven contemporary fiction with a sense of healing and rehabilition will find this a rewarding read.
July 25, 2025
‘Vivian Molloy hardly expected to retire early from teaching, but for her husband, Dave, she’d do anything. But when Dave abandons her after a weekend away, she returns home to their picturesque town in Tasmania, shell-shocked and alone with nothing to fill her days.
When an old colleague tries to rope her into teaching a writing class at the local library, Vivian is hesitant. How can she teach with her life falling apart? But it is the people she meets that help her remember who she is. Marilyn, tough-as-nails, has a secret passion for reading and a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, is trying to outrun her painful past. Quiet Oscar is housesitting for his sister, retreating from the mainland after losing his job.
As the writing class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its members will face decisions that will change their lives, and come to realise that when one door closes, others open in its place.’
This book was wonderful.
I am a massive fan of Esther Campion, so I went into this book with high hopes, and I am happy to say it not only lived up to my expectations, but it well and truly surpassed them.
One of the things that I love most about Esther Campion’s novels is the way she crafts real, flawed, human characters that readers can relate to and, in most cases, recognise themselves or people they know in them, and The Writing Class had these characters in spades.
The way in which the characters slowly developed felt really natural to the story being told, and it made for a really beautiful reading experience to watch this diverse group of characters grow individually and as a collection over the course of the story.
On top of the brilliant characters, Esther Campion is fantastic at creating relatable and interesting stories. The way in which she was able to weave together multiple individual stories and have them all centre around a local library was truly remarkable.
I honestly don’t have a bad word to say about this book. I am glad that I finally got around to reading it, and I am looking forward to rereading it in the future.
The Writing Class by Esther Campion will take you on a journey that you won’t want to end.
Geramie Kate Barker
gemsbooknook.wordpress.com
When an old colleague tries to rope her into teaching a writing class at the local library, Vivian is hesitant. How can she teach with her life falling apart? But it is the people she meets that help her remember who she is. Marilyn, tough-as-nails, has a secret passion for reading and a complex family life. Sienna, a young single mother, is trying to outrun her painful past. Quiet Oscar is housesitting for his sister, retreating from the mainland after losing his job.
As the writing class becomes a refuge and strangers become friends, its members will face decisions that will change their lives, and come to realise that when one door closes, others open in its place.’
This book was wonderful.
I am a massive fan of Esther Campion, so I went into this book with high hopes, and I am happy to say it not only lived up to my expectations, but it well and truly surpassed them.
One of the things that I love most about Esther Campion’s novels is the way she crafts real, flawed, human characters that readers can relate to and, in most cases, recognise themselves or people they know in them, and The Writing Class had these characters in spades.
The way in which the characters slowly developed felt really natural to the story being told, and it made for a really beautiful reading experience to watch this diverse group of characters grow individually and as a collection over the course of the story.
On top of the brilliant characters, Esther Campion is fantastic at creating relatable and interesting stories. The way in which she was able to weave together multiple individual stories and have them all centre around a local library was truly remarkable.
I honestly don’t have a bad word to say about this book. I am glad that I finally got around to reading it, and I am looking forward to rereading it in the future.
The Writing Class by Esther Campion will take you on a journey that you won’t want to end.
Geramie Kate Barker
gemsbooknook.wordpress.com
April 1, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. From the very first pages, I found myself drawn into the lives of this eclectic group of characters, each of them carrying their own struggles, hopes, and reasons for joining the writing class. The way the author slowly reveals their stories is masterful—just enough detail to truly understand them and what makes them tick, but never so much that it bogs down the pacing of the story.
At its heart, The Writing Class is about connection, growth, and the unexpected ways people can help each other heal. Vivian, newly separated and still finding her footing, is such a wonderfully real protagonist, navigating her own personal challenges while guiding her students through their own. Each member of the class is so well-drawn—Oscar, thrown into Tasmania unexpectedly; Sienna, the young mum trying to rebuild her life; Marilyn, reluctant at first but ultimately transformed by the experience. I loved that every character had their own unique journey and, by the end, each was in a better place than where they started.
The book doesn’t shy away from big, emotional themes, and there are definitely moments that bring a tear to the eye. But it’s also warm, witty, and full of uplifting moments that leave you smiling. Beautifully written, deeply engaging, and with a wonderful sense of place, this is a novel that lingers in your heart long after you’ve finished.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
At its heart, The Writing Class is about connection, growth, and the unexpected ways people can help each other heal. Vivian, newly separated and still finding her footing, is such a wonderfully real protagonist, navigating her own personal challenges while guiding her students through their own. Each member of the class is so well-drawn—Oscar, thrown into Tasmania unexpectedly; Sienna, the young mum trying to rebuild her life; Marilyn, reluctant at first but ultimately transformed by the experience. I loved that every character had their own unique journey and, by the end, each was in a better place than where they started.
The book doesn’t shy away from big, emotional themes, and there are definitely moments that bring a tear to the eye. But it’s also warm, witty, and full of uplifting moments that leave you smiling. Beautifully written, deeply engaging, and with a wonderful sense of place, this is a novel that lingers in your heart long after you’ve finished.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 17, 2025
The Writing Class by Esther Campion is a heart-warming story about a writing class held in a local Tasmanian Library. It’s reminiscent of Maeve Binchy with a distinctly Irish flair while also capturing the stunning Tasmanian scenery.
When Cathy asks Vivian to teach a writing class for adults for adults covering all abilities, she isn’t sure if she wants to take it on. Her husband has just left her and she has recently retired from teaching. She isn’t sure if she can face a writing class when she’s been driving to the next town over just to avoid running into anyone she knows at the supermarket.
She reluctantly accepts the position and is overwhelmed by how much the students help her come out of her shell. There’s Sienna who is escaping an abusive partner. Oscar who is dealing with long Covid and the reality that he needs to find a new job, even though writing is not his thing. And Marilyn just wants to learn how to write book reviews until the class helps her escape from her dreary life.
I very much enjoyed reading The Writing Class. It was a captivating story about how one writing class can change everything for the participants. I loved the different points of view and felt as though each of the characters were well fleshed out.
Many thanks to Hachette for sending me a review copy.
When Cathy asks Vivian to teach a writing class for adults for adults covering all abilities, she isn’t sure if she wants to take it on. Her husband has just left her and she has recently retired from teaching. She isn’t sure if she can face a writing class when she’s been driving to the next town over just to avoid running into anyone she knows at the supermarket.
She reluctantly accepts the position and is overwhelmed by how much the students help her come out of her shell. There’s Sienna who is escaping an abusive partner. Oscar who is dealing with long Covid and the reality that he needs to find a new job, even though writing is not his thing. And Marilyn just wants to learn how to write book reviews until the class helps her escape from her dreary life.
I very much enjoyed reading The Writing Class. It was a captivating story about how one writing class can change everything for the participants. I loved the different points of view and felt as though each of the characters were well fleshed out.
Many thanks to Hachette for sending me a review copy.
March 7, 2025
A feel-good story with lovely realistic characters, each with an interesting background.
From the author of The House of Second Chances and A Week to Remember comes a warmly captivating story of love, loss and new beginnings Irishwoman Vivian Molloy has lived so long on the beautiful north-west coast of Tasmania, she considers herself a local. Recently separated from Dave, her husband of nearly thirty years, she is still trying to come to terms with her new single life when an old colleague asks her to run a writing course at the local library. Apprehensive but unwilling to back out, Vivian takes on the class - and finds an ensemble of characters with different motivations for attending. Oscar has come to Tasmania to house-sit for his sister, but when he joins the group he encounters both unexpected challenges and a new-found community. Nineteen-year-old new mum Sienna is encouraged by her case worker to attend. Once an able student, Sienna is best by fears, but also hope for herself and her baby. Marilyn joins the class under protest. Tired of living with a dysfunctional family, she is surprised when the course becomes a catalyst for change in her own life and the lives of others. As the weeks go by, Vivian's old classroom confidence returns but when daughter Clodagh has a crisis of her own, Vivian and Dave must pull together to help her.
From the author of The House of Second Chances and A Week to Remember comes a warmly captivating story of love, loss and new beginnings Irishwoman Vivian Molloy has lived so long on the beautiful north-west coast of Tasmania, she considers herself a local. Recently separated from Dave, her husband of nearly thirty years, she is still trying to come to terms with her new single life when an old colleague asks her to run a writing course at the local library. Apprehensive but unwilling to back out, Vivian takes on the class - and finds an ensemble of characters with different motivations for attending. Oscar has come to Tasmania to house-sit for his sister, but when he joins the group he encounters both unexpected challenges and a new-found community. Nineteen-year-old new mum Sienna is encouraged by her case worker to attend. Once an able student, Sienna is best by fears, but also hope for herself and her baby. Marilyn joins the class under protest. Tired of living with a dysfunctional family, she is surprised when the course becomes a catalyst for change in her own life and the lives of others. As the weeks go by, Vivian's old classroom confidence returns but when daughter Clodagh has a crisis of her own, Vivian and Dave must pull together to help her.
January 7, 2025
Another wonderful example of Esther Campion's writing talent and story telling.... unfolding as you read!
I really enjoyed reading it! The author really brings the characters to life, each with their own example of 'life drama', yet interwoven seamlessly, with the main 'Main Character', Vivian's, personal life drama.... through the medium of their Writing Class!
A great novel..... beautifully told!
A feature of this novel is that the whole panoply of characters really did 'come to life', each with their own life drama, some happier than others, who come together, as strangers, to share the need to write, with different backgrounds, ages and personal circumstances, but who gel and support each other to progress, improve and make important life decisions, during their few weeks of a Writing Course and beyond!
I greatly enjoyed this novel and recommend that others read it!
I would love to see a follow up novel, set perhaps five to ten years from where this one ends, just to see if the characters' dreams, ambitions and yearnings..... come true! A sort of 'Writing Class Reunion!
No pressure on the author there ..... then!
Read this book! It is worth it!
I really enjoyed reading it! The author really brings the characters to life, each with their own example of 'life drama', yet interwoven seamlessly, with the main 'Main Character', Vivian's, personal life drama.... through the medium of their Writing Class!
A great novel..... beautifully told!
A feature of this novel is that the whole panoply of characters really did 'come to life', each with their own life drama, some happier than others, who come together, as strangers, to share the need to write, with different backgrounds, ages and personal circumstances, but who gel and support each other to progress, improve and make important life decisions, during their few weeks of a Writing Course and beyond!
I greatly enjoyed this novel and recommend that others read it!
I would love to see a follow up novel, set perhaps five to ten years from where this one ends, just to see if the characters' dreams, ambitions and yearnings..... come true! A sort of 'Writing Class Reunion!
No pressure on the author there ..... then!
Read this book! It is worth it!
January 24, 2025
Vivian Molloy is alone and feeling it. Her husband of 30 years has left suddenly to “sort some things out”. Having taken early retirement to be with her husband, and embarrassed that their circle of friends know about his seeming abandonment, Vivian is lonely, embarrassed and lost. Out of the blue, she is “asked” (railroaded) into running a ten week writing course at the local library. The group attending the course every Friday morning turn out to be an eclectic group of people, all struggling with their own personal battles. But, within the writing group, connections are made, help and support are given, and several lives are impacted for good amongst the cohort.
There seemed to be a lot of characters in this novel, each with their own network of friends and family, so there were a lot of names and roles to keep track of.
SPOILER…..
That being said, despite an ending that was a little too perfect and just a bit “happily ever after” for literally everyone involved, this was a pleasant read which at least attempted to tackle some serious issues like family violence, learning disabilities, social inequities…etc… 3.5⭐️/5 rounded down. A generally pleasant reading experience.
There seemed to be a lot of characters in this novel, each with their own network of friends and family, so there were a lot of names and roles to keep track of.
SPOILER…..
That being said, despite an ending that was a little too perfect and just a bit “happily ever after” for literally everyone involved, this was a pleasant read which at least attempted to tackle some serious issues like family violence, learning disabilities, social inequities…etc… 3.5⭐️/5 rounded down. A generally pleasant reading experience.
January 28, 2025
Pleasing on many levels but I found the ending disappointing. It felt very much like ends neatly tied up. There is an interesting, believable and wide reaching range of characters with believable outcomes to their various issues and difficulties. The way various human relationships are tackled was very good - but the outcomes were a bit pat. Also because they depended on the same things, things that not all people have in their lives. Problem is there seemed an assumption that if you say 'yes' to life then stuff will sort itself out, but that 'yes' also included an existence in the characters lives of at least one significant, caring other in which that character had absolute trust. That aside, I enjoyed reading it, liked the characters and found really interesting and useful seeing how the author organised and ran a writing class. Being an older woman I also enjoyed the bits and pieces about aging. On a personal note, particularly the writing instructor's relationship with her daughter, as a reader, one I particularly related to re how unexpectedly complicated, difficult but ultimately wonderful it can be.
December 2, 2024
The Writing Class was an engaging story featuring a diverse group of characters brought together by a writing class hosted at the local library. Set in Tasmania, Australia, the book beautifully captured the essence of life in the town, making me feel immersed in its charm.
Vivian: A retired school teacher navigating challenges in her marriage. Initially hesitant to lead the writing class, she grows to love it and her students.
Sienna: A young, new mother trying to rebuild her life after escaping a domestic violence situation. She’s been undermined for so long that her confidence is shattered.
Oscar: Visiting from the mainland to house-sit for his sister, Oscar is recovering from long COVID and searching for a sense of normalcy.
Marilyn: An older woman with grown children, one of whom still lives at home. Her husband is far from supportive, leaving her wanting something more fulfilling.
I loved how these unlikely companions grew to treasure their Friday class, forming meaningful friendships, supporting one another, and finding personal growth through their shared experiences. The sense of community was heartwarming, and it was uplifting to see each character gain something valuable from the class.
While the story included some dramatic moments, their resolutions felt a bit rushed. However, overall, it was a wonderful, heartwarming read that celebrated the power of community and connection.
Vivian: A retired school teacher navigating challenges in her marriage. Initially hesitant to lead the writing class, she grows to love it and her students.
Sienna: A young, new mother trying to rebuild her life after escaping a domestic violence situation. She’s been undermined for so long that her confidence is shattered.
Oscar: Visiting from the mainland to house-sit for his sister, Oscar is recovering from long COVID and searching for a sense of normalcy.
Marilyn: An older woman with grown children, one of whom still lives at home. Her husband is far from supportive, leaving her wanting something more fulfilling.
I loved how these unlikely companions grew to treasure their Friday class, forming meaningful friendships, supporting one another, and finding personal growth through their shared experiences. The sense of community was heartwarming, and it was uplifting to see each character gain something valuable from the class.
While the story included some dramatic moments, their resolutions felt a bit rushed. However, overall, it was a wonderful, heartwarming read that celebrated the power of community and connection.
May 9, 2025
Oh my goodness, what an absolutely fantastic read that was.
Firstly, I love the cover with Dog taking pride of place.
This book covers so many topics in a thoughtful, respectful way.
Domestic violence, sexuality, racism, learning difficulties and long covid to name a few.
I laughed and cried along with all the characters, and felt like I had attended the class with them, getting to know and care about each and every one of them.
Esther's Author's Note detailing how the book came to be, that her plans to teach a writing class over 10 weeks was derailed by covid, and thus this book was born, was very interesting to read about.
I love Esther's writing style, it just flows effortlessly. Her characters are well defined, ordinary, people who are easy to identify with. I would actually like to see a sequel to this book, to see where everyone ends up in 6-12 months time.
I will be sure to read more of Esther's works now that I have discovered her.
Firstly, I love the cover with Dog taking pride of place.
This book covers so many topics in a thoughtful, respectful way.
Domestic violence, sexuality, racism, learning difficulties and long covid to name a few.
I laughed and cried along with all the characters, and felt like I had attended the class with them, getting to know and care about each and every one of them.
Esther's Author's Note detailing how the book came to be, that her plans to teach a writing class over 10 weeks was derailed by covid, and thus this book was born, was very interesting to read about.
I love Esther's writing style, it just flows effortlessly. Her characters are well defined, ordinary, people who are easy to identify with. I would actually like to see a sequel to this book, to see where everyone ends up in 6-12 months time.
I will be sure to read more of Esther's works now that I have discovered her.
February 11, 2025
What a great feel good story set in the gorgeous Devonport region of Tasmania!
Cathy is the powerhouse behind the community programming at the Devonport Library & when she ropes old teaching colleague, Vivian into running a 10 week writing programme little do they realise the ripple effect the class will have.
Vivian relishes teaching especially since she finished work early to transition into retirement with her husband. Who is now AWOL somewhere on the Qld coast. But just how is she going to effectively teach a class to such disparate participants:
Oscar, a long COVID sufferer who is practically illiterate; Sienna, a young mum trying to escape her dire DV situation; Robyn, Rosa, Bjorn & Johnny are all ESL speakers; Amalia, another young mum who just wants a job; and Marilyn, a rough diamond in straitened circumstances who just wants to read her romances in peace.
Cathy is the powerhouse behind the community programming at the Devonport Library & when she ropes old teaching colleague, Vivian into running a 10 week writing programme little do they realise the ripple effect the class will have.
Vivian relishes teaching especially since she finished work early to transition into retirement with her husband. Who is now AWOL somewhere on the Qld coast. But just how is she going to effectively teach a class to such disparate participants:
Oscar, a long COVID sufferer who is practically illiterate; Sienna, a young mum trying to escape her dire DV situation; Robyn, Rosa, Bjorn & Johnny are all ESL speakers; Amalia, another young mum who just wants a job; and Marilyn, a rough diamond in straitened circumstances who just wants to read her romances in peace.
February 17, 2025
After being left by her husand on a weekend away, prematurely retired teacher Vivian is at a loss to what to do with herself now. When she is approached by an old college colleague to teach a writing class to a group of adults wanting to improve their literacy skills, Vivian reluctantly agrees. In this class she gets to know single mum Sienna with a rocky past, avid reader and miserably housebound Marilyn and Oscar, a quiet older gentleman housesitting for his sister after getting a redundancy at work.
Vivian learns that as she is helping her new students, they are bringing a spark back into her life that she thought she had lost.
Vivian learns that as she is helping her new students, they are bringing a spark back into her life that she thought she had lost.
February 21, 2025
I finished the book so there was enough to carry me through; I found the characters mostly interesting and there are some parts relating to relationships, aging, marriage and serious matters which are poignant but parts of the writing are a bit laboured or over explained in a ‘teacher’ tone which I found detracted. There’s a lot of issues and quite a few people which is ok, given that this is about a wide ranging group of people brought together in a class but their serious experiences at times were given a light touch. The context of the library and the townships of Tasmania were well described.
December 15, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and as it is close to my home I knew all the places mentioned. This story is testament to the enormous value of writing, and how it can change lives. Complete strangers drawn together by the desire to improve their language and writing skills are helped through the process by a retired teacher, going through her own troubles. This group worked so well together and I found it a most enjoyable and believable read.
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January 27, 2025Lovely to read a story set in Tasmania, and based around very relatable everyday life. There's something for everyone here, with a raft of POV characters of all ages and situations facing their own challenges. The multiple storylines meant it didn't have the emotional heft I'd have liked; there's some pretty big issues dealt with here, and the fact they were sharing page time caused them to feel a little glossed over. Still a pleasant read.
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