What do you think?
Rate this book
Ten Birthdays
‘My heart. My poor heart... I LOVED IT. I loved everything about it, the characters are incredibly realistic and sweet and perfectly imperfect, the writing is exquisite...I WANT MORE! ... This story was truly beautiful. Books are Here for You
There are going to be so many things I wish I could’ve told you in person, Poppy. I won’t get the chance to do that, so perhaps this is my only way...
It’s Poppy Kinsey’s birthday.
She should be blowing out candles and opening presents – but hers falls on the type of heart-wrenching, agonising anniversary she would far rather forget.
The worst day of them all. The day her mother died.
But this year is special because the person she misses most in the world has left her a set of letters, one for each of her next ten birthdays.
As Poppy opens them year by year, she discovers that no matter how tough life gets, her mum will always be by her side, guiding her along the way.
Fans of Cecelia Ahern and S.D. Robertson will love this page turning tear-jerker about making every moment count.
Read what everyone is saying about Ten Birthdays
‘An emotional but uplifting story... This book brought tears, smiles and some laughs. I truly loved it.’ 5* Goodreads Reviewer
‘Warm and heartbreaking and magical. I completely enjoyed this book to bits.’ 5* Kat with the Hat
‘This story was truly beautiful. Sweet, bittersweet, tragic and oh so real, yet funny and full of hope and love.’ Where are all the Books
‘This is one of those books you read that you won’t forget anytime soon...a very heartfelt book that goes through a gambit of emotional highs and lows. The Ten Birthdays blurb promised I would find an emotional, uplifting book about love, loss, and hope and it definitely did just that.’ Near Misses and Awkward Kisses
‘An absolutely gripping read which is quite uplifting...Loved this book...I will definitely be looking out for more from this author.’ Read Along with Sue
‘It was impossible to let go, even for a second. Ten birthdays has touched me enormously. In closing this book, I had only one desire, call my mother. That's what I did. This novel has the gift of making us appreciate those little moments that we share with our loved ones.’ Path of Words
‘Wow! This book! I have read and loved this author's Jessica Daniel series and was looking forward to this and wow! Such a stunning book! Every word perfect and there for a reason. So beautiful. Such amazing writing. LOVED Poppy, her dad, Madeline, Mark and even Freya. I fell in love with the village in Bristol that Poppy, Mark and Freya are from. From the first work to the last, I loved everything about this book. All the characters, the village, this book, will stay with me for a long time. Five stars are not enough for this brilliant masterpiece. One of my favourite reads this year!’ Renita D’Silva
‘Sweet, bittersweet, tragic and oh so real, yet funny and full of hope and love. It was...
There are going to be so many things I wish I could’ve told you in person, Poppy. I won’t get the chance to do that, so perhaps this is my only way...
It’s Poppy Kinsey’s birthday.
She should be blowing out candles and opening presents – but hers falls on the type of heart-wrenching, agonising anniversary she would far rather forget.
The worst day of them all. The day her mother died.
But this year is special because the person she misses most in the world has left her a set of letters, one for each of her next ten birthdays.
As Poppy opens them year by year, she discovers that no matter how tough life gets, her mum will always be by her side, guiding her along the way.
Fans of Cecelia Ahern and S.D. Robertson will love this page turning tear-jerker about making every moment count.
Read what everyone is saying about Ten Birthdays
‘An emotional but uplifting story... This book brought tears, smiles and some laughs. I truly loved it.’ 5* Goodreads Reviewer
‘Warm and heartbreaking and magical. I completely enjoyed this book to bits.’ 5* Kat with the Hat
‘This story was truly beautiful. Sweet, bittersweet, tragic and oh so real, yet funny and full of hope and love.’ Where are all the Books
‘This is one of those books you read that you won’t forget anytime soon...a very heartfelt book that goes through a gambit of emotional highs and lows. The Ten Birthdays blurb promised I would find an emotional, uplifting book about love, loss, and hope and it definitely did just that.’ Near Misses and Awkward Kisses
‘An absolutely gripping read which is quite uplifting...Loved this book...I will definitely be looking out for more from this author.’ Read Along with Sue
‘It was impossible to let go, even for a second. Ten birthdays has touched me enormously. In closing this book, I had only one desire, call my mother. That's what I did. This novel has the gift of making us appreciate those little moments that we share with our loved ones.’ Path of Words
‘Wow! This book! I have read and loved this author's Jessica Daniel series and was looking forward to this and wow! Such a stunning book! Every word perfect and there for a reason. So beautiful. Such amazing writing. LOVED Poppy, her dad, Madeline, Mark and even Freya. I fell in love with the village in Bristol that Poppy, Mark and Freya are from. From the first work to the last, I loved everything about this book. All the characters, the village, this book, will stay with me for a long time. Five stars are not enough for this brilliant masterpiece. One of my favourite reads this year!’ Renita D’Silva
‘Sweet, bittersweet, tragic and oh so real, yet funny and full of hope and love. It was...
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2017
142 people are currently reading
520 people want to read
About the author
Kerry Wilkinson
72 books1,084 followersRecent and upcoming UK releases:
24 October 2023: The Night Of The Sleepover
15 December 2023: After The Sleepover
2024: The Girl On The Side Of The Road
2024: The Missing Body
Kerry Wilkinson has sold more than two million books - and had No.1 crime bestsellers in the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. He has also written two top-20 thrillers in the United States. His book, Ten Birthdays, won the RNA award for Young Adult Novel of the Year in 2018 and Close To You won the International Thriller Award for best ebook in 2020.
As well as his Jessica Daniel series, Kerry has written a trilogy featuring private investigator Andrew Hunter, the Whitecliff series, the Silver Blackthorn trilogy - a fantasy-adventure serial for young adults - plus numerous standalone novels. He has been published around the world in more than a dozen languages.
Originally from the county of Somerset, Kerry spent way too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel'.
When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike, hikes up something, or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
Find out more at: http://kerrywilkinson.com or http://facebook.com/KerryWilkinsonBooks
Find out more at: his website or Facebook
24 October 2023: The Night Of The Sleepover
15 December 2023: After The Sleepover
2024: The Girl On The Side Of The Road
2024: The Missing Body
Kerry Wilkinson has sold more than two million books - and had No.1 crime bestsellers in the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and Singapore. He has also written two top-20 thrillers in the United States. His book, Ten Birthdays, won the RNA award for Young Adult Novel of the Year in 2018 and Close To You won the International Thriller Award for best ebook in 2020.
As well as his Jessica Daniel series, Kerry has written a trilogy featuring private investigator Andrew Hunter, the Whitecliff series, the Silver Blackthorn trilogy - a fantasy-adventure serial for young adults - plus numerous standalone novels. He has been published around the world in more than a dozen languages.
Originally from the county of Somerset, Kerry spent way too long living in the north of England, picking up words like 'barm' and 'ginnel'.
When he's short of ideas, he rides his bike, hikes up something, or bakes cakes. When he's not, he writes it all down.
Find out more at: http://kerrywilkinson.com or http://facebook.com/KerryWilkinsonBooks
Find out more at: his website or Facebook
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
April 24, 2022
We first meet up with sixteen year old Poppy on her birthday, and then again on each successive birthday over a period of ten years - which also happens to be the anniversary of her mother's death.
Each year she is given a posthumous letter from her Mum. (No spoilers here. Read this fabulous, heartwarming book for yourself for those pearls of wisdom.)
Poppy, Freya and Mark have been best friends since grade school. At the start of the novel, Freya and Mark are dating one another, but you soon realize that Poppy and Mark are also attracted to one another. However, they are fiercely loyal to the gang, so they "don't go there."
As they grow older each member of the gang starts to move in different directions: Mark and Freya go to separate colleges and Poppy takes a break from school and finds a job in a cafe. Poppy feels that she needs a break from the gang and her secret feelings about Mark. Over the intervening ten years, these three friends move in and out of each other's lives, but they usually reunite on Poppy's birthday to support her for the opening of each year's letter from her mother. Some of those birthdays were bittersweet: there were missed opportunities, bad timing, quarrels and estrangements. I was ENTHRALLED!
Everything everyone on Goodreads is saying in all the 5-starred reviews about this novel is true, and then some! I could not put this one down and ended up pulling an all-nighter! (I also loved that one of the chapters was set in Toronto - very close to my old childhood neighbourhood.)
What a wonderful "slice of life" novel from the now seasoned mystery writer Kerry Wilkinson. This debut novel is a total departure from his standard (but excellent!) thriller fare. Wilkinson exhibited keen observational skills and an emotional intelligence far beyond his years in this novel. I can't recommend this book enough! I'm sure I will be rereading this one in the years to come!
NOTE: I would label this novel as New Adult (versus young adult). The majority of the novel deals with adult situations and relationship issues.
Each year she is given a posthumous letter from her Mum. (No spoilers here. Read this fabulous, heartwarming book for yourself for those pearls of wisdom.)
Poppy, Freya and Mark have been best friends since grade school. At the start of the novel, Freya and Mark are dating one another, but you soon realize that Poppy and Mark are also attracted to one another. However, they are fiercely loyal to the gang, so they "don't go there."
As they grow older each member of the gang starts to move in different directions: Mark and Freya go to separate colleges and Poppy takes a break from school and finds a job in a cafe. Poppy feels that she needs a break from the gang and her secret feelings about Mark. Over the intervening ten years, these three friends move in and out of each other's lives, but they usually reunite on Poppy's birthday to support her for the opening of each year's letter from her mother. Some of those birthdays were bittersweet: there were missed opportunities, bad timing, quarrels and estrangements. I was ENTHRALLED!
Everything everyone on Goodreads is saying in all the 5-starred reviews about this novel is true, and then some! I could not put this one down and ended up pulling an all-nighter! (I also loved that one of the chapters was set in Toronto - very close to my old childhood neighbourhood.)
What a wonderful "slice of life" novel from the now seasoned mystery writer Kerry Wilkinson. This debut novel is a total departure from his standard (but excellent!) thriller fare. Wilkinson exhibited keen observational skills and an emotional intelligence far beyond his years in this novel. I can't recommend this book enough! I'm sure I will be rereading this one in the years to come!
NOTE: I would label this novel as New Adult (versus young adult). The majority of the novel deals with adult situations and relationship issues.
May 19, 2017
Gosh, I hated to see this end—such a sweet story! I have just recently discovered Kerry Wilkinson as he has within the past year signed on with one of my favorite publishing houses Bookouture. He appears to be quite versatile, writing crime fiction, fantasy, dystopian/science fiction, and now real life stuff. Most of his novels are crime fiction, with two series ongoing. He is really prolific for a younger author; for example, his Jessica Daniel series has eleven installments already. He also has five books coming out in the next year, including four standalones. Ten Birthdays is a nice change of pace for Mr. Wilkinson, something very different from all of his other books. I am a big crime fiction/thriller fan and loved the first book in the Jessica Daniel series. I am also fascinated with authors who can successfully write in different genres so thought I would give this one a go.
The protagonist of Ten Birthdays is Poppy Kinsey, age 16 at the start of the story. This is a shorter novel and consists of 10 chapters, each one focusing on Poppy’s birthday between ages 16 and 25. Poppy’s mum died on her daughter’s 15th birthday. She left Poppy 10 letters, one to be read on each of her next 10 birthdays. What we get are 10 slices of Poppy’s life, each accompanied by a thoughtful note from her deceased mum who continues to guide her daughter with sage advice regarding this difficult thing called life.
It was so fun to watch Poppy grow and mature in her thoughts, her relationships, and her confidence. And to follow her journey with those most important to her—her two best friends, Mark and Freya, and her father. I must say, Mr. Wilkinson does an excellent job portraying thoughts, gestures, and talk of older teens and young women. He nails their emotions beautifully. The author states in a letter to the reader at the end of the book that many of Poppy’s thoughts and experiences are his own, which made the book all that more endearing to me.
One small criticism I have is that I wish the book had been a little longer in order to bring out Poppy’s character just a bit more. I would have liked a little more depth to her thoughts regarding the impact of her mum’s letters, the reasons why she did not embrace her artistic talent early on, and her complex feelings about Mark. But again, we are dealing with one day a year in 10 years of Poppy’s life, and I respect that this format does not lend to maximal character development.
Overall, this little tale was a joy to read. I am smiling from ear to ear with the knowledge that I have a lot of Kerry Wilkinson ahead of me. I plan to read all his thrillers, but would definitely love to see more in the vein of Ten Birthdays! Highly recommended.
Thank you to Net Galley and Bookouture for an electronic copy of this book. The opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
The protagonist of Ten Birthdays is Poppy Kinsey, age 16 at the start of the story. This is a shorter novel and consists of 10 chapters, each one focusing on Poppy’s birthday between ages 16 and 25. Poppy’s mum died on her daughter’s 15th birthday. She left Poppy 10 letters, one to be read on each of her next 10 birthdays. What we get are 10 slices of Poppy’s life, each accompanied by a thoughtful note from her deceased mum who continues to guide her daughter with sage advice regarding this difficult thing called life.
It was so fun to watch Poppy grow and mature in her thoughts, her relationships, and her confidence. And to follow her journey with those most important to her—her two best friends, Mark and Freya, and her father. I must say, Mr. Wilkinson does an excellent job portraying thoughts, gestures, and talk of older teens and young women. He nails their emotions beautifully. The author states in a letter to the reader at the end of the book that many of Poppy’s thoughts and experiences are his own, which made the book all that more endearing to me.
One small criticism I have is that I wish the book had been a little longer in order to bring out Poppy’s character just a bit more. I would have liked a little more depth to her thoughts regarding the impact of her mum’s letters, the reasons why she did not embrace her artistic talent early on, and her complex feelings about Mark. But again, we are dealing with one day a year in 10 years of Poppy’s life, and I respect that this format does not lend to maximal character development.
Overall, this little tale was a joy to read. I am smiling from ear to ear with the knowledge that I have a lot of Kerry Wilkinson ahead of me. I plan to read all his thrillers, but would definitely love to see more in the vein of Ten Birthdays! Highly recommended.
Thank you to Net Galley and Bookouture for an electronic copy of this book. The opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
November 6, 2021
I absolutely loved the way in which "Ten Birthdays" manages to tell both a large and small story. Or maybe that it weaves a broad tapestry made up of what could otherwise seem tiny, perhaps insignificant scenes. But put together they form something warm and heartbreaking and magical.
We watch poppy grow from her late teens into early adulthood, see the way that friendships and relationships grow closer and sometimes further apart, and chronicle her journeys of young adulthood, all woven together by a dingle letter each year penned by her mother for her to open on each of her birthdayd. And this could have been very sad, but it isn't. Through the letters we watch Poppy's mother complete a sort of journey, too, one that feels very satisfying at its conclusion.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
We watch poppy grow from her late teens into early adulthood, see the way that friendships and relationships grow closer and sometimes further apart, and chronicle her journeys of young adulthood, all woven together by a dingle letter each year penned by her mother for her to open on each of her birthdayd. And this could have been very sad, but it isn't. Through the letters we watch Poppy's mother complete a sort of journey, too, one that feels very satisfying at its conclusion.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
March 17, 2017
This was a book I couldn't wait to get into. I love the cover of this it was so inviting to me.
I wondered how the title of the book would tie in with the theme, it wasn't too much of a way into the book when you learn how fitting the this title is.
Poppy lives with her Dad. They seem to have a great relationship I thought.
When Poppy turns 16, her Dad produces a letter from her Mother who died a few years prior. Both of them miss her very much.
Her Moms legacy was for her to open a letter each birthday from there on until the tenth letter had been read.
An absolutely gripping read which is quite uplifting in some respects. How her Mom although wasn't physically there to tell her these things and have a mother and daughter chat, she could still feel 'not alone' and alienated from her dear mom.
Loved this book, made a lovely change from the thrillers I have been reading lately.
I will definitely be looking out for more from this author.
My thanks to Bookoutour via net galley for my copy to read.
I wondered how the title of the book would tie in with the theme, it wasn't too much of a way into the book when you learn how fitting the this title is.
Poppy lives with her Dad. They seem to have a great relationship I thought.
When Poppy turns 16, her Dad produces a letter from her Mother who died a few years prior. Both of them miss her very much.
Her Moms legacy was for her to open a letter each birthday from there on until the tenth letter had been read.
An absolutely gripping read which is quite uplifting in some respects. How her Mom although wasn't physically there to tell her these things and have a mother and daughter chat, she could still feel 'not alone' and alienated from her dear mom.
Loved this book, made a lovely change from the thrillers I have been reading lately.
I will definitely be looking out for more from this author.
My thanks to Bookoutour via net galley for my copy to read.
April 20, 2017
I'm already a fan of Kerry Wilkinson from his Jessica Daniels series. This book was very different. No mystery or suspense, just a really sweet story about a young woman as she becomes an adult. I really enjoyed it. It was very honest and heartwarming. I burned through it in two sittings. The only bad thing about this one... I want more.
It's Poppy's sixteenth birthday, but she doesn't feel like celebrating. It's also the day her mother died a year before. She still has her father and her two best friends, but it's heartbreaking to think she'll never be able to talk to her mother again. While that's true, her mother isn't done talking to her: she's left ten letters to her daughter, intending one to to opened every year for the next ten on her birthday. Full of stories, experience, and advice, they're moving and even funny a lot of the time. We follow Poppy as she reads the letters and her life changes as years pass, friendships change, and the carefree innocence of childhood is left behind. In a way, Poppy's mother is still there, guiding her way.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
It's Poppy's sixteenth birthday, but she doesn't feel like celebrating. It's also the day her mother died a year before. She still has her father and her two best friends, but it's heartbreaking to think she'll never be able to talk to her mother again. While that's true, her mother isn't done talking to her: she's left ten letters to her daughter, intending one to to opened every year for the next ten on her birthday. Full of stories, experience, and advice, they're moving and even funny a lot of the time. We follow Poppy as she reads the letters and her life changes as years pass, friendships change, and the carefree innocence of childhood is left behind. In a way, Poppy's mother is still there, guiding her way.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and Bookouture, thank you! My review is honest and unbiased.
March 16, 2017
Wow! This book! I have read and loved this author's Jessica Daniel series and was looking forward to this and wow! Such a stunning book! Every word perfect and there for a reason. So beautiful. Such amazing writing. LOVED Poppy, her dad, Madeline, Mark and even Freya. I fell in love with the village in Bristol that Poppy, Mark and Freya are from. From the first work to the last, I loved everything about this book. All the characters, the village, this book, will stay with me for a long time. Five stars are not enough for this brilliant masterpiece. One of my favourite reads this year!
December 13, 2017
I really really enjoyed this book! I hated to see this story end, it’s that great!! Every year on Poppy’s birthday she read a letter written by her mom (who had passed away earlier) and I just grew to love Poppy and all of her best friends. This is my first book by Kerry Wilkinson but I love her writing style that I’ve already put 2 more of hers on my TBR list. Highly recommend this one!
May 2, 2017
This was an enjoyable story. Although some may find it emotional in places, especially if you’ve lost a close member of your family, this book was quite a light and easy read.
I loved the idea behind this story, having each chapter as one of Poppy’s birthdays from the age of sixteen, and her receiving a letter from her dead mother on each of her birthdays, providing her with advice and revealing the past. While the idea was a good one, I felt each chapter moving on to the next year made the story feel too choppy and rushed. I wasn’t able to fully connect with the characters, as their lives moved on too quickly for me. Having said that, I did have tears in my eyes at the very end.
I quite liked Poppy, but I really wasn’t keen on Poppy’s best friend, Freya, and wished Poppy would toughen up and get rid of her.
Ten Birthdays put me in mind of Recipes for Melissa, by Teresa Driscoll, which I absolutely loved, but this didn’t quite grip me in the same way. Some readers may find Recipes for Melissa to be too emotional, so if you’re after a lighter, easier read then I definitely recommend Ten Birthdays.
I loved the idea behind this story, having each chapter as one of Poppy’s birthdays from the age of sixteen, and her receiving a letter from her dead mother on each of her birthdays, providing her with advice and revealing the past. While the idea was a good one, I felt each chapter moving on to the next year made the story feel too choppy and rushed. I wasn’t able to fully connect with the characters, as their lives moved on too quickly for me. Having said that, I did have tears in my eyes at the very end.
I quite liked Poppy, but I really wasn’t keen on Poppy’s best friend, Freya, and wished Poppy would toughen up and get rid of her.
Ten Birthdays put me in mind of Recipes for Melissa, by Teresa Driscoll, which I absolutely loved, but this didn’t quite grip me in the same way. Some readers may find Recipes for Melissa to be too emotional, so if you’re after a lighter, easier read then I definitely recommend Ten Birthdays.
October 30, 2021
A feel good novel by author Kerry Wilkinson which made a pleasant change from his normal crime novels.
Poppy Kinsey’s mother died on her fifteenth birthday leaving a massive hole in her life. Twelve months later on her sixteenth birthday her father arranges a surprise party and presents Poppy with ten letters that her mother wrote to her with the instruction that they should be handed over to her on each of her next ten birthdays.
Like a lot of feelgood novels there are lots of flaws in the premise but make good reading only. Hard to believe that she would not want to read all ten letters in one go rather than wait but it makes good reading. The book revolves round each of the birthdays and what is going on at the time of her birthday as well as the new letter. As Poppy gets older we learn how her friendships develops with the other two main characters Mark and Freya.
A feel good read far removed from Kerry Wilkinson’s crime novels but enjoyed all the same.
Poppy Kinsey’s mother died on her fifteenth birthday leaving a massive hole in her life. Twelve months later on her sixteenth birthday her father arranges a surprise party and presents Poppy with ten letters that her mother wrote to her with the instruction that they should be handed over to her on each of her next ten birthdays.
Like a lot of feelgood novels there are lots of flaws in the premise but make good reading only. Hard to believe that she would not want to read all ten letters in one go rather than wait but it makes good reading. The book revolves round each of the birthdays and what is going on at the time of her birthday as well as the new letter. As Poppy gets older we learn how her friendships develops with the other two main characters Mark and Freya.
A feel good read far removed from Kerry Wilkinson’s crime novels but enjoyed all the same.
May 1, 2017
What's not to like about this book, although it's not my usual read, I really enjoyed it. It starts as Poppy turns sixteen, she is given a letter by her dad which was writen by her mother who had died years earlier. He tells her that he has another nine letters to give to her on future birthdays. The letters are an insight into her mothers life offering advice and although Poppy finds the letters deeply upsetting as she really misses her mum but she also finds them a comfort. The story continues with accounts of how Poppy grows up, her friendships, loves and the inevitably mistakes. A very thought provoking read
April 29, 2018
My dearest Poppy, I've wondered for a long time whether I should do this. That this might be a selfish act because I want to somehow live on in your life. I honestly don't know any longer.
* * *
3 / 5
Ten Birthdays is a poignant story about grief and growing older. Poppy Kinsey's mother died on her fifteenth birthday, leaving Poppy and her dad behind to live in a little village just outside Bristol. Poppy's mother left behind ten letters, one for each of Poppy's birthdays. The book follows Poppy through each of these birthdays as she and the people around her grow older and change from year to year.
We were all sixteen once. You should never underestimate the power of simply having fun - especially at your age, before the boring adult stuff catches you up
The idea behind Ten Birthdays is pretty good. Each year Poppy opens a letter on her birthday, full of messages of love from her mother, a story about how her name was chosen, or how her parents met. They also have some reflections of life and thoughtful contemplations. Wrapped around these letters is Poppy's relationship with her father, her best friend Mark, and his girlfriend Freya. Watching the three diverging paths these three young people take is really interesting - they all end up reasonably happy and successful in their own ways, which is absolutely an important message.
Poppy drops out of school at seventeen and whilst Mark and Freya get ready to head off to university she's working as a barista. Mark goes down the conventional route - good degree, gets married to a nice girl and gets a good job. Freya and Poppy have more winding routes to happiness, but all three characters are a joy to follow. They felt like real people even if, and particularly because, they were at times quite dislikeable.
If you love her you should find a way to fix it. That might mean going home. There are always other jobs. There aren't always other people who love you.
The format of Ten Birthdays does come with a few downsides. Because we only ever see one day out of three hundred and sixty five of each year, it's a bit hard to connect with Poppy as a character. The format does make it really nice to watch Poppy as she gets older and you can see the natural changes her personality goes through, so it's great as a sort of character study. But it does make it hard to actually relate to her. The format does also get a bit repetitive by the end - we're always cycling through the "hey, Poppy, happy birthday" and "here's a gift" shindig.
Ten Birthdays is a short read with strong characters. It's a coming-of-age story that's about family, loss, love, and friendship.
My thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for an ARC of this book.
Read this review and more on my blog: https://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.co...
* * *
3 / 5
Ten Birthdays is a poignant story about grief and growing older. Poppy Kinsey's mother died on her fifteenth birthday, leaving Poppy and her dad behind to live in a little village just outside Bristol. Poppy's mother left behind ten letters, one for each of Poppy's birthdays. The book follows Poppy through each of these birthdays as she and the people around her grow older and change from year to year.
We were all sixteen once. You should never underestimate the power of simply having fun - especially at your age, before the boring adult stuff catches you up
The idea behind Ten Birthdays is pretty good. Each year Poppy opens a letter on her birthday, full of messages of love from her mother, a story about how her name was chosen, or how her parents met. They also have some reflections of life and thoughtful contemplations. Wrapped around these letters is Poppy's relationship with her father, her best friend Mark, and his girlfriend Freya. Watching the three diverging paths these three young people take is really interesting - they all end up reasonably happy and successful in their own ways, which is absolutely an important message.
Poppy drops out of school at seventeen and whilst Mark and Freya get ready to head off to university she's working as a barista. Mark goes down the conventional route - good degree, gets married to a nice girl and gets a good job. Freya and Poppy have more winding routes to happiness, but all three characters are a joy to follow. They felt like real people even if, and particularly because, they were at times quite dislikeable.
If you love her you should find a way to fix it. That might mean going home. There are always other jobs. There aren't always other people who love you.
The format of Ten Birthdays does come with a few downsides. Because we only ever see one day out of three hundred and sixty five of each year, it's a bit hard to connect with Poppy as a character. The format does make it really nice to watch Poppy as she gets older and you can see the natural changes her personality goes through, so it's great as a sort of character study. But it does make it hard to actually relate to her. The format does also get a bit repetitive by the end - we're always cycling through the "hey, Poppy, happy birthday" and "here's a gift" shindig.
Ten Birthdays is a short read with strong characters. It's a coming-of-age story that's about family, loss, love, and friendship.
My thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for an ARC of this book.
Read this review and more on my blog: https://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.co...
April 10, 2017
I want to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for my ARC copy for a fair and honest review.
This lovely story is really a 3.5/5, but seeing how Goodreads doesn't allow us to give half stars, I have given it a 4.
This is the story of Poppy Kinsey and really it's her coming of age. Each chapter focuses on each of her birthdays, following the loss of her mother on her 15th birthday, and the letters she receives each year that were written by her mother before her passing.
Poppy survives her coming of age with the help of her 2 best friends Mark and Freya. They get into all sorts of mischief and drama seems to always follow them but they balance out Poppy's steady even-keeled personality.
The letters are a beautiful tribute and the author tied each letter into what was happening at that time in Poppy's life. The 10 letters dole out sage advice that I feel a strong connection to. They were beautifully crafted, offering advice, stories about how her parents had met and so much more. It was lovely to see how Poppy had applied each letter into her everyday life.
This is a lovely and quick read with lots heart on each and every page. I highly recommend taking the time to read this emotion-filled little gem.
This lovely story is really a 3.5/5, but seeing how Goodreads doesn't allow us to give half stars, I have given it a 4.
This is the story of Poppy Kinsey and really it's her coming of age. Each chapter focuses on each of her birthdays, following the loss of her mother on her 15th birthday, and the letters she receives each year that were written by her mother before her passing.
Poppy survives her coming of age with the help of her 2 best friends Mark and Freya. They get into all sorts of mischief and drama seems to always follow them but they balance out Poppy's steady even-keeled personality.
The letters are a beautiful tribute and the author tied each letter into what was happening at that time in Poppy's life. The 10 letters dole out sage advice that I feel a strong connection to. They were beautifully crafted, offering advice, stories about how her parents had met and so much more. It was lovely to see how Poppy had applied each letter into her everyday life.
This is a lovely and quick read with lots heart on each and every page. I highly recommend taking the time to read this emotion-filled little gem.
March 24, 2018
Poppy doesn't want to celebrate her birthday anymore, because it's the day her mother died. However, her father and friends aren't going to let her skip her special day. On her sixteenth birthday they make sure there's a party and Poppy's father has a precious gift for his daughter, a letter from her mother with the promise there will be one for each birthday in the next ten years. What effect will these letters have on Poppy and the way she sees the world?
Poppy has two close friends, Freya and Mark. They're spending all of their time together as teenagers. Later in life they will go their separate ways, but they will always stay in touch. Each year on Poppy's birthday there's a chance for her to catch up with her friends. Mark makes sure there's a special gift each time and Freya provides entertainment, with varying levels of success. Together with her father, her two best friends and the letters Poppy transitions from a teenager into a young woman.
Ten Birthdays is a beautiful impressive story. Poppy has lost her mother at a young age. Her father loves her very much and he tries to make her birthday a joyous occasion, even though it's a difficult day for Poppy. I loved how much he cares about his daughter and that is one of the things that makes the story truly amazing. Poppy is a sweet girl, but she struggles to find her place in life. Freya and Mark seem to know what they want straight away, but for Poppy figuring out what she wants takes some time. I liked this contrast very much, it makes the story interesting and gives it a lot of fabulous layers. I was incredibly curious about the changes each new year would bring in Poppy's life.
Kerry Wilkinson has written a gorgeous moving book. He has a great compelling writing style that made me read the book in one sitting. I loved how heartwarming Poppy's story is. Even though she has no idea what she wants life to bring her Poppy loves the people close to her unconditionally and they feel the same about her. For me that was the biggest strength of this book, it makes the story shine and sparkle. I highly recommend Ten Birthdays, it's a fantastic book.
Poppy has two close friends, Freya and Mark. They're spending all of their time together as teenagers. Later in life they will go their separate ways, but they will always stay in touch. Each year on Poppy's birthday there's a chance for her to catch up with her friends. Mark makes sure there's a special gift each time and Freya provides entertainment, with varying levels of success. Together with her father, her two best friends and the letters Poppy transitions from a teenager into a young woman.
Ten Birthdays is a beautiful impressive story. Poppy has lost her mother at a young age. Her father loves her very much and he tries to make her birthday a joyous occasion, even though it's a difficult day for Poppy. I loved how much he cares about his daughter and that is one of the things that makes the story truly amazing. Poppy is a sweet girl, but she struggles to find her place in life. Freya and Mark seem to know what they want straight away, but for Poppy figuring out what she wants takes some time. I liked this contrast very much, it makes the story interesting and gives it a lot of fabulous layers. I was incredibly curious about the changes each new year would bring in Poppy's life.
Kerry Wilkinson has written a gorgeous moving book. He has a great compelling writing style that made me read the book in one sitting. I loved how heartwarming Poppy's story is. Even though she has no idea what she wants life to bring her Poppy loves the people close to her unconditionally and they feel the same about her. For me that was the biggest strength of this book, it makes the story shine and sparkle. I highly recommend Ten Birthdays, it's a fantastic book.
April 11, 2017
I was a bit worried about the letters because generally in books I skim over journal entries and such. But they were my favorite part of the book, especially her 21st birthday. I felt like I got to know Poppy's mom better than Poppy herself and I cared more about her stories. But I still liked Poppy's plot.
This was an odd way to tell a story, really more befitting for a movie when you never really get inside a character's head anyway. But somehow I still connected to Poppy--I laughed and I cried.
This wasn't a normal book, with an intro and a climax and all that. Honestly, nothing really happened. But at the same time, a world of things happened. And I wanted to be there for every second of it.
I had instant author respect from the first sentence and I was continually impressed throughout.
I liked how Poppy changed over time; she was still recognizable as Poppy but she had lived and grown and learned. I think, I know, it would be hard to write like that--without the exact events between each birthday.
Ten Birthdays is not one of my all time favorite novels, but I'm so glad I picked it up and I would definitely recommend giving it a read.
*I received a review copy from the publisher via NetGalley, all opinions my own.
This was an odd way to tell a story, really more befitting for a movie when you never really get inside a character's head anyway. But somehow I still connected to Poppy--I laughed and I cried.
This wasn't a normal book, with an intro and a climax and all that. Honestly, nothing really happened. But at the same time, a world of things happened. And I wanted to be there for every second of it.
I had instant author respect from the first sentence and I was continually impressed throughout.
I liked how Poppy changed over time; she was still recognizable as Poppy but she had lived and grown and learned. I think, I know, it would be hard to write like that--without the exact events between each birthday.
Ten Birthdays is not one of my all time favorite novels, but I'm so glad I picked it up and I would definitely recommend giving it a read.
*I received a review copy from the publisher via NetGalley, all opinions my own.
April 21, 2017
Wow this book is amazing it had me hooked on the first page, at first I could not understand how the title of the book fitted in the story until it came together as her mum before she passed away 3yrs previous left her legacy by writing letters for the next 10 birthdays for poppy who would have to read one each year.
I loved every character in the story, the letters which her mother wrote you can almost imagine what her voice would sound like if she was reading it out.
Thanks to bookoutour via NetGalley for letting me read this book, looking forward to reading more books from this author.
I loved every character in the story, the letters which her mother wrote you can almost imagine what her voice would sound like if she was reading it out.
Thanks to bookoutour via NetGalley for letting me read this book, looking forward to reading more books from this author.
April 24, 2017
I really enjoyed this story. It is a lovely idea, receiving a letter from a parent each year on your birthday after they have gone. It could very well have ended up being depressing, but the way in which the author tells the story is so well done it warms your heart.
I know some had a problem with the fact that the story goes from one birthday to the next with no 'filler' chapters in between. I, however, thought that this worked really well as I didn't have to wade through anything else. I wanted to read exactly what the author gave me, the letters from each birthday and where Poppy finds herself. I don't feel I missed anything due to the way the book is written as the author took me straight to the nitty gritty.
There is one particular part which sticks out for me. Poppy meets a stranger, Neil, and strikes up a conversation with him. Hearing her talk about both of her friends he tells her "There's no shame in being the glue." He goes on to explain what he means - "So what's wrong with being the person in the middle? The one who has a normal, enjoyable life? Everyone else stumbles from disaster to disaster; shambles to shambles. You're the one who holds it all together." That explains Poppy's place in her friendships perfectly.
This is a lovely read albeit an emotional one at times. Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy.
I know some had a problem with the fact that the story goes from one birthday to the next with no 'filler' chapters in between. I, however, thought that this worked really well as I didn't have to wade through anything else. I wanted to read exactly what the author gave me, the letters from each birthday and where Poppy finds herself. I don't feel I missed anything due to the way the book is written as the author took me straight to the nitty gritty.
There is one particular part which sticks out for me. Poppy meets a stranger, Neil, and strikes up a conversation with him. Hearing her talk about both of her friends he tells her "There's no shame in being the glue." He goes on to explain what he means - "So what's wrong with being the person in the middle? The one who has a normal, enjoyable life? Everyone else stumbles from disaster to disaster; shambles to shambles. You're the one who holds it all together." That explains Poppy's place in her friendships perfectly.
This is a lovely read albeit an emotional one at times. Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy.
April 23, 2017
I first heard of Ten Birthdays from a comment from the author, I quickly checked it out on his website and said I was very interested in this book. I knew going into Ten Birthdays I would need lots of tissues, so with coffee, chocolate, and a box of tissues I began reading, and I did not stop until I had reached the last page.
Imagine your birthday could never be celebrated the same way ever again, that instead of looking forward to your celebrations you dreaded the day. This is the case for Poppy, whos birthday also happens to be the day she lot her Mum. A day spent shopping with friends with hushed conversations between them does not leave Poppy with good feelings, and when she finally makes it hope its clear why, and rather than face the small party, Poppy hides, waiting for everybody to leave. It's then that she receives a belated gift off her Mum, a letter to open for the next ten years worth of birthdays. This was also the time I declared myself gone, and gave up trying to hold back the tears.
Ten birthdays is spread over the course of ten years in Poppy's life, but it's artfully done with quick glimpses into Poppy's birthday celebrations with information on what she has done, what her friends are doing, what shes doing now or next. We see how poppy spends her birthday, decisions she makes and how they affect those around her. We see her growing up, changing jobs, falling in love, and the ups and downs of her friendship with Freya and Mark.
Ten Birthdays is a book that I fell head over heels into, and didn't come up for air. I instantly loved the characters, how their personalities were so different but they were so close. The village Poppy grew up in sounds quaint, and is most definitely a village where everybody knows everybody else and thier business, and I do miss this aspect of my youth.
I don't really want to say too much about Ten Birthdays because this book is just as much of a journey for the reader as it is for Poppy, and I really do want you to take this journey with her.
Final Verdict
Ten Birthdays is a heartfelt journey about loss, love, friendship, and growing up. I loved every minute of this book and can't wait to dive into my own copy again.
Imagine your birthday could never be celebrated the same way ever again, that instead of looking forward to your celebrations you dreaded the day. This is the case for Poppy, whos birthday also happens to be the day she lot her Mum. A day spent shopping with friends with hushed conversations between them does not leave Poppy with good feelings, and when she finally makes it hope its clear why, and rather than face the small party, Poppy hides, waiting for everybody to leave. It's then that she receives a belated gift off her Mum, a letter to open for the next ten years worth of birthdays. This was also the time I declared myself gone, and gave up trying to hold back the tears.
Ten birthdays is spread over the course of ten years in Poppy's life, but it's artfully done with quick glimpses into Poppy's birthday celebrations with information on what she has done, what her friends are doing, what shes doing now or next. We see how poppy spends her birthday, decisions she makes and how they affect those around her. We see her growing up, changing jobs, falling in love, and the ups and downs of her friendship with Freya and Mark.
Ten Birthdays is a book that I fell head over heels into, and didn't come up for air. I instantly loved the characters, how their personalities were so different but they were so close. The village Poppy grew up in sounds quaint, and is most definitely a village where everybody knows everybody else and thier business, and I do miss this aspect of my youth.
I don't really want to say too much about Ten Birthdays because this book is just as much of a journey for the reader as it is for Poppy, and I really do want you to take this journey with her.
Final Verdict
Ten Birthdays is a heartfelt journey about loss, love, friendship, and growing up. I loved every minute of this book and can't wait to dive into my own copy again.
July 25, 2022
A sweet short coming of age story.
August 9, 2017
Ten Birthdays hit a very soft spot in my heart. I too have dealt with grief up close and personal, so I felt even more connected with and her struggle. Her feelings of isolation, her knack for being there for so many people around her, while so few are there to support her. Being the glue can get really difficult. Just because she didn't always need anything in return doesn't mean she didn't deserve it.
As each year went by, the letters delved deeper into what really made her mother tick. What I loved most about it was that although the letters seemed to become more geared to the adult she was becoming, they still held that edge of a mother talking to her baby girl. I found something comforting in this way of marking the passage of time.
I loved how the characters aged, and how their personalities and lifestyles reflected this so well. It's astounding how much one changes from 16-25, and with several key characters involved, I felt this was masterfully related.
The end was a bit contrived, but in that way that leaves you happy, with a warm gooey feeling inside. Cheesy maybe, but oh so good. It was a feeling that just sort of sneaked up me, as I found myself becoming more and more involved with these characters. By the time it was over, I felt comfortable and at home with them, and rather sad to see them go.
~ George, 4 Stars
As each year went by, the letters delved deeper into what really made her mother tick. What I loved most about it was that although the letters seemed to become more geared to the adult she was becoming, they still held that edge of a mother talking to her baby girl. I found something comforting in this way of marking the passage of time.
I loved how the characters aged, and how their personalities and lifestyles reflected this so well. It's astounding how much one changes from 16-25, and with several key characters involved, I felt this was masterfully related.
The end was a bit contrived, but in that way that leaves you happy, with a warm gooey feeling inside. Cheesy maybe, but oh so good. It was a feeling that just sort of sneaked up me, as I found myself becoming more and more involved with these characters. By the time it was over, I felt comfortable and at home with them, and rather sad to see them go.
~ George, 4 Stars
April 18, 2017
I found this to be a very cute story and a quick read. The cover of the book first caught my attention. Once I started reading it I fell in love with the characters.
On each birthday we get a glimpse of Poppy's life. On her sixteenth birthday, Poppy finds out that her mother has written her a letter for her next ten birthdays. Through the letters we learn about Poppy's mom, since she is dead when the book begins. I loved reading about Poppy and what she was up to. I also enjoyed the letters she received from her mom, because they were always what needed to be said at that moment. It showed how much Poppy's dad loved her, he always tried to hand deliver the letters to her and he didn't want to upset his daughter when he started to date. Freya and Mark, Poppy's friends, are central characters throughout the book. The book isn't action packed but centers around friendship and family. I definitely recommend it.
While reading the book I kept thinking that I could see this as a movie. I definitely look forward to reading more books by the author.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author, Kerry Wilkinson, for a free electronic ARC of this novel.
On each birthday we get a glimpse of Poppy's life. On her sixteenth birthday, Poppy finds out that her mother has written her a letter for her next ten birthdays. Through the letters we learn about Poppy's mom, since she is dead when the book begins. I loved reading about Poppy and what she was up to. I also enjoyed the letters she received from her mom, because they were always what needed to be said at that moment. It showed how much Poppy's dad loved her, he always tried to hand deliver the letters to her and he didn't want to upset his daughter when he started to date. Freya and Mark, Poppy's friends, are central characters throughout the book. The book isn't action packed but centers around friendship and family. I definitely recommend it.
While reading the book I kept thinking that I could see this as a movie. I definitely look forward to reading more books by the author.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author, Kerry Wilkinson, for a free electronic ARC of this novel.
May 6, 2017
Heartbreaking and beautiful. A little slow on occasion but nicely written, weaving the elements of Poppy's history into the story. Brought tears to my eyes.
March 17, 2017
Poppy, a soon-to-be-sixteen year old girl, recently lost her mum. And whilst we never find out exactly what happened to her, we do know that she has left Poppy ten letters to remember her by - one intended to read for the next ten of Poppy's birthdays.
As such, we take a look at Poppy from 16 to 26, where each chapter represents a year of Poppy's life, and a new letter to open. I expected the letters to be heart-breaking, hard to read and big tear-jerkers (maybe I was channelling a "PS I love you" vibe!) but actually, Poppy's mum tells her about small things that happened to her in her own life, and almost gives Poppy little pieces of advice rather than making her (and you!) feel sad. She absolutely fills Poppy with a passion to enjoy life, but also not to accept something you're not entirely happy with.
This is by no means a fast-paced or action packed book. In fact, it basically showcases Poppy as a pretty ordinary person going through mundane, ordinary things. But the author does so in such a way that I think most readers could identify with an element of Poppy's life. It might be that relationship that you regretted, that job you couldn't get fulfilled by, losing a family member or watching your friends lives propel forwards as you kind of stand still. I think most people can relate to something that happens to Poppy along the way, however ordinary it might be, and that's what makes this book so gripping when really nothing major actually happens! It's very clever, very powerful and definitely made me feel better about those totally human moments that make each of us feel rubbish from time to time.
This wasn't the emotional rollercoaster I expected; it was better. It's definitely something a bit different from some of the more intense books of this nature.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
As such, we take a look at Poppy from 16 to 26, where each chapter represents a year of Poppy's life, and a new letter to open. I expected the letters to be heart-breaking, hard to read and big tear-jerkers (maybe I was channelling a "PS I love you" vibe!) but actually, Poppy's mum tells her about small things that happened to her in her own life, and almost gives Poppy little pieces of advice rather than making her (and you!) feel sad. She absolutely fills Poppy with a passion to enjoy life, but also not to accept something you're not entirely happy with.
This is by no means a fast-paced or action packed book. In fact, it basically showcases Poppy as a pretty ordinary person going through mundane, ordinary things. But the author does so in such a way that I think most readers could identify with an element of Poppy's life. It might be that relationship that you regretted, that job you couldn't get fulfilled by, losing a family member or watching your friends lives propel forwards as you kind of stand still. I think most people can relate to something that happens to Poppy along the way, however ordinary it might be, and that's what makes this book so gripping when really nothing major actually happens! It's very clever, very powerful and definitely made me feel better about those totally human moments that make each of us feel rubbish from time to time.
This wasn't the emotional rollercoaster I expected; it was better. It's definitely something a bit different from some of the more intense books of this nature.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2019
We first meet Poppy and her friends Freya and Mark on Poppy’s sixteenth birthday. Each chapter takes us as we see Poppy, celebrating each birthday over the next ten years. I absolutely loved this idea and was slightly worried that with jumping a year with each chapter I might feel like I was missing out with certain aspects of her life but I didn’t have to worry.
The author really has you caring for Poppy. I especially love the relationship she has with Mark and her dad. I found with each chapter I was drawn to these characters especially and my heart just grew fonder of them as time goes on.
The letters that Poppy’s mum has left her really make for some heartfelt reading. I could feel a lump come up in my throat everytime I read one of them. I think it really makes you think about your own relationships with your own parents as well as your children. I think it was a lovely idea and thought Poppy was strong willed not to have ripped thm all open as soon as she found out about them.
Ten Birthdays is a truly beautiful and heart warming read. I really did love it and it made me so emotional. Whilst there is some sadness, this is truly an uplifting story that fills you full of hope and makes you think about life. A really fabulous story filled to the brim of the bestest kinds of friendships and relationships. Highly recommended.
The author really has you caring for Poppy. I especially love the relationship she has with Mark and her dad. I found with each chapter I was drawn to these characters especially and my heart just grew fonder of them as time goes on.
The letters that Poppy’s mum has left her really make for some heartfelt reading. I could feel a lump come up in my throat everytime I read one of them. I think it really makes you think about your own relationships with your own parents as well as your children. I think it was a lovely idea and thought Poppy was strong willed not to have ripped thm all open as soon as she found out about them.
Ten Birthdays is a truly beautiful and heart warming read. I really did love it and it made me so emotional. Whilst there is some sadness, this is truly an uplifting story that fills you full of hope and makes you think about life. A really fabulous story filled to the brim of the bestest kinds of friendships and relationships. Highly recommended.
April 7, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.)
I put off reading this book for a long time because the premise of a girl's mother having died and written her ten birthday cards in advance hit too close to home - my own mother died when I was nine and I would have given anything for such letters.
When I finally read this book, it ended up being funny and charming, though not as emotionally hard-hitting as I'd dreaded. The story is definitely focused on Poppy and her personal growth, and the letters are supplementary. We "pop" in on ten birthdays, as promised, and learn how Poppy has grown and changed (or not) each year.
I gave this book four stars because I could easily put it into the hands of friends or high school students. It has a nice story, a unique structure, and a cast of diverse characters.
I put off reading this book for a long time because the premise of a girl's mother having died and written her ten birthday cards in advance hit too close to home - my own mother died when I was nine and I would have given anything for such letters.
When I finally read this book, it ended up being funny and charming, though not as emotionally hard-hitting as I'd dreaded. The story is definitely focused on Poppy and her personal growth, and the letters are supplementary. We "pop" in on ten birthdays, as promised, and learn how Poppy has grown and changed (or not) each year.
I gave this book four stars because I could easily put it into the hands of friends or high school students. It has a nice story, a unique structure, and a cast of diverse characters.
April 21, 2017
A book of ten chapters , ten birthdays and 10 letters . This book is about Poppy and the loss of her mum and in general just her ordinary life . Sounds mundane ? It's isn't . The author manages to stream every chapter from one year to the next and draws you into Poppy's life with her two best friends and her loved dad . A nice change from my usual genre. My thanks to netgalley and the author for my arc
April 21, 2017
This is a very different read my Kerry Wilkinson and I was hooked. I got a lump in my throat numerous times and even cried. So for me this is one of the best books I've read this year. I would love for the story to go on as it left me wanting to know how life turned out...So I am hoping that one day he might write another..... Really cleverly written and a pleasure to read....
April 26, 2018
Really enjoyed this book. Loved that each chapter was Poppy's birthday and this made it a very quick read. It is aimed at YA and see that it would be ideal for teenagers, as shows that you don't need to have your life all planned out at 16. Eventhough I am outwith the desired reader age range I found it to be a sweet heartwarming story.
Read
July 13, 2017Love this book. But felt the great cap between the years a little confusing.
March 19, 2017
I loved this book! I loved the characters and story. The basic story is it's Poppy's 16th birthday and her dad gives her a letter from her mother who died the year before. He reveals her mother has written ten letters for her next ten birthdays. Each chapter is then each consecutive birthday. You get to read the letter and then find out about what Poppy is doing then. I think everyone will be able to empathise and identify with Poppy and her friends as they go through their teens and early twenties.
I highly recommend this book, it's not a long book but definately worth reading.
I highly recommend this book, it's not a long book but definately worth reading.
May 16, 2017
What a lovely book. Very uplifting and thought provoking. I really enjoyed this one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews