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The Pause
Declan seems to have it all: a family that loves him, friends he’s known for years, a beautiful girlfriend he would go to the ends of the earth for.
But there’s something in Declan’s past that just won’t go away, that pokes and scratches at his thoughts when he’s at his most vulnerable. Declan feels as if nothing will take away that pain that he has buried deep inside for so long. So he makes the only decision he thinks he has left: the decision to end it all.
Or does he? As the train approaches and Declan teeters at the edge of the platform, two versions of his life are revealed. In one, Declan watches as his body is destroyed and the lives of those who loved him unravel. In the other, Declan pauses before he jumps. And this makes all the difference.
One moment. One pause. One whole new life.
From author of The Shadow Girl, winner of the Victorian Premier's Literary Awards 2012 Prize for Writing for Young Adults, comes a breathtaking new novel that will make you reconsider the road you’re travelling and the tracks you’re leaving behind.
But there’s something in Declan’s past that just won’t go away, that pokes and scratches at his thoughts when he’s at his most vulnerable. Declan feels as if nothing will take away that pain that he has buried deep inside for so long. So he makes the only decision he thinks he has left: the decision to end it all.
Or does he? As the train approaches and Declan teeters at the edge of the platform, two versions of his life are revealed. In one, Declan watches as his body is destroyed and the lives of those who loved him unravel. In the other, Declan pauses before he jumps. And this makes all the difference.
One moment. One pause. One whole new life.
From author of The Shadow Girl, winner of the Victorian Premier's Literary Awards 2012 Prize for Writing for Young Adults, comes a breathtaking new novel that will make you reconsider the road you’re travelling and the tracks you’re leaving behind.
319 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2015
29 people are currently reading
1664 people want to read
About the author
John Larkin
54 books67 followersSydney-based author and screenwriter, John Larkin, was born in England but grew up in the western suburbs of Sydney. He has, at various stages of his writing career, supported his habit by working as a supermarket trolley boy, shelf-stacker, factory hand, forklift driver, professional soccer player and computer programmer. He now writes full-time. John has a BA in English Literature and a MA in Creative Writing from Macquarie University. John is currently the Writer-in-Residence at Knox Grammar School and UTS (School of Education).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
May 15, 2021
Actual rating - 4.5 stars
This book gripped me from the very beginning. It was beautiful and not only full of sadness, but joy and laughter too. Declan suffers depression and anxiety, and The Pause explores how mental illness doesn't discriminate. No matter how perfect your life is or what has happened to you, anyone can fall victim.
For a good majority of the novel, we explore what happens if Declan pauses, and doesn't make the jump in front of the oncoming train. It's absolutely heart wrenching and there are so many parts in regards to depression that resonated with me. While some of the writing may seem a tad frantic or weirdly jumbled, it made perfect sense as it came straight from Declan's confused thoughts about his depression after coming to terms that he has it. The Pause doesn't try and gloss over the importance of medication as well, in fact it's encouraged and portrayed in a positive light, which is something you don't really see in YA and is something that really needs to change!
"That's the thing when your mind cracks. You don't know that it's cracked because the very thing that lets you know you have a cracked mind is the very thing that's cracked"
I really loved Declan's character, his struggle was so raw, yet he had his many good days to accompany his bad ones. Which is exactly how depression can be. You may not feel like shit all the time, and because of this, some people may not be taken seriously. The dialogue made me laugh several times throughout and John Larkin has a talent for blending something as serious and horrible as suicide with laughter and light heartedness.
The relationships with Declan and his family was really well done. His family is dysfunctional in all sorts of ways, and I'm pretty sure it was heavily implied his sister had ADD or something similar, but the banter between Declan and his father and tender relationship between him and his mother brought so much love and happiness into this novel, it made it a joy to read despite the subject matter.
This novel gave me so many mixed emotions. More than twice, I managed to tuck away the fact that this was a novel about suicide but would then remember at the end of a particularly happy chapter that Declan was more or less dead, and would end up crying for ten minutes because I didn't want it to be true. At one point towards the end, I ended up putting the book down and cried on my boyfriend's shoulder while I tried to explain to him what was happening. I was SO attached to these characters and I got incredibly attached to Declan's story. His girlfriend/love, Lisa was written gorgeously and their relationship was tender and beautiful. My heart ached for her and she, like Declan, made me laugh and made me cry.
Oh, and for all you Aussies out there, John Larkin is an Australian author and Declan's story is set in Sydney, so there are lots of bits and pieces that will make you smile. My personal favourites were the jabs at Tony Abbott and bigoted bogans in general (particularly in reference to the bigot's opinions on "boat people", seeing a character have such a strong opinion on this issue was fantastic). Oh, and also Declan's career list! Hilarious.
My only qualm with The Pause was how much their Dad was picked on in the family (the poor guy couldn't catch a break), but this was pretty minor and really didn't annoy me for the most part!
I feel like I've really struggled to put my feelings about this book into words. I loved pretty much everything about it, and yet this review has probably done nothing to convince you to read it a hope you go out and buy this immediately because it was such an experience all the way through. Regardless of whether or not you've had experience with mental illness, I highly recommend this book. The Pause is a heart wrenching novel which will make you cry, but also heartwarming enough to make you laugh in all the right moments.
This book gripped me from the very beginning. It was beautiful and not only full of sadness, but joy and laughter too. Declan suffers depression and anxiety, and The Pause explores how mental illness doesn't discriminate. No matter how perfect your life is or what has happened to you, anyone can fall victim.
For a good majority of the novel, we explore what happens if Declan pauses, and doesn't make the jump in front of the oncoming train. It's absolutely heart wrenching and there are so many parts in regards to depression that resonated with me. While some of the writing may seem a tad frantic or weirdly jumbled, it made perfect sense as it came straight from Declan's confused thoughts about his depression after coming to terms that he has it. The Pause doesn't try and gloss over the importance of medication as well, in fact it's encouraged and portrayed in a positive light, which is something you don't really see in YA and is something that really needs to change!
"That's the thing when your mind cracks. You don't know that it's cracked because the very thing that lets you know you have a cracked mind is the very thing that's cracked"
I really loved Declan's character, his struggle was so raw, yet he had his many good days to accompany his bad ones. Which is exactly how depression can be. You may not feel like shit all the time, and because of this, some people may not be taken seriously. The dialogue made me laugh several times throughout and John Larkin has a talent for blending something as serious and horrible as suicide with laughter and light heartedness.
The relationships with Declan and his family was really well done. His family is dysfunctional in all sorts of ways, and I'm pretty sure it was heavily implied his sister had ADD or something similar, but the banter between Declan and his father and tender relationship between him and his mother brought so much love and happiness into this novel, it made it a joy to read despite the subject matter.
This novel gave me so many mixed emotions. More than twice, I managed to tuck away the fact that this was a novel about suicide but would then remember at the end of a particularly happy chapter that Declan was more or less dead, and would end up crying for ten minutes because I didn't want it to be true. At one point towards the end, I ended up putting the book down and cried on my boyfriend's shoulder while I tried to explain to him what was happening. I was SO attached to these characters and I got incredibly attached to Declan's story. His girlfriend/love, Lisa was written gorgeously and their relationship was tender and beautiful. My heart ached for her and she, like Declan, made me laugh and made me cry.
Oh, and for all you Aussies out there, John Larkin is an Australian author and Declan's story is set in Sydney, so there are lots of bits and pieces that will make you smile. My personal favourites were the jabs at Tony Abbott and bigoted bogans in general (particularly in reference to the bigot's opinions on "boat people", seeing a character have such a strong opinion on this issue was fantastic). Oh, and also Declan's career list! Hilarious.
My only qualm with The Pause was how much their Dad was picked on in the family (the poor guy couldn't catch a break), but this was pretty minor and really didn't annoy me for the most part!
I feel like I've really struggled to put my feelings about this book into words. I loved pretty much everything about it, and yet this review has probably done nothing to convince you to read it a hope you go out and buy this immediately because it was such an experience all the way through. Regardless of whether or not you've had experience with mental illness, I highly recommend this book. The Pause is a heart wrenching novel which will make you cry, but also heartwarming enough to make you laugh in all the right moments.
March 28, 2015
John Larkin spent some time teaching writing at my school (Oakhill College) last year. Not only is he bloody hilarious he is also an amazing teacher. I never thought that I’d find writing interesting till I met him – thanks, sir if you read this. He was really honest about the trouble he went through, spending time in a mental hospital and everything and wasn’t ashamed of it or anything like that. Someone on here wrote that he borrowed the aunt that abuses Declan from the Perks of Being a Wallflower. That’s BS. Mr L was abused by his aunt when he was six. That’s why he was able to write about it so openly and accurately. I love Shadow Girl (read it about ten times) but he said that the Pause was going to be really different because Shadow Girl was a thriller but the Pause was going to be more internal which having now read it is def true. I absolutely love the Pause (maybe even more than Shadow Girl) and not just because Mr L wrote it either. I love it because it’s true and honest. And I know if I go thru bad times I will read it again and again and again. Awesome.
March 26, 2015
A wonderfully inspiring and hopeful book that will resonate with you long after the final page.
A thoughtful and intelligent story dealing with mental health. 17 year old Declan is a sensitive normal teenager who faces some trials in life that seem over whelming. His story is all about asking for help and understanding that even though the bad times are bad, there is always hope and light on the horizon.
I loved this book. Teens will love this book and hopefully will remind readers that there is always hope, no matter how cliche this sounds.
(Thank you to Penguin Random House for my ARC on Netgalley for a fair and honest review).
A thoughtful and intelligent story dealing with mental health. 17 year old Declan is a sensitive normal teenager who faces some trials in life that seem over whelming. His story is all about asking for help and understanding that even though the bad times are bad, there is always hope and light on the horizon.
I loved this book. Teens will love this book and hopefully will remind readers that there is always hope, no matter how cliche this sounds.
(Thank you to Penguin Random House for my ARC on Netgalley for a fair and honest review).
February 8, 2015
This once taboo subject has now been presented to me to review by most Australian publishers in the first few months of this year. I was somewhat emotionally drained even though some have been exceptional and so found it hard to start reading "the Pause"
I'm sure glad I did !
It is brilliant, occasionally a little preachy, but still brilliant.
It's time to start talking about suicide, not glorify it but show it for what it is, a total waste!
We need to tell people in need to pause,that they are worth it and we need them.
A promo for this book suggested that "this book could save lives"
I am always prepared to stick my neck out so here goes "this book WILL save lives" well done John Larkin.
I'm sure glad I did !
It is brilliant, occasionally a little preachy, but still brilliant.
It's time to start talking about suicide, not glorify it but show it for what it is, a total waste!
We need to tell people in need to pause,that they are worth it and we need them.
A promo for this book suggested that "this book could save lives"
I am always prepared to stick my neck out so here goes "this book WILL save lives" well done John Larkin.
March 29, 2015
Once again I am rendered speechless by a John Larkin book. This deserves so much more than 5 stars. It had me laughing so much my stomach hurt and I couldn't drink anything while reading for fear i would snort it out my nose. All I can say is, you NEED to read this book. Everyone needs to read this book if just to appreciate life.
September 2, 2016
”When your mind cracks and your nerve endings are rupturing, it’s weird how grey everything looks, even on the most perfect days.”
***4.5 STARS***
Trigger Warning - Abuse and Suicide.
The Pause is a story that follows a boy named Declan who has recently been through a difficult time, this results in Declan attempting suicide. However, this story follows two paths one is if Declan had gone along with it. The other is his life if he had paused. This story makes you laugh (Declan’s mum is my favourite character ever), makes you cry and definitely makes you appreciate the little things in life.
The Pause definitely took me for a ride with my emotions. One second I would be laughing at a comment made by Declan’s mum and the next it’d be a different story. I feel like I enjoyed this book so much because it has similar aspects to a movie (also a book i believe) known as It’s Kind of a Funny Story which to this day is one of my favourite movies to watch. In this book you meet two of Declan’s friends known as Chris and Maaaate (Yes it has to be Maaaate, read and you’ll understand), they’re funny characters and I enjoyed them a lot. Lisa is also a key character in this book but i don’t want to say much about her because i don’t want to spoil aspects, basically she is Declan’s girlfriend and both of them have their own struggles.
Declan: The whole book is written from his perspective while the ‘if he paused’ chapters definitely outweighed the ‘if he jumped’ chapters it was needed in order to understand why Declan wanted to in the first place. I enjoyed his character and how a sudden moment of stopping made him realise that life is more than just that one bad thing that happened, a lot more. I think his story and character just gives off a positive message to a lot of people and I just really appreciate it.
Overall, i enjoyed this book and it was definitely a slightly heavy read mood wise but the comedic aspects intertwined into the writing helped. Definitely open to reading more of John Larkin’s books in the future!
***4.5 STARS***
Trigger Warning - Abuse and Suicide.
The Pause is a story that follows a boy named Declan who has recently been through a difficult time, this results in Declan attempting suicide. However, this story follows two paths one is if Declan had gone along with it. The other is his life if he had paused. This story makes you laugh (Declan’s mum is my favourite character ever), makes you cry and definitely makes you appreciate the little things in life.
The Pause definitely took me for a ride with my emotions. One second I would be laughing at a comment made by Declan’s mum and the next it’d be a different story. I feel like I enjoyed this book so much because it has similar aspects to a movie (also a book i believe) known as It’s Kind of a Funny Story which to this day is one of my favourite movies to watch. In this book you meet two of Declan’s friends known as Chris and Maaaate (Yes it has to be Maaaate, read and you’ll understand), they’re funny characters and I enjoyed them a lot. Lisa is also a key character in this book but i don’t want to say much about her because i don’t want to spoil aspects, basically she is Declan’s girlfriend and both of them have their own struggles.
Declan: The whole book is written from his perspective while the ‘if he paused’ chapters definitely outweighed the ‘if he jumped’ chapters it was needed in order to understand why Declan wanted to in the first place. I enjoyed his character and how a sudden moment of stopping made him realise that life is more than just that one bad thing that happened, a lot more. I think his story and character just gives off a positive message to a lot of people and I just really appreciate it.
Overall, i enjoyed this book and it was definitely a slightly heavy read mood wise but the comedic aspects intertwined into the writing helped. Definitely open to reading more of John Larkin’s books in the future!
February 24, 2015
Declan is a teenager like many that suffer from anxiety and depression. The obvious escape is to do the unthinkable. John Larkin weaves humour and humanity into this story of self-examination and asking what if? Beautifully written yet gripping till the end. I hope it ends up on high school required reading lists.
March 16, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Declan is a teenage boy suffering after a forced split with the girlfriend he adores. He is unable to deal with the depression and anxiety resulting from the situation and one morning he is presented with the opportunity to end all the pain. But does he take it?
Larkin shows us both eventualities, and we see Declan come to terms with each decision – even in ‘non-space’. Suicide is a sensitive and emotive topic, yet Larkin manages to create story that is uplifting and sweet. Despite being a good tale, the book also presents the message that suicide is final and impacts many people in many ways....
See the full review at Bookworld
Declan is a teenage boy suffering after a forced split with the girlfriend he adores. He is unable to deal with the depression and anxiety resulting from the situation and one morning he is presented with the opportunity to end all the pain. But does he take it?
Larkin shows us both eventualities, and we see Declan come to terms with each decision – even in ‘non-space’. Suicide is a sensitive and emotive topic, yet Larkin manages to create story that is uplifting and sweet. Despite being a good tale, the book also presents the message that suicide is final and impacts many people in many ways....
See the full review at Bookworld
March 30, 2015
This was a wonderful read. The Pause is about a suicidal teenager and his recovery which spans over about 20 years. It takes you through his journey, childhood, adulthood, and his pause. This book will help raise self-awareness for suicide and self-harm. It was emotional, heartfelt and as John Larkin always does it, filled with a quite a few laughs. John manages to keep this book spell-binding, powerful, soul-stiring and as always humorous. I loved this entertaining and tear spilling book as well as number 1 fan of the shadow girl by John Larkin. Fantastic job!
February 9, 2015
Great book! Based in Sydney, Australia. The story follows the what-if's of suicide, and spans over the course of more than 20 years.
It explains that you don't need a 'real' reason t be depressed, that anything can be a trigger. Great book. No discrimination.
The cover doesn't really explain what the book is about, but I hope someone who needs a bit of help picks this up.
It explains that you don't need a 'real' reason t be depressed, that anything can be a trigger. Great book. No discrimination.
The cover doesn't really explain what the book is about, but I hope someone who needs a bit of help picks this up.
March 28, 2015
I don’t know how the author managed to pull this off, but he did. Unbelievable. Just brilliant.
May 28, 2015
John Larkin has really delivered in his newest work. I couldn't put this down. It was an amazing read and has really touched me, I hope it is talked about enough to do the same to others.
March 15, 2015
Declan is a beautiful, sensitive, caring seventeen year old boy who is loved and cared for by those around him – family, friends and girlfriend. On the surface his life appears perfect. Eventually though, his past (almost being murdered by his aunt – which he has more or less repressed) comes back to haunt him and offer him a way out. When Lisa’s (his girlfriend) mother (the controlling and violent Kraken) breaks up their relationship by sending Lisa back to live with relatives in Hong Kong, Declan’s fragile mental state collapses and he commits suicide. No longer able to endure the agony of anxiety, Declan kills himself in the most violent way. He has neither the ability or will to imagine the impact that his death will have on those around him, he just wants to stop the pain.
Following his death it is Declan himself who is forced to narrate the life he would have lived had he paused.
There are simply not enough words to describe just how wonderful this book is. Beautifully and tenderly written; through Declan, Larkin shows us that life will get tough at times but it will also be wonderful again.
No stranger to the Black Dog himself, Larkin admits to spending time in a psychiatric hospital (you can check out the interview on YouTube), from which he drew inspiration for The Pause. And what inspiration he found. The characters are truly wonderful and bounce off each other in a way that will have you re-reading passages over and over again. The bit about (the psychologist’s) Uncle Jimmy had me crying with laughter. And that's just one of the amazing thing about this book – Larkin weaves his trademark humour through a book about suicide – a book where the protagonist actually does kill himself – and it is not black humour either.
Larkin does depict Declan’s suicide in the most graphic detail (so it’s probably only really suitable for mid to upper high school students) because he wants to show the reader that there’s nothing glamorous about the act. He also creates empathy for those suffering from anxiety and depression because he states in the book that you are trying to process the world through a damaged mind, which is where and why it all falls apart and why we need to seek help and get help for those who might be struggling.
The Pause is without a shadow of a doubt the best book I’ve ever read, and I am going to be reading it over and over again for the rest of my life because aside from being beautifully written, it is, above all else, a book about hope. BTW if you loved Larkin’s last book The Shadow Girl, well (spoiler alert), The Shadow Girl herself makes a cameo appearance in The Pause.
A book that WILL save lives.
Following his death it is Declan himself who is forced to narrate the life he would have lived had he paused.
There are simply not enough words to describe just how wonderful this book is. Beautifully and tenderly written; through Declan, Larkin shows us that life will get tough at times but it will also be wonderful again.
No stranger to the Black Dog himself, Larkin admits to spending time in a psychiatric hospital (you can check out the interview on YouTube), from which he drew inspiration for The Pause. And what inspiration he found. The characters are truly wonderful and bounce off each other in a way that will have you re-reading passages over and over again. The bit about (the psychologist’s) Uncle Jimmy had me crying with laughter. And that's just one of the amazing thing about this book – Larkin weaves his trademark humour through a book about suicide – a book where the protagonist actually does kill himself – and it is not black humour either.
Larkin does depict Declan’s suicide in the most graphic detail (so it’s probably only really suitable for mid to upper high school students) because he wants to show the reader that there’s nothing glamorous about the act. He also creates empathy for those suffering from anxiety and depression because he states in the book that you are trying to process the world through a damaged mind, which is where and why it all falls apart and why we need to seek help and get help for those who might be struggling.
The Pause is without a shadow of a doubt the best book I’ve ever read, and I am going to be reading it over and over again for the rest of my life because aside from being beautifully written, it is, above all else, a book about hope. BTW if you loved Larkin’s last book The Shadow Girl, well (spoiler alert), The Shadow Girl herself makes a cameo appearance in The Pause.
A book that WILL save lives.
April 9, 2015
For every action there is a reaction. For every event there is a fate. This book was fate! If Larkin never personally went to hell and dragged himself out, the reaction of creating this superb book would never have occurred.
The Pause was real, relevant and robust. Real in detailing the reality of depression, suicide and its futility. Relevant in that it doesn't just present this issue but also touches on other relevances, realities and injustices of 21st century life like confronting gender stereotypes, sexuality, immigration and the many forms of abuse. And finally robust in that Larkin has had the balls to voice these issues in a confronting yet paradoxically sensitive manner with a lightness of humour to get the reader through the darkness of the issues' reality. It brought tears of laughter, sadness and warmth. A modern masterpiece. This book will 'pause' time and mend wounds! Congratulations John!
The Pause was real, relevant and robust. Real in detailing the reality of depression, suicide and its futility. Relevant in that it doesn't just present this issue but also touches on other relevances, realities and injustices of 21st century life like confronting gender stereotypes, sexuality, immigration and the many forms of abuse. And finally robust in that Larkin has had the balls to voice these issues in a confronting yet paradoxically sensitive manner with a lightness of humour to get the reader through the darkness of the issues' reality. It brought tears of laughter, sadness and warmth. A modern masterpiece. This book will 'pause' time and mend wounds! Congratulations John!
April 1, 2015
A heartbreaking subject matter is handled with empathy, care and sensitivity by someone who clearly understands what it’s like to suffer from and live with mental illness. I thought the writing was beautiful and also hilarious where appropriate.
What annoys me about my fellow reviewers is that sometimes you just have to butt out. The Pause is about being honest and open about depression, anxiety and suicide and, as Rob said in his review, this book WILL save lives. If you don’t agree then I would respectfully request that for once just STFU and let The Pause get on with the business of saving lives. And while all opinions are valid and of course subjective, you might ask yourself what have you done to try and save lives.
Every teenager, in fact everyone (from high school onwards) should read The Pause. It is so life affirming and beautiful.
What annoys me about my fellow reviewers is that sometimes you just have to butt out. The Pause is about being honest and open about depression, anxiety and suicide and, as Rob said in his review, this book WILL save lives. If you don’t agree then I would respectfully request that for once just STFU and let The Pause get on with the business of saving lives. And while all opinions are valid and of course subjective, you might ask yourself what have you done to try and save lives.
Every teenager, in fact everyone (from high school onwards) should read The Pause. It is so life affirming and beautiful.
March 28, 2015
The Pause is a masterpiece of sustained control. Larkin is aware of both the consequences of mental illness and his own tremendous responsibility of writing a novel about teen suicide (potential copycats). He shows suicide for what it is – a tragic waste. He neither glorifies or underplays it. More than anything The Pause is a novel about hope and possibility. Simply stunning.
April 12, 2015
John Larkin, you are such an inspirational writer. I absolutely loved this book. I got hooked, I was happy, I was sad, I was angry and I was overjoyed. This is a message to anyone who has suicide thoughts - talk to someone. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
Thank you, John Larkin. No book has ever made me feel so many feels before.
Thank you, John Larkin. No book has ever made me feel so many feels before.
June 11, 2017
Trigger warnings: depression, suicide, child abuse, graphic description of jumping in front of a train.
Holy hell. This book was...brutal. I mean, pretty incredible. But really freaking brutal.
This is essentially a Sliding Doors style situation. Declan's life is falling apart, and he decides that the only way forward is to jump in front of a train. But after he does, he sees how his life would have unfolded if he'd paused at the last minute.
I was a liiiiittle concerned about how this was going to deal with mental illness, but I think it did a pretty damned good job of dealing with toxic masculinity and the idea that men need to bottle everything up or they're not manly. I think it did a solid job of demonstrating that while from the outside, it can look like someone is overreacting to something relatively small, but there's actually far more going on that you're not seeing.
Like when you first start reading this, it's like "Declan. Honey. Lisa's plane could have been delayed. She might not have phone reception. Maybe her phone's out of battery. Maybe her mother - who you know is batshit crazy - took her phone or her SIM card. JUST. WAIT. A. LITTLE. LONGER." But the more you read, the more you realise that the whole situation with Lisa was the tip of the iceberg and that he actually had about ten years worth of mental health issues that have built up and built up and built up with him never feeling like he can say anything to anyone.
So yeah. I was a little bit scared going into this. But it definitely delivered.
Holy hell. This book was...brutal. I mean, pretty incredible. But really freaking brutal.
This is essentially a Sliding Doors style situation. Declan's life is falling apart, and he decides that the only way forward is to jump in front of a train. But after he does, he sees how his life would have unfolded if he'd paused at the last minute.
I was a liiiiittle concerned about how this was going to deal with mental illness, but I think it did a pretty damned good job of dealing with toxic masculinity and the idea that men need to bottle everything up or they're not manly. I think it did a solid job of demonstrating that while from the outside, it can look like someone is overreacting to something relatively small, but there's actually far more going on that you're not seeing.
Like when you first start reading this, it's like "Declan. Honey. Lisa's plane could have been delayed. She might not have phone reception. Maybe her phone's out of battery. Maybe her mother - who you know is batshit crazy - took her phone or her SIM card. JUST. WAIT. A. LITTLE. LONGER." But the more you read, the more you realise that the whole situation with Lisa was the tip of the iceberg and that he actually had about ten years worth of mental health issues that have built up and built up and built up with him never feeling like he can say anything to anyone.
So yeah. I was a little bit scared going into this. But it definitely delivered.
April 12, 2015
Suicide in young people is real so let's talk about it, let's get it out there. No more brushing it under the carpet. Every school should have the topic of youth suicide and mental illness as part of their curriculum. This brilliantly written book tackles these very subjects.
The protagonist Declan is a wonderful character. I wanted to wrap my arms around him and keep him safe. I have known kids like Declan. Sensitive, caring souls who need to know.... they are worth it. This message is repeated throughout the book.
John Larkin is a very talented writer. He had me laughing and crying through the pages. Johns own battle with mental illness is well documented so who better to write about this subject?
Spread the word about "The Pause". Tell your friends, family, colleagues even complete strangers. This book is so worth it.
The protagonist Declan is a wonderful character. I wanted to wrap my arms around him and keep him safe. I have known kids like Declan. Sensitive, caring souls who need to know.... they are worth it. This message is repeated throughout the book.
John Larkin is a very talented writer. He had me laughing and crying through the pages. Johns own battle with mental illness is well documented so who better to write about this subject?
Spread the word about "The Pause". Tell your friends, family, colleagues even complete strangers. This book is so worth it.
May 26, 2015
One moment. One pause. One decision to read a great book.
Two versions of your life are revealed. In one, you never read this book. You don't experience the joy of reading a book set in Sydney, Australia, of actually seeing a diverse cast of characters (Italian/Irish protagonist, Chinese and Korean best friends, girlfriend from Hong Kong), of an honestly written book about how one choice changes everything.
In the other, you pause and grab the book. This extremely underrated gem of a book, as most Australian YA novels are. A book with a very jumpy timeline that nevertheless suits the very candid tone of the narration. A book where it almost sounds like a friend who's telling you a story and has to keep going back to tell you background he's forgotten.
So, yeah, it gets a little preachy at times, with constant references to the "choice" the protagonist has made. But I think that's okay. It's okay to emphasise that life is precious. It's okay for the author to want to empower others who suffer from depression. It's okay to show that it's okay to reach for help.
And it's okay for you to pause.
Ratings
Overall: 8/10
Plot: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Cover: 3.5/5
Two versions of your life are revealed. In one, you never read this book. You don't experience the joy of reading a book set in Sydney, Australia, of actually seeing a diverse cast of characters (Italian/Irish protagonist, Chinese and Korean best friends, girlfriend from Hong Kong), of an honestly written book about how one choice changes everything.
In the other, you pause and grab the book. This extremely underrated gem of a book, as most Australian YA novels are. A book with a very jumpy timeline that nevertheless suits the very candid tone of the narration. A book where it almost sounds like a friend who's telling you a story and has to keep going back to tell you background he's forgotten.
So, yeah, it gets a little preachy at times, with constant references to the "choice" the protagonist has made. But I think that's okay. It's okay to emphasise that life is precious. It's okay for the author to want to empower others who suffer from depression. It's okay to show that it's okay to reach for help.
And it's okay for you to pause.
Ratings
Overall: 8/10
Plot: 4/5
Romance: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Cover: 3.5/5
April 28, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book by John Larkin. I felt he encapsulated the mind of a teenage boy in the midst of an angste-ridden crisis perfectly. What I cannot understand is how this work is not getting more press!! Teenage suicide, and suicide in general as well as mental health issues need to be covered within our education system. This book does not condone suicide, but rather presents a person in anguish, who 'paused' and thus changed his life forever. John Larkin, once again, shows us an insight into his witty, clever mind - but does not belittle the topic. Larkin more so makes the topic understandable to an audience who would be likely to sweep this subject under the carpet. A must read for persons over the age of 13!
September 29, 2015
one moment. one pause. one whole new life.
I really enjoyed this book a nice quick read but it was enjoyable I couldn't put it down so that's a good thing that I love in books.
the main character Declan is complex and a total mystery at the beginning of the book were you don't know what events lead him to end his life. the story soon reveals itself and I come to terms on what lead Declan to want to end his life. I love the way the author wrote from the past and present so I got an insight of what happened and all the pieces of the puzzle fitted perfectly together.
I enjoyed this book, a topic that is close to my heart, it was real and honest and spoke to me on so many different levels.
I really enjoyed this book a nice quick read but it was enjoyable I couldn't put it down so that's a good thing that I love in books.
the main character Declan is complex and a total mystery at the beginning of the book were you don't know what events lead him to end his life. the story soon reveals itself and I come to terms on what lead Declan to want to end his life. I love the way the author wrote from the past and present so I got an insight of what happened and all the pieces of the puzzle fitted perfectly together.
I enjoyed this book, a topic that is close to my heart, it was real and honest and spoke to me on so many different levels.
August 10, 2015
Remarkable book. Lovely writing for older adolescents with strong narrative and interest for upper middle school and high school readers.
The real power of this book, however, is what it has to say about suicide. Always such a difficult topic, Larkin manages to be frank but also hopeful. He writes to help. I really want to know what our school counsellors think, but I feel this book might help keep kids alive - and that's a remarkable thing for a book to be able to do.
The real power of this book, however, is what it has to say about suicide. Always such a difficult topic, Larkin manages to be frank but also hopeful. He writes to help. I really want to know what our school counsellors think, but I feel this book might help keep kids alive - and that's a remarkable thing for a book to be able to do.
July 23, 2016
Wow! There isn’t many times when you read a book and it completely realigns you as a person. This is one of those books. I’ve never read anything like this, particularly as it’s primarily a YA book that deals with suicide, relationships, love and the “what-ifs” in life. I thoroughly recommend this book to all. What a book! Wow.
April 1, 2015
3.5 Stars
I received a digital copy of this title from the publisher via Netgalley.
Ten Second Synopsis:
At a singular moment in time, Declan's life could go two ways. This tale explores what would happen for each choice.
This book is based upon an incredibly simple, yet vitally important concept: that when it comes to mental illness and decisions made when not in one’s right mind, a moment can make all the difference. Undeniably, this is something that young people, with their still-developing brains and lack of life experience, can find difficult to grasp and it is the key to overcoming the feelings of desperation that can lead to an individual making a tragic and irreversible decision. Larkin has done a great service here in addressing that important technique for staving off poor decision-making when under the influence of depression or anxiety – just wait a moment. Okay? Now wait for five minutes. Great. Now another five. If we can extend those pauses out just enough, chances are the emotions will change, the pressure will pass and there is now a window of opportunity for help to be sought and given.
Apart from the general premise on which the book is based, Larkin has done a fantastic job of creating a main character that is, in a sense, an everyman, albeit a reasonably well-off and entitled everyman. Declan is a pretty ordinary teenager who is driven to what he does after the loss of what – in the moment – he believes is his true love. To an adult reader this might seem a bit over the top, but I think Larkin has pitched this just right for reaching a younger audience, for whom events such as this really do seem like the end of the world.
I did find the tone of the writing to be a little didactic at times. After introducing the pivotal decision that Declan makes early in the narrative, the story splits into a hypothetical timeline in which Declan’s story is played out, with some interjections from the Declan who didn’t Pause (essentially, Declan the dead). These interjections are good reminders to the reader, but are of the “Isn’t Declan’s life going well? Oh wait, it’s not, he’s really dead” variety which seemed a little too crudely executed for my tastes.
While I did generally think Declan was a likeable and relatable character there were a few events in the book that made me dislike him, and thus reduced my sympathy for him considerably. Firstly, his mum is a bit of a self-righteous pill who spends pretty much the whole book being rude and dismissive to her husband, while encouraging her son to do the same. Then about halfway through the book , there is a scene in which Declan complains about the overseas holidays that his father makes them go on. It was at this point that I actually said out loud (to a few odd sideways glances) “Oh you don’t like going on a free annual overseas holiday? Allow me to call you a waaaambulance! Would you like some cheese with that (white) whine?”
Needless to say, it did shift my perspective on Declan away from “suffering teen who needs care and assistance” and toward “entitled North Shore wanker who needs a good kick up the arse”.
There are two things that this book does that sets it apart from other books about teens getting over mental health issues. Firstly, it projects Declan’s hypothetical timestream way into the future. The imagined storyline doesn’t just end with Declan getting over the issues that caused his breakdown and (possible) suicide, but pushes things out even further to hypothetical-Declan in his 20s. I found this really original as it gives a sense of how issues from around the time of his mental breakdown affect his life as an adult.
The other unusual thing that this book does, compared with others of its ilk, is address the issues that the adults in Declan’s life are having that contribute in part to Declan’s breakdown and the way in which he recovers. This allowed for growth from a lot of the characters in the book, rather than just the main character, which is often the case with YA books generally.
All in all, I felt that this is an important read for those in the target age bracket. While I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would, and found some of the events a bit contrived, I did appreciate the originality of the format and concept and I think Larkin has produced a very readable narrative that is going to be a hugely helpful contribution as a conversation starter about mental health and suicide for young people and those who work with them.
If you are a teen or new adult, I would recommend reading it and passing it on to your friends. If you are an adult, I would recommend reading it and passing it on to your young people.
I received a digital copy of this title from the publisher via Netgalley.
Ten Second Synopsis:
At a singular moment in time, Declan's life could go two ways. This tale explores what would happen for each choice.
This book is based upon an incredibly simple, yet vitally important concept: that when it comes to mental illness and decisions made when not in one’s right mind, a moment can make all the difference. Undeniably, this is something that young people, with their still-developing brains and lack of life experience, can find difficult to grasp and it is the key to overcoming the feelings of desperation that can lead to an individual making a tragic and irreversible decision. Larkin has done a great service here in addressing that important technique for staving off poor decision-making when under the influence of depression or anxiety – just wait a moment. Okay? Now wait for five minutes. Great. Now another five. If we can extend those pauses out just enough, chances are the emotions will change, the pressure will pass and there is now a window of opportunity for help to be sought and given.
Apart from the general premise on which the book is based, Larkin has done a fantastic job of creating a main character that is, in a sense, an everyman, albeit a reasonably well-off and entitled everyman. Declan is a pretty ordinary teenager who is driven to what he does after the loss of what – in the moment – he believes is his true love. To an adult reader this might seem a bit over the top, but I think Larkin has pitched this just right for reaching a younger audience, for whom events such as this really do seem like the end of the world.
I did find the tone of the writing to be a little didactic at times. After introducing the pivotal decision that Declan makes early in the narrative, the story splits into a hypothetical timeline in which Declan’s story is played out, with some interjections from the Declan who didn’t Pause (essentially, Declan the dead). These interjections are good reminders to the reader, but are of the “Isn’t Declan’s life going well? Oh wait, it’s not, he’s really dead” variety which seemed a little too crudely executed for my tastes.
While I did generally think Declan was a likeable and relatable character there were a few events in the book that made me dislike him, and thus reduced my sympathy for him considerably. Firstly, his mum is a bit of a self-righteous pill who spends pretty much the whole book being rude and dismissive to her husband, while encouraging her son to do the same. Then about halfway through the book , there is a scene in which Declan complains about the overseas holidays that his father makes them go on. It was at this point that I actually said out loud (to a few odd sideways glances) “Oh you don’t like going on a free annual overseas holiday? Allow me to call you a waaaambulance! Would you like some cheese with that (white) whine?”
Needless to say, it did shift my perspective on Declan away from “suffering teen who needs care and assistance” and toward “entitled North Shore wanker who needs a good kick up the arse”.
There are two things that this book does that sets it apart from other books about teens getting over mental health issues. Firstly, it projects Declan’s hypothetical timestream way into the future. The imagined storyline doesn’t just end with Declan getting over the issues that caused his breakdown and (possible) suicide, but pushes things out even further to hypothetical-Declan in his 20s. I found this really original as it gives a sense of how issues from around the time of his mental breakdown affect his life as an adult.
The other unusual thing that this book does, compared with others of its ilk, is address the issues that the adults in Declan’s life are having that contribute in part to Declan’s breakdown and the way in which he recovers. This allowed for growth from a lot of the characters in the book, rather than just the main character, which is often the case with YA books generally.
All in all, I felt that this is an important read for those in the target age bracket. While I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would, and found some of the events a bit contrived, I did appreciate the originality of the format and concept and I think Larkin has produced a very readable narrative that is going to be a hugely helpful contribution as a conversation starter about mental health and suicide for young people and those who work with them.
If you are a teen or new adult, I would recommend reading it and passing it on to your friends. If you are an adult, I would recommend reading it and passing it on to your young people.
May 27, 2015
This is an important book.
Every book, it goes without saying, is important to its author. I suspect for John Larkin this is the most important book he's written - perhaps the most important he'll ever write. We get a hint why with the knowledge that it took him three years to get the manuscript to a stage he was happy to submit for publication. We receive another indication when we read its dedication – firstly to his children '.., the brightest stars in the darkest night.' and then to his wife '.., for helping me to find my way back into the light.'
In January 2012 Larkin had a complete breakdown and was admitted to a psychiatric hospital. He describes it as '...an awful time in my life.' He left with an ambitious goal for what was to become this novel. He wanted his words to give hope. He wanted it to save lives. This scribe has no doubt that, in the hands of those who need it most, 'The Pause' will indeed save lives. For some those words will be the most important they read in their short, to date, existence.
The book deserves a wider audience, as well, for it shows that even when the darkest thoughts envelope one – so dark that the ultimate price is contemplated, a pause to think, if only for an instant, can drive that destructive urge away. It demonstrates that always, always there are silver linings up ahead.
Coming at it with adult eyes this is far from the perfect product. Clichés abound as do annoying repetitions (every laugh to be had was snorted). The structuring may not work comfortably for some – particularly those who have managed to keep the black dog at bay. I doubt Larkin's effort will make a gong's short-list on literary merit alone. But it is not written for those who are able to look back, but for those unable to see a way forward. This book contains something far more important than literary perfection. It speaks to vulnerable young people, many of whom may be despairing, in a way that connects. Despite its dark themes, it engages in a manner that is downy light, infused with a humour that makes it immensely readable. It is a page turner. 'The Pause' does not shy away from the barriers to happiness that life puts up, but demonstrates that most people have their hearts filled with goodness and they are here to help. In a country, such as Australia, there are plenty of safety nets when the path ahead seems only to be filled with potholes leading to an abyss. 'The Pause' asks that these good souls are looked to for support, for this is a novel full of the possibilities of life.
Its two central characters have a deep and abiding love for each other, despite their terrible situations, past and present. Its no spoiler to say that, against incredible odds, love wins out. It's beside the point whether Declan paused or not before he took that plunge. What is important is the journey he went on after the event.
From my own experience, after forty years in the public education system, I know how important library workers are in schools. Libraries are the refuge of the vulnerable. Therefore those adults in there are the front line in many cases, often taking on the role as counsellor as well as providers and organisers of resources. As I've noted before, these are the people who will know which of their flock would benefit from having this important, uplifting YA book directed their way. Through them John Larkin will succeed.
Every book, it goes without saying, is important to its author. I suspect for John Larkin this is the most important book he's written - perhaps the most important he'll ever write. We get a hint why with the knowledge that it took him three years to get the manuscript to a stage he was happy to submit for publication. We receive another indication when we read its dedication – firstly to his children '.., the brightest stars in the darkest night.' and then to his wife '.., for helping me to find my way back into the light.'
In January 2012 Larkin had a complete breakdown and was admitted to a psychiatric hospital. He describes it as '...an awful time in my life.' He left with an ambitious goal for what was to become this novel. He wanted his words to give hope. He wanted it to save lives. This scribe has no doubt that, in the hands of those who need it most, 'The Pause' will indeed save lives. For some those words will be the most important they read in their short, to date, existence.
The book deserves a wider audience, as well, for it shows that even when the darkest thoughts envelope one – so dark that the ultimate price is contemplated, a pause to think, if only for an instant, can drive that destructive urge away. It demonstrates that always, always there are silver linings up ahead.
Coming at it with adult eyes this is far from the perfect product. Clichés abound as do annoying repetitions (every laugh to be had was snorted). The structuring may not work comfortably for some – particularly those who have managed to keep the black dog at bay. I doubt Larkin's effort will make a gong's short-list on literary merit alone. But it is not written for those who are able to look back, but for those unable to see a way forward. This book contains something far more important than literary perfection. It speaks to vulnerable young people, many of whom may be despairing, in a way that connects. Despite its dark themes, it engages in a manner that is downy light, infused with a humour that makes it immensely readable. It is a page turner. 'The Pause' does not shy away from the barriers to happiness that life puts up, but demonstrates that most people have their hearts filled with goodness and they are here to help. In a country, such as Australia, there are plenty of safety nets when the path ahead seems only to be filled with potholes leading to an abyss. 'The Pause' asks that these good souls are looked to for support, for this is a novel full of the possibilities of life.
Its two central characters have a deep and abiding love for each other, despite their terrible situations, past and present. Its no spoiler to say that, against incredible odds, love wins out. It's beside the point whether Declan paused or not before he took that plunge. What is important is the journey he went on after the event.
From my own experience, after forty years in the public education system, I know how important library workers are in schools. Libraries are the refuge of the vulnerable. Therefore those adults in there are the front line in many cases, often taking on the role as counsellor as well as providers and organisers of resources. As I've noted before, these are the people who will know which of their flock would benefit from having this important, uplifting YA book directed their way. Through them John Larkin will succeed.
May 5, 2015
John Larkin blew me away a few years ago with The Shadow Girl, so I was keen to read this new novel. I was not disappointed.
Declan is a teen who, on the surface, seems to be well-adjusted and living a wonderful life. He has great mates, a loving family and a beautiful girlfriend. There is little to betray what is gong on underneath the surface. When his girlfriend, Lisa, is sent away to Hong Kong, Declan's world unravels. Feeling depressed and in despair, he makes a split-second decision to throw himself in front of a train - and then time separates. In a "Sliding Doors" moment, one version of Declan jumps, and dies. A warning here, the description of his death is graphic and horrific - there is no glossing over what happens to a body when it is hit by a train. This Declan's life ends.
The other version of Declan pauses, just for a second and is pulled back by the concerned people on the platform. They call an ambulance and Declan is taken away for assessment. The rest of the novel follows this "other" Declan - through psychiatric evaluation, trying to rebuild his relationship with his shell-shocked family, and coming to terms with how he ended up depressed enough to contemplate suicide in the first place.
This is a "what if" story, and Larkin tells it with humour and humanity. Declan's parents are flawed, but well-meaning and their relationship gets put under the microscope as much as Declan's life does. As the months pass by, it is clear that there are things in Declan's past that have had a greater influence on him that anyone could have imagined, and that there are things that have been swept under the carpet by everyone around him. As the secrets unfold, you wonder how Declan has held it together for so long, and all the reader's sympathy lies with him, as it should.
I found this an emotional read, particularly having lost a loved one to a similar incident which took Declan's life, but it is well worth the time. John Larkin has written an important book for young adults: about choices; about love; about secrets; and about looking after yourself - telling someone when you are feeling bad, sad or alone.
I really think this book could save a life, if put into the hands of someone who thinks they have no other options. It is a life-affirming story, dark and sorrowful, but full of hope and light too.
For ages 13 and up - I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Declan is a teen who, on the surface, seems to be well-adjusted and living a wonderful life. He has great mates, a loving family and a beautiful girlfriend. There is little to betray what is gong on underneath the surface. When his girlfriend, Lisa, is sent away to Hong Kong, Declan's world unravels. Feeling depressed and in despair, he makes a split-second decision to throw himself in front of a train - and then time separates. In a "Sliding Doors" moment, one version of Declan jumps, and dies. A warning here, the description of his death is graphic and horrific - there is no glossing over what happens to a body when it is hit by a train. This Declan's life ends.
The other version of Declan pauses, just for a second and is pulled back by the concerned people on the platform. They call an ambulance and Declan is taken away for assessment. The rest of the novel follows this "other" Declan - through psychiatric evaluation, trying to rebuild his relationship with his shell-shocked family, and coming to terms with how he ended up depressed enough to contemplate suicide in the first place.
This is a "what if" story, and Larkin tells it with humour and humanity. Declan's parents are flawed, but well-meaning and their relationship gets put under the microscope as much as Declan's life does. As the months pass by, it is clear that there are things in Declan's past that have had a greater influence on him that anyone could have imagined, and that there are things that have been swept under the carpet by everyone around him. As the secrets unfold, you wonder how Declan has held it together for so long, and all the reader's sympathy lies with him, as it should.
I found this an emotional read, particularly having lost a loved one to a similar incident which took Declan's life, but it is well worth the time. John Larkin has written an important book for young adults: about choices; about love; about secrets; and about looking after yourself - telling someone when you are feeling bad, sad or alone.
I really think this book could save a life, if put into the hands of someone who thinks they have no other options. It is a life-affirming story, dark and sorrowful, but full of hope and light too.
For ages 13 and up - I cannot recommend it highly enough.
August 15, 2015
Ugh, I hate to give such a well-intentioned book a terrible rating, but it's just a mess. The lead character, for all his issues, is horribly unsympathetic. The main reason for this is the terrible way he treats his father and his sister, like they aren't cool enough to join the cool gang of him and his mother - seriously, they spend the whole book sneering at them, looking down at them and being condescending towards them. His mother is his enabler, encouraging his bad behaviour, even manipulating her husband and daughter to go on a separate 'family vacation' to the two of them because they're bored by them. This is all meant to be presented as lighthearted and fun, but it really is sociopathic. The "Sliding Doors"-esque split narrative is really only a wish fulfilment of how he wants his life to turn out - not surprisingly, it shows him as the Gary Stu of everyone's life, including getting his girlfriend back after a tragic accident that leaves her paraplegic.
Presumably so she can't run away from him.
The ending is pat, with the lead character deciding wow, everything's okay now, I don't have to suicide la de dah. As if depression can be solved with fantasy and a near death experience.
I'm in the minority, it seems, when it comes to this book. But I just couldn't.
Presumably so she can't run away from him.
The ending is pat, with the lead character deciding wow, everything's okay now, I don't have to suicide la de dah. As if depression can be solved with fantasy and a near death experience.
I'm in the minority, it seems, when it comes to this book. But I just couldn't.
August 28, 2015
This is really a 3.5 star book. There is so much I liked about it- Larkin deals with complex issues like depression and suicide, conflict within families and the trials and tribulations of growing up.And it was light and funny when it needed to be and bitingly intense at times.
There were parts when I felt the plot dragged a bit and the characters felts a bit forced and cliche. It was missing an element of darkness that i feel books like This Is A Funnt Story did better.
I think people who are looking for a plot that meanders and is unexpected will enjoy this book. There are moments of brilliance, but also a lot of ho-hum.
Glad I read it, but also glad it is done.
There were parts when I felt the plot dragged a bit and the characters felts a bit forced and cliche. It was missing an element of darkness that i feel books like This Is A Funnt Story did better.
I think people who are looking for a plot that meanders and is unexpected will enjoy this book. There are moments of brilliance, but also a lot of ho-hum.
Glad I read it, but also glad it is done.
December 16, 2015
I hope this book saves lives. A YA story about a boy called Declan, a girl called Lisa, a train, a pause and suicide. The structure of the book was fascinating. Declan's condition came as rather a surprise but I hesitate to question anything in the book as I suspect it has been written from personal experience. John Larkin is talented to be able to use humour with such content. I wondered why there wasn't more angst or detail after the pause like there was when my nephew jumped in front of a train (hefty guys jumped down too and pulled him away in time) but you'll have to read until the end to discover why. Four and a half stars.
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