What do you think?
Rate this book
If Not Us
He’d always accepted the mine and power station were part of Shelbourne. On still nights, the thrum of the turbines echoed down the valley and melded with the sound of the ocean until you couldn’t tell them apart.
Hesse lives a small coastal town, where a coalmine and power station are a part of the scenery, and a part of the ever-growing problem of climate change. His mum is a member of a local environmental group campaigning to close the mine and shut down the power station. It’s a no-brainer, of course, but Hesse is more interested in surfing—and in Fenna, the new exchange student from the Netherlands.
But when someone seems to be trying to derail the campaign, and his friends’ families face losing their jobs, Hesse begins to realise that things are complex.
Even though he’s reluctant to step into the spotlight, with Fenna’s encouragement he decides it’s time to make a stand. Because some things are too important to leave to everyone else. And even one small, nervous voice can make a difference.
When Hesse agrees to speak at a protest meeting he has no idea of the storm he is about to unleash.
If Not Us is Mark Smith’s first standalone YA novel following his hugely successful Winter trilogy. It’s another great story with an engaging and relatable protagonist, as well as an impassioned plea for climate-change action that will inspire and empower readers of all ages.
Hesse lives a small coastal town, where a coalmine and power station are a part of the scenery, and a part of the ever-growing problem of climate change. His mum is a member of a local environmental group campaigning to close the mine and shut down the power station. It’s a no-brainer, of course, but Hesse is more interested in surfing—and in Fenna, the new exchange student from the Netherlands.
But when someone seems to be trying to derail the campaign, and his friends’ families face losing their jobs, Hesse begins to realise that things are complex.
Even though he’s reluctant to step into the spotlight, with Fenna’s encouragement he decides it’s time to make a stand. Because some things are too important to leave to everyone else. And even one small, nervous voice can make a difference.
When Hesse agrees to speak at a protest meeting he has no idea of the storm he is about to unleash.
If Not Us is Mark Smith’s first standalone YA novel following his hugely successful Winter trilogy. It’s another great story with an engaging and relatable protagonist, as well as an impassioned plea for climate-change action that will inspire and empower readers of all ages.
256 pages, Paperback
Published September 28, 2021
9 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Mark Smith
6 books120 followersMark Smith lives on the west coast of Victoria, Australia, He is the author of four novels: The Road To Winter, Wilder Country, Land of Fences and If Not Us (all Text Publishing). Wilder Country won the 2018 Australian Indie Book Award for YA. Mark is also an award winning writer of short fiction. He is the co-curator of Mind Went Walking, The Songs of Paul Kelly Reimagined and Into Your Arms, The Songs of Nick Cave Reimagined (both Fremantle Press). HIs first adult novel will be published by Pan Macmillan in January 2025
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
September 27, 2021
Seventeen-year-old Hesse lived with his mum, Imogen in the small coastal town of Shelbourne in Victoria, where school, surfing and his weekend job at the local surf shop took up his time. When Hesse met seventeen-year-old Fenna, an exchange student from the Netherlands, he wasn’t to know how much she would influence his life. Teaching her to surf, walking along the beach and doing homework together, the two teenagers didn’t have time or thoughts for much else. Until Imogen, a dedicated member of the local environmental group which had been working for the past five years to have the local mine and power station closed down, asked Hesse if he would be involved in the meeting which was coming up. Hesse’s mum asked him to do a speech, to put across the thoughts of young people on climate change.
The hall was packed, including with mine workers and hecklers. The first two speakers were listened to, then it was Hesse’s turn. He was incredibly nervous – would he mess it up? But when Fenna videoed the meeting, the chanting of the crowd including the voices of the hecklers, Hesse was shocked the following morning to see the video had gone viral and he was being touted as a local hero. Shelbourne was on the map! But what would be the outcome of all the publicity? Hesse just wanted to get back to the surf with Fenna…
If Not Us is a standalone YA novel by Aussie author Mark Smith, set in coastal Victoria amid the strength of climate change, protests and two sides of the story. I loved the Winter trilogy by Smith, and If Not Us didn’t disappoint. Great characters – Hesse was well written, a perfect teen, while Fenna’s character was faultless. I have no hesitation in recommending If Not Us, as well as the Winter trilogy – highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Text Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The hall was packed, including with mine workers and hecklers. The first two speakers were listened to, then it was Hesse’s turn. He was incredibly nervous – would he mess it up? But when Fenna videoed the meeting, the chanting of the crowd including the voices of the hecklers, Hesse was shocked the following morning to see the video had gone viral and he was being touted as a local hero. Shelbourne was on the map! But what would be the outcome of all the publicity? Hesse just wanted to get back to the surf with Fenna…
If Not Us is a standalone YA novel by Aussie author Mark Smith, set in coastal Victoria amid the strength of climate change, protests and two sides of the story. I loved the Winter trilogy by Smith, and If Not Us didn’t disappoint. Great characters – Hesse was well written, a perfect teen, while Fenna’s character was faultless. I have no hesitation in recommending If Not Us, as well as the Winter trilogy – highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Text Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2021
I'm giving this an extra star for bucking the trend and being a book about a very ordinary teenage boy. Books about these people who populate the high schools of every land, are very badly served with books at the moment. Thank goodness for Mark Smith and Scot Gardner and Mary-Anne Scott, the only people I seem to be able to rely upon to write for this group. It is quite irritating and they are a large section of the population and publishers and writers in general seem to have decided that they do not need new books to read. So, as far as I'm concerned I'll give this the full 5 stars to up it's ratings and encourage Mark Smith and the wonderful Text publishing to keep them coming.
This is Hesse's story. He is a surfer, Mark Smith loves a surfer, he is a caring and considerate young man. He lives in a beach town which has a coal fired power station as the major employer and polluter in town. It is an uncomfortable fit. In a town which prides itself on it's glorious beaches and surf, they have this horrible pollution situation hanging over their heads. Hesse's mum is out to do something about it and Hesse gets drawn into the activism. This makes for awkwardness with his mates whose families rely on the business for livelihoods.
Then Hesse meets Fenna, an exchange student. She's sad and isolated and he is a born rescuer. Before he knows what's happening he and Fenna are developing a deep friendship which slowly blossoms. There is a lot going on relationships wise, there is bullying, and drama and some downright dodgy behaviour amongst the people of the town. As the story moves along we get lots of little side notes and stories. A fantastic way of keeping the interest up and moving the story forward.
Mark Smith writes books for teenage boys, reluctant readers, and those who love to surf. If you've got teenagers in your library please buy this book. Read it and then sell it to them. I can instantly think of about six students in my old school who'd love this.
As a side note, please can we have a bunch of books like this. We talk about how we want to engage teens with reading, but we can't engage them if there are no new books for them to read.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Text publishing for giving me access to this treat.
This is Hesse's story. He is a surfer, Mark Smith loves a surfer, he is a caring and considerate young man. He lives in a beach town which has a coal fired power station as the major employer and polluter in town. It is an uncomfortable fit. In a town which prides itself on it's glorious beaches and surf, they have this horrible pollution situation hanging over their heads. Hesse's mum is out to do something about it and Hesse gets drawn into the activism. This makes for awkwardness with his mates whose families rely on the business for livelihoods.
Then Hesse meets Fenna, an exchange student. She's sad and isolated and he is a born rescuer. Before he knows what's happening he and Fenna are developing a deep friendship which slowly blossoms. There is a lot going on relationships wise, there is bullying, and drama and some downright dodgy behaviour amongst the people of the town. As the story moves along we get lots of little side notes and stories. A fantastic way of keeping the interest up and moving the story forward.
Mark Smith writes books for teenage boys, reluctant readers, and those who love to surf. If you've got teenagers in your library please buy this book. Read it and then sell it to them. I can instantly think of about six students in my old school who'd love this.
As a side note, please can we have a bunch of books like this. We talk about how we want to engage teens with reading, but we can't engage them if there are no new books for them to read.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Text publishing for giving me access to this treat.
September 5, 2021
“What do you think you’re going to change in Shelbourne on the weekend, Hesse? Nothing—that’s what. I wish you luck, I really do, but Hadron will crush your little group of activists and turn the whole town against you. You’re going to make enemies you don’t even know exist.”
If Not Us is the fourth novel by award-winning Australian author, Mark Smith. Just like many surf-mad kids his age, seventeen-year-old Hesse Templeton is somewhat oblivious to anything that doesn’t immediately impact on his daily life, and that includes climate change.
But recently, that’s what his attention has been drawn to: an essay for English class on the topic, then a gathering that his mother, Imogen hosts for the Shelbourne Action group, heightens his awareness to something virtually on his doorstep: the Hadron coal mine and power plant.
When Shelbourne Action hears that Hadron is trying to quietly sell off one of the dirtiest and most polluting power stations in the country, they can’t ignore the opportunity to try to shut it down. But what can a small-town environment group do against a multi-national?
The group’s high-flying Melbourne lawyer advocates getting the attention of banks and shareholders via social media. Hesse is rather alarmed to find he has agreed to speak at the coming town forum, but if it raises his standing in the eyes of recently arrived, pretty Dutch exchange student, Fenna De Vries, he’s willing to give it a go.
They are all mindful, though, of Hadron’s status in the town: the parents of several of his classmates, including his best friend, are employed by the company, and Hadron has a long history of supporting the town’s many sports and social clubs and organisations.
Smith’s depiction of a coastal Victorian town is perfect: the vibe of the place, the mindset of the townspeople, the dialogue, all feel so authentic, you’d think he lived in one 😉. There’s humour and drama, a bit of romance, and the social media event is an utter delight.
It’s very clear that Mark Smith has an intimate knowledge of surfing from passages like: “The peak was a little to his left so he paddled into position and put in half a dozen strong strokes, feeling the familiar surge as the wave lifted under him. He popped to his feet, took the little drop, pulled a fast bottom turn then milked the wall until it closed out on the shore break. The ride lasted no more than ten seconds, but it was a release, something so instinctive he hardly realised he was doing it”
Smith’s latest work is topical and relevant and it champions youth involvement in the important issues facing today’s society. It may be aimed at YA readers, but will appeal to a much wider range. This might be Mark Smith’s best yet!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Text Publishing.
If Not Us is the fourth novel by award-winning Australian author, Mark Smith. Just like many surf-mad kids his age, seventeen-year-old Hesse Templeton is somewhat oblivious to anything that doesn’t immediately impact on his daily life, and that includes climate change.
But recently, that’s what his attention has been drawn to: an essay for English class on the topic, then a gathering that his mother, Imogen hosts for the Shelbourne Action group, heightens his awareness to something virtually on his doorstep: the Hadron coal mine and power plant.
When Shelbourne Action hears that Hadron is trying to quietly sell off one of the dirtiest and most polluting power stations in the country, they can’t ignore the opportunity to try to shut it down. But what can a small-town environment group do against a multi-national?
The group’s high-flying Melbourne lawyer advocates getting the attention of banks and shareholders via social media. Hesse is rather alarmed to find he has agreed to speak at the coming town forum, but if it raises his standing in the eyes of recently arrived, pretty Dutch exchange student, Fenna De Vries, he’s willing to give it a go.
They are all mindful, though, of Hadron’s status in the town: the parents of several of his classmates, including his best friend, are employed by the company, and Hadron has a long history of supporting the town’s many sports and social clubs and organisations.
Smith’s depiction of a coastal Victorian town is perfect: the vibe of the place, the mindset of the townspeople, the dialogue, all feel so authentic, you’d think he lived in one 😉. There’s humour and drama, a bit of romance, and the social media event is an utter delight.
It’s very clear that Mark Smith has an intimate knowledge of surfing from passages like: “The peak was a little to his left so he paddled into position and put in half a dozen strong strokes, feeling the familiar surge as the wave lifted under him. He popped to his feet, took the little drop, pulled a fast bottom turn then milked the wall until it closed out on the shore break. The ride lasted no more than ten seconds, but it was a release, something so instinctive he hardly realised he was doing it”
Smith’s latest work is topical and relevant and it champions youth involvement in the important issues facing today’s society. It may be aimed at YA readers, but will appeal to a much wider range. This might be Mark Smith’s best yet!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Text Publishing.
Read
August 5, 2022The following book reviews have been shared by Text Publishing – publisher of If Not Us
‘If Not Us has it all: gutsy characters, a good fight, bone-shaking loss, love and hope.’
Scot Gardner
'An important and timely story about finding and using your voice as a young person in a complicated world. Moving and powerful, If Not Us is the right book for right now.’
Kate O’Donnell
‘A blast to read, filled with earnest romance, great drama and some brilliant descriptions of surfing…a story that recognises both the power of mass movements, as well as the importance of individual participation.’
Readings Monthly
‘A page-turner and a rallying cry with heart and soul.’
Simon McDonald, Potts Point Bookshop
'Smith’s descriptions of coastal surf life are vivid and transportive…this novel might kick-start a few important conversations.’
SMH/Age
'A tightly packed thriller of a read, the story leads itself to a wide range of eager teen readers…[An] ideal vehicle to encourage discussion and thought with secondary students and teachers.’
Magpies
’Smith deftly captures the transition from the teen world of wide-eyed optimism and first love to the adult world of concrete responsibilities and severe repercussions.’
Ben Chandler, Australian Book Review
‘Powerful… A textured, thoughtful work grounded in timely and enduring themes.’
Kirkus
‘If Not Us has it all: gutsy characters, a good fight, bone-shaking loss, love and hope.’
Scot Gardner
'An important and timely story about finding and using your voice as a young person in a complicated world. Moving and powerful, If Not Us is the right book for right now.’
Kate O’Donnell
‘A blast to read, filled with earnest romance, great drama and some brilliant descriptions of surfing…a story that recognises both the power of mass movements, as well as the importance of individual participation.’
Readings Monthly
‘A page-turner and a rallying cry with heart and soul.’
Simon McDonald, Potts Point Bookshop
'Smith’s descriptions of coastal surf life are vivid and transportive…this novel might kick-start a few important conversations.’
SMH/Age
'A tightly packed thriller of a read, the story leads itself to a wide range of eager teen readers…[An] ideal vehicle to encourage discussion and thought with secondary students and teachers.’
Magpies
’Smith deftly captures the transition from the teen world of wide-eyed optimism and first love to the adult world of concrete responsibilities and severe repercussions.’
Ben Chandler, Australian Book Review
‘Powerful… A textured, thoughtful work grounded in timely and enduring themes.’
Kirkus
September 30, 2021
‘Hesse slipped his board into the rack on the side of his bike and swept down the Russell Street Hill.’
Seventeen-year-old Hesse Templeton lives with his mother Imogen at Shelbourne, a small coastal town in Victoria. The town is dominated by an ageing coal-fired power station and a coal mine which are two of the town’s major employers. The power station is for sale. Some members of the community, increasingly concerned about the impact of climate change, would like to see both the coal mine and the power station closed.
Hesse’s mother, Imogen, is a member of the local environmental group lobbying for closure. Hesse’s major interest, outside his weekend work at the surf shop and keeping up with his schoolwork, is surfing (and dodging the town bully). That is until he meets Fenna de Vries, a new exchange student from The Netherlands. Along with his interest in Fenna, Hesse’s awareness of climate issues is growing.
‘He was writing an essay on climate change for English. The more research he’d done, the angrier he’d become.’
But as Hesse knows, closure of the mine and power station will lead to job losses. And those job losses will have a direct effect on some of his friends and their parents. Hesse is initially reluctant to get involved in the campaign but decides that he must make a stand. Fenna encourages him. A protest meeting is arranged, and Hesse agrees to speak:
‘My name’s Hesse, and I’m part of the generation that’s going to have to’—he stopped to clear his throat and swallow hard—to live with the effects of climate change.’
The town divides. Hadron, the owner of the power station has been a supporter of many activities in the town, and job losses loom. A brick is thrown through Imogen’s window, and Hesse is threatened with violence. But footage of the meeting (filmed by Fenna on her ‘phone) is shared to social media and goes viral. Suddenly the issue of the pollution caused by the Shelbourne coal mine and power station is no longer local.
This is a terrific YA novel which deals realistically with the local challenges of climate change. I can imagine how those locals employed by Hadron would feel, and I liked the way the teenagers made their feelings known. There’s a touch of romance as well, and humour, as well as evocative descriptions of surfing.
This is the first of Mr Smith's novels I have read, and I’ll be seeking out his earlier novels.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Text Publishing for providing me with a free electronic copy of
this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Seventeen-year-old Hesse Templeton lives with his mother Imogen at Shelbourne, a small coastal town in Victoria. The town is dominated by an ageing coal-fired power station and a coal mine which are two of the town’s major employers. The power station is for sale. Some members of the community, increasingly concerned about the impact of climate change, would like to see both the coal mine and the power station closed.
Hesse’s mother, Imogen, is a member of the local environmental group lobbying for closure. Hesse’s major interest, outside his weekend work at the surf shop and keeping up with his schoolwork, is surfing (and dodging the town bully). That is until he meets Fenna de Vries, a new exchange student from The Netherlands. Along with his interest in Fenna, Hesse’s awareness of climate issues is growing.
‘He was writing an essay on climate change for English. The more research he’d done, the angrier he’d become.’
But as Hesse knows, closure of the mine and power station will lead to job losses. And those job losses will have a direct effect on some of his friends and their parents. Hesse is initially reluctant to get involved in the campaign but decides that he must make a stand. Fenna encourages him. A protest meeting is arranged, and Hesse agrees to speak:
‘My name’s Hesse, and I’m part of the generation that’s going to have to’—he stopped to clear his throat and swallow hard—to live with the effects of climate change.’
The town divides. Hadron, the owner of the power station has been a supporter of many activities in the town, and job losses loom. A brick is thrown through Imogen’s window, and Hesse is threatened with violence. But footage of the meeting (filmed by Fenna on her ‘phone) is shared to social media and goes viral. Suddenly the issue of the pollution caused by the Shelbourne coal mine and power station is no longer local.
This is a terrific YA novel which deals realistically with the local challenges of climate change. I can imagine how those locals employed by Hadron would feel, and I liked the way the teenagers made their feelings known. There’s a touch of romance as well, and humour, as well as evocative descriptions of surfing.
This is the first of Mr Smith's novels I have read, and I’ll be seeking out his earlier novels.
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Text Publishing for providing me with a free electronic copy of
this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
August 31, 2021
If Not Us is a standalone novel from the author of the Winter series. Mark Smith creates in If Not Us a story of growing up, falling in love and finding your voice to speak up and be heard. With themes of climate change action, grief, and first love, If Not Us is a relatable novel for teens with an authentic male narrator.
Hesse lives to surf. He works in a surf shop and spends his free time in the waves. His goal is to one day surf the reef called Razors, where his father disappeared at sea and died. When Hesse gets involved in his mother’s environmental group campaign to close a local coal mine and power station, Hesse is thrown into the spotlight. It means taking a stand and his voice becoming the key to the campaign. It also means standing against his friends, whose parents might lose their jobs if the mine is shut down. In the midst of it all, Hesse meets Fenna, an exchange student who is dealing with her own anxiety and decisions about whether to stay in Australia or return home. As the campaign heats up and Hesse’s feelings for Fenna deepen, Hesse has to decide what is most important to him.
The environmental argument is front and centre in this book, and I kind of enjoyed that it was so open, no covert or hidden messages - just a boy concerned about his world and taking a stand for what he believes in. There is no doubting his message or beliefs - that isn’t part of the story, but the impact on him, his friends and family members and the cost of speaking out is highlighted.
The other main part of this story is Hesse’s relationship with Fenna. Things progress very quickly, but in a stop and start manner. Fenna’s anxiety is normalised and Hesse and others in the book are totally supportive.
Pop culture, social media, bullying, videos going viral, young love and even a car chase and some suspense at the end, make If Not Us an easy and quick book to read and enjoy. I am sure my teen readers of all genders and interests will be able to relate to such a hot topic book.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
Hesse lives to surf. He works in a surf shop and spends his free time in the waves. His goal is to one day surf the reef called Razors, where his father disappeared at sea and died. When Hesse gets involved in his mother’s environmental group campaign to close a local coal mine and power station, Hesse is thrown into the spotlight. It means taking a stand and his voice becoming the key to the campaign. It also means standing against his friends, whose parents might lose their jobs if the mine is shut down. In the midst of it all, Hesse meets Fenna, an exchange student who is dealing with her own anxiety and decisions about whether to stay in Australia or return home. As the campaign heats up and Hesse’s feelings for Fenna deepen, Hesse has to decide what is most important to him.
The environmental argument is front and centre in this book, and I kind of enjoyed that it was so open, no covert or hidden messages - just a boy concerned about his world and taking a stand for what he believes in. There is no doubting his message or beliefs - that isn’t part of the story, but the impact on him, his friends and family members and the cost of speaking out is highlighted.
The other main part of this story is Hesse’s relationship with Fenna. Things progress very quickly, but in a stop and start manner. Fenna’s anxiety is normalised and Hesse and others in the book are totally supportive.
Pop culture, social media, bullying, videos going viral, young love and even a car chase and some suspense at the end, make If Not Us an easy and quick book to read and enjoy. I am sure my teen readers of all genders and interests will be able to relate to such a hot topic book.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library
April 21, 2022
it was really cool to read about climate change issues revolving around australia. i hated all the people that didn’t give hesse a chance to speak just because he was a kid. also, i really liked the construction of hesse’s character and his relationship with fenna <3 (even though she went back home 😔). overall, it was a pretty good book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2023
Very good
July 22, 2022
Update: reread for readers cup question writing.
More tense and action-y than I expected. Very timely, and thoughtful about the planet's future.
More tense and action-y than I expected. Very timely, and thoughtful about the planet's future.
September 23, 2021
(Advanced copy) The jewel of this, imo, is the gorgeous and evocative writing about life, seasons, and environment in a Great Ocean Rd coastal town. Brilliant imagery there, very much raw and relatable. The language used and culture portrayed is similarly well-reflective.
Surfing imagery, lingo, and depictions were liberally used throughout, and that's not really "for" me, but I respect it nonetheless.
Fenna was interesting, and her friendship with Hesse was sweet and gentle. Hesse's two mates were less fully fleshed out but a decent nod to the rural migrant population. Felicity's characterisation and growth was very interesting and could easily have been a more prominent part of the story. Imogen was lovely, and the way the story dealt with her and Bear, also lovely.
The main plot of course was about climate change and the coal mine. The plot points, arguments, and development of this felt very believable. Early in the story, some of the climate change points were a little heavy-handed. The comment about wood-burning fireplaces seemed a weird one to bring up multiple times, wasn't sure how to feel about that. I think though that the plot reflected really well the growing climate anxiety as experienced by Gen Z.
The Jago plot seemed like an unnecessary addition, although it did get the pacing moving a little better at that three quarter mark which was appreciated. And Fenna's anxiety was also an interesting one to include... unfortunately, I didn't feel it was overly believable, and it did seem like one of Fenna's main defining traits?, but at the same time it wasn't an inaccurate representation and it did add continued depth to the story.
Overall, a very well written and framed story that is extremely and wonderfully coastal Victoria in its setting and culture. I don't think I am the target demographic of the book, it's not really my "kind" of story, and I'm not sure that it will stand out for me as anything particularly spectacular, but I'm very much looking forward to seeing it in the hands of my students.
Surfing imagery, lingo, and depictions were liberally used throughout, and that's not really "for" me, but I respect it nonetheless.
Fenna was interesting, and her friendship with Hesse was sweet and gentle. Hesse's two mates were less fully fleshed out but a decent nod to the rural migrant population. Felicity's characterisation and growth was very interesting and could easily have been a more prominent part of the story. Imogen was lovely, and the way the story dealt with her and Bear, also lovely.
The main plot of course was about climate change and the coal mine. The plot points, arguments, and development of this felt very believable. Early in the story, some of the climate change points were a little heavy-handed. The comment about wood-burning fireplaces seemed a weird one to bring up multiple times, wasn't sure how to feel about that. I think though that the plot reflected really well the growing climate anxiety as experienced by Gen Z.
The Jago plot seemed like an unnecessary addition, although it did get the pacing moving a little better at that three quarter mark which was appreciated. And Fenna's anxiety was also an interesting one to include... unfortunately, I didn't feel it was overly believable, and it did seem like one of Fenna's main defining traits?, but at the same time it wasn't an inaccurate representation and it did add continued depth to the story.
Overall, a very well written and framed story that is extremely and wonderfully coastal Victoria in its setting and culture. I don't think I am the target demographic of the book, it's not really my "kind" of story, and I'm not sure that it will stand out for me as anything particularly spectacular, but I'm very much looking forward to seeing it in the hands of my students.
August 23, 2021
I waited patiently (in what I can only imagine was a rather long, virtual queue) for the release of Mark Smith’s latest novel, ‘If Not Us’. The Road to Winter trilogy had me hooked (and I never read YA) and stuck with me for a long time after, so I was very excited to see what he might come up with next. Fresh off the last page after slightly wolfing the whole thing down at record speed, I’m still buzzing.
Hesse is a slightly awkward, undeniably sweet 17 year old surfer boy from a small coastal town in Victoria who finds himself almost unintentionally at the centre of an environmental campaign impacting his hometown.
If Not Us explores the big themes that affect all young people today, such as the threat of climate change and the impact and influence of social media, to more personal issues such as loss, anxiety, discovering what you feel passionately about, the often clumsy evolution into young adulthood, and of course, the wonder that is falling in love.
The dialogue is real, the relationships and experiences and things that are going on around Hesse feel incredibly real. As ever, Smith writes about surfing in a way that makes you feel like you are riding the wave and almost tasting the salty water right alongside him. And you definitely don’t have to be a surfer to appreciate those thrilling, intimate moments.
Hesse’s relationships with the adults he is closest to are too endearing to properly articulate here, you need to experience them on the page for yourself, but these are the details that make this story so memorable for me.
This is another pacey page turner (un-encumbered by wordy descriptions of dull things), and although it is seemingly gentle in its nature, I found myself frequently in a state of sheer panic for the safety of the characters, whom I had fallen hopelessly in love with and miss terribly already. The only downside to this book is that my time with Hesse ended too soon.
Hesse is a slightly awkward, undeniably sweet 17 year old surfer boy from a small coastal town in Victoria who finds himself almost unintentionally at the centre of an environmental campaign impacting his hometown.
If Not Us explores the big themes that affect all young people today, such as the threat of climate change and the impact and influence of social media, to more personal issues such as loss, anxiety, discovering what you feel passionately about, the often clumsy evolution into young adulthood, and of course, the wonder that is falling in love.
The dialogue is real, the relationships and experiences and things that are going on around Hesse feel incredibly real. As ever, Smith writes about surfing in a way that makes you feel like you are riding the wave and almost tasting the salty water right alongside him. And you definitely don’t have to be a surfer to appreciate those thrilling, intimate moments.
Hesse’s relationships with the adults he is closest to are too endearing to properly articulate here, you need to experience them on the page for yourself, but these are the details that make this story so memorable for me.
This is another pacey page turner (un-encumbered by wordy descriptions of dull things), and although it is seemingly gentle in its nature, I found myself frequently in a state of sheer panic for the safety of the characters, whom I had fallen hopelessly in love with and miss terribly already. The only downside to this book is that my time with Hesse ended too soon.
August 29, 2022
I dont even understand
the ending was so unrelated
what was it meant to symbolise??
the ending was so unrelated
what was it meant to symbolise??
November 7, 2021
I am rather biased as this author is a surf coast resident and I recognised the setting as our lovely Anglesea. It was fun to read and identifying the locations.
It does have a serious side however as the small beachside town battles the corporate giant and major employer of the town, to close down the coal fired power station. Hesse a local teenager finds himself on the campaign trail, when he would rather be out surfing or spending time with his new found friend, Fenna, an exchange student from the Netherlands.
The battle to close the power station did actually happen (I am pleased to say I went to a protest or two), not quite as portrayed in the book.
It does have a serious side however as the small beachside town battles the corporate giant and major employer of the town, to close down the coal fired power station. Hesse a local teenager finds himself on the campaign trail, when he would rather be out surfing or spending time with his new found friend, Fenna, an exchange student from the Netherlands.
The battle to close the power station did actually happen (I am pleased to say I went to a protest or two), not quite as portrayed in the book.
October 12, 2021
John F Kennedy’s famous quote ‘If not us, who? If not now, when?’ is the perfect epigraph – sitting alongside the words of Greta Thunberg – for the latest YA novel by Mark Smith, If Not Us (Text Publishing 2021). Smith is known for his Road to Winter trilogy of young adult novels which feature strong protagonists in a dystopian setting, books which are studied in schools all over Australia. If Not Us again features intelligent young people, set very much in the here and now as they battle the establishment over the timely and relevant issue of climate action. Smith is a climate activist himself but what sparked this story was the passion of today’s young people concerning climate change and their informed determination to make a difference through direct action, such as the School Strike 4 Climate rallies.
Set in a small coastal Victorian town which for decades has been economically and socially supported by the local coalmine and power station, If Not Us centres on 17-year-old Hesse who is at that awkward liminal age between adolescence and adulthood, with all the complicated angst around relationships, identity, school, plans for the future, friendships and ties with family. Hesse’s mum Imogen is a member of the local environment group which has spearheaded a five-year campaign in support of closing down both the mine and the power station, despite opposition from many locals, especially those who receive funds for social and sporting clubs from the large organisations, and those who work directly in the industry, whose jobs will be at risk if the status quo changes. In a sort of ‘accidental hero’ scenario, Hesse unwittingly becomes a spokesperson for the group, but as he learns more about the reality of dirty power and the risks to the environment and to people’s health, he decides to take a definitive stand and make sure the voice of his generation is heard loud and clear. In a trope often utilised in YA books, this is a story of one young person making a difference, despite being anxious or ill-equipped, in a David versus Goliath battle of principles and protest over might and power.
Hesse is an endearing protagonist who has a lot of other things also going on in his life. He is still grieving the loss of his father seven years earlier in a freak surfing accident, but despite that – or perhaps because of that – he is a keen surfer himself, both fearless and fearful of the sea and the power of the waves, and his ability or capacity to challenge it. It is obvious that Smith is an avid surfer himself and the evocative descriptions of the ocean and its swells and moods, and the detailed depiction of everything from the making of surfboards to the wearing of wetsuits, from reading the weather and predicting the surf to knowing every small nook and cranny of the rocky outcrops and sandy beaches of the local area, show us that he has not so much researched this book as actually lived it on a day to day basis. If you are a surfer, you will appreciate the references. And even if you are not, you will be impressed by the culture of this intrepid sport.
The other main thread is the developing friendship and young romance between Hesse and Fenna, a new exchange student from the Netherlands who has arrived at his school. Fenna is a complex, enigmatic character filled with insecurities and paradoxical behaviour and Smith captures very well the complicated frisson between the two, in addition to the usual teenage difficulties around other friends with competing interests or parents who don’t necessarily agree on political, economic or local issues.
When Hesse receives confidential information from an anonymous source about dangerously high and possibly illegal emission rates from the power station, and the effect on people’s health, he decides to take a stand and make a public statement about the issue. His actions have huge consequences and he is drawn into an international storm; once unleashed, there is no going back.
This novel could be a true non-fiction account of any of the many student action protests that have become more common in recent years, where engaged and informed young people – following the example of Greta Thunberg – have stood up publicly and declared ‘enough is enough’, demanding change from governments, big business and energy providers, urging the adults around them to step up and face the climate emergency that is no longer an emerging problem but is upon us right here and right now. Some small voices have made some big noises on the international stage recently as young people demand action around climate change and insist that older generations become more responsible towards the future of the planet which will be inherited by those who are now children or adolescents. If Not Us features numerous activists of all ages, but it is the young people who take centre stage. It proves that it is possible to be both anxious and energised, inexperienced and determined, young yet powerful. These are challenging times, both for the planet and for Hesse and the other characters personally, and yet these kids step up bravely to confront the problems and the people standing in the way of solutions.
With so much at stake, this novel takes a moral stand about climate change as its characters act with passion, integrity and strength. This narrative will be inspiring not only to younger readers, but to anyone with a keen interest in the fate of the world and what is being done to make changes in policies and processes before it is too late. And while environmentalism is the central theme, the exploration of love, friendship, adolescent confrontation with authority, facing your fears, taking risks and having the courage of your convictions are all simultaneous themes that invite debate and discussion.
If Not Us is well written, with a page-turning plot and rich characters, authentic dialogue and beautiful descriptive prose. It may not have the same tone of fearful urgency of Smith’s previous books, but it is imbued with purpose and optimism that is perhaps more apt for these times of pandemic uncertainty.
Set in a small coastal Victorian town which for decades has been economically and socially supported by the local coalmine and power station, If Not Us centres on 17-year-old Hesse who is at that awkward liminal age between adolescence and adulthood, with all the complicated angst around relationships, identity, school, plans for the future, friendships and ties with family. Hesse’s mum Imogen is a member of the local environment group which has spearheaded a five-year campaign in support of closing down both the mine and the power station, despite opposition from many locals, especially those who receive funds for social and sporting clubs from the large organisations, and those who work directly in the industry, whose jobs will be at risk if the status quo changes. In a sort of ‘accidental hero’ scenario, Hesse unwittingly becomes a spokesperson for the group, but as he learns more about the reality of dirty power and the risks to the environment and to people’s health, he decides to take a definitive stand and make sure the voice of his generation is heard loud and clear. In a trope often utilised in YA books, this is a story of one young person making a difference, despite being anxious or ill-equipped, in a David versus Goliath battle of principles and protest over might and power.
Hesse is an endearing protagonist who has a lot of other things also going on in his life. He is still grieving the loss of his father seven years earlier in a freak surfing accident, but despite that – or perhaps because of that – he is a keen surfer himself, both fearless and fearful of the sea and the power of the waves, and his ability or capacity to challenge it. It is obvious that Smith is an avid surfer himself and the evocative descriptions of the ocean and its swells and moods, and the detailed depiction of everything from the making of surfboards to the wearing of wetsuits, from reading the weather and predicting the surf to knowing every small nook and cranny of the rocky outcrops and sandy beaches of the local area, show us that he has not so much researched this book as actually lived it on a day to day basis. If you are a surfer, you will appreciate the references. And even if you are not, you will be impressed by the culture of this intrepid sport.
The other main thread is the developing friendship and young romance between Hesse and Fenna, a new exchange student from the Netherlands who has arrived at his school. Fenna is a complex, enigmatic character filled with insecurities and paradoxical behaviour and Smith captures very well the complicated frisson between the two, in addition to the usual teenage difficulties around other friends with competing interests or parents who don’t necessarily agree on political, economic or local issues.
When Hesse receives confidential information from an anonymous source about dangerously high and possibly illegal emission rates from the power station, and the effect on people’s health, he decides to take a stand and make a public statement about the issue. His actions have huge consequences and he is drawn into an international storm; once unleashed, there is no going back.
This novel could be a true non-fiction account of any of the many student action protests that have become more common in recent years, where engaged and informed young people – following the example of Greta Thunberg – have stood up publicly and declared ‘enough is enough’, demanding change from governments, big business and energy providers, urging the adults around them to step up and face the climate emergency that is no longer an emerging problem but is upon us right here and right now. Some small voices have made some big noises on the international stage recently as young people demand action around climate change and insist that older generations become more responsible towards the future of the planet which will be inherited by those who are now children or adolescents. If Not Us features numerous activists of all ages, but it is the young people who take centre stage. It proves that it is possible to be both anxious and energised, inexperienced and determined, young yet powerful. These are challenging times, both for the planet and for Hesse and the other characters personally, and yet these kids step up bravely to confront the problems and the people standing in the way of solutions.
With so much at stake, this novel takes a moral stand about climate change as its characters act with passion, integrity and strength. This narrative will be inspiring not only to younger readers, but to anyone with a keen interest in the fate of the world and what is being done to make changes in policies and processes before it is too late. And while environmentalism is the central theme, the exploration of love, friendship, adolescent confrontation with authority, facing your fears, taking risks and having the courage of your convictions are all simultaneous themes that invite debate and discussion.
If Not Us is well written, with a page-turning plot and rich characters, authentic dialogue and beautiful descriptive prose. It may not have the same tone of fearful urgency of Smith’s previous books, but it is imbued with purpose and optimism that is perhaps more apt for these times of pandemic uncertainty.
August 1, 2022
I feel like the whole thing was very rushed.
Just yeah, rushed and quick with wayy too many other details and side stories that I would have loved to have explored more.
It was all cut short and it left me feeling like what the hell did the author like just give up at the end?
I mean it wasn't a BAD book I have certainly read worse but i would not have ordinarily read something like this- Readers Cup.
So it is safe to say that this is just a once read book that I am happy to forget after the comp.
-
I mean I guess it was inevitable, I had to read this again.
Smashed it out in just under 3 hours, and god will I be happy when this compettition is over and I never have to read this book again.
Like I said, rushed, half hearted and strange characters.
Fenna was weird and quite frankly I found her annoying and cringy to read.
But maybe that was the point so, oh well.
Just yeah, rushed and quick with wayy too many other details and side stories that I would have loved to have explored more.
It was all cut short and it left me feeling like what the hell did the author like just give up at the end?
I mean it wasn't a BAD book I have certainly read worse but i would not have ordinarily read something like this- Readers Cup.
So it is safe to say that this is just a once read book that I am happy to forget after the comp.
-
I mean I guess it was inevitable, I had to read this again.
Smashed it out in just under 3 hours, and god will I be happy when this compettition is over and I never have to read this book again.
Like I said, rushed, half hearted and strange characters.
Fenna was weird and quite frankly I found her annoying and cringy to read.
But maybe that was the point so, oh well.
October 18, 2021
Surfing is one of the central themes of this YA novel so I was pretty sure I'd love it, and I did! Mark writes about surfing so well, transporting the reader out into the ocean. I'd previously enjoyed his surf writing in another book - he has a section in the anthology Lines To the Horizon: Australian surf writing.
The small-town coastal Victoria setting is vividly brought to life with tiny details. I could feel the cold and damp and hear the crash of waves.
The characters were fresh and fascinating: main character Hesse, a keen teenage surfer; Fenna, a troubled Dutch exchange student; their friends and classmates and other local teenagers. The adult characters were just as interesting: Hesse's mum, (a hard-working poverty-stricken single mother) and the various other adults gathering at Hesse's house to campaign about emissions from the local power station. Their complex relationships were cleverly woven into the main plot.
Climate change is another big theme in this novel, but the story never felt preachy, instead it showed the effects and different attitudes to the problem within the community in a relatable and entertaining way.
The story is fast-paced, tightly written and gripping. I really enjoyed this one!
The small-town coastal Victoria setting is vividly brought to life with tiny details. I could feel the cold and damp and hear the crash of waves.
The characters were fresh and fascinating: main character Hesse, a keen teenage surfer; Fenna, a troubled Dutch exchange student; their friends and classmates and other local teenagers. The adult characters were just as interesting: Hesse's mum, (a hard-working poverty-stricken single mother) and the various other adults gathering at Hesse's house to campaign about emissions from the local power station. Their complex relationships were cleverly woven into the main plot.
Climate change is another big theme in this novel, but the story never felt preachy, instead it showed the effects and different attitudes to the problem within the community in a relatable and entertaining way.
The story is fast-paced, tightly written and gripping. I really enjoyed this one!
April 9, 2022
3/5 stars
This wasn't bad, but it wasn't awesome either. After initially reading the synopsis of this book, I was unsure if I would like it, as it talks about environment and climate change. While reading it I found that it focused more on the MC, Hesse's life and relationships, not climate change. I feel that this book wasn't powerful enough and I would have liked to see more action and not just 'a sudden interest in climate change'. The events all happened really quickly and I felt like it was rushed a lot.
This book was short, so it didn't take me too long to read if I just read 30 or 40 pages a day. I liked Hesse and Fenna, as well as the side characters, but the element of romance in this book was a bit cringy.
The writing was okay, but I can't really identify a solid plot. This wasn't bad or anything and I would definitely not have picked up this book if it wasn't for Reader's Cup. I found it intriguing in a way, as I learnt about climate change, but I didn't enjoy it a ton.
Overall, I found that this book didn't have enough action in it and there was a rushed plot that was hard to understand at times.
One more Reader's Cup book to go and I'm done my initial read of all 4 books!!
This wasn't bad, but it wasn't awesome either. After initially reading the synopsis of this book, I was unsure if I would like it, as it talks about environment and climate change. While reading it I found that it focused more on the MC, Hesse's life and relationships, not climate change. I feel that this book wasn't powerful enough and I would have liked to see more action and not just 'a sudden interest in climate change'. The events all happened really quickly and I felt like it was rushed a lot.
This book was short, so it didn't take me too long to read if I just read 30 or 40 pages a day. I liked Hesse and Fenna, as well as the side characters, but the element of romance in this book was a bit cringy.
The writing was okay, but I can't really identify a solid plot. This wasn't bad or anything and I would definitely not have picked up this book if it wasn't for Reader's Cup. I found it intriguing in a way, as I learnt about climate change, but I didn't enjoy it a ton.
Overall, I found that this book didn't have enough action in it and there was a rushed plot that was hard to understand at times.
One more Reader's Cup book to go and I'm done my initial read of all 4 books!!
Read
April 18, 2022Hesse is a young, Aussie teen surfer, living in a small coastal town in Australia. The town itself has a huge coalmine and power station that the locals are rallying against to have permanently shut down and Hesse's mum is leading them in their actions.
Although Hesse has a lot going on in his teenage life - befriending Dutch transfer student, Fenna, standing up to the local 'cool guy' Jago and working in the surf shop he becomes involved in the anti power station group and decides to help make change in his small community.
This is such a great book! Its so refreshing to read an authentic Aussie text with a likeable teenage boy who is caring, determined and genuine. Unafraid of what people think and standing up for what he believes in.
Smith does an awesome job of setting up the town and it's locals while subtly introducing the issue of climate change without throwing it in your face.
While we follow Hesse on his journey to shut down the power station there is so much more going on. Smith has carefully interweved little stories throughout - from boyfriend/girlfriend problems, mental health, coming of age and friendship issues, each holding your attention to the very end.
Mark Smith you should be so proud of this book. Such a great one! Highly recommend!
Although Hesse has a lot going on in his teenage life - befriending Dutch transfer student, Fenna, standing up to the local 'cool guy' Jago and working in the surf shop he becomes involved in the anti power station group and decides to help make change in his small community.
This is such a great book! Its so refreshing to read an authentic Aussie text with a likeable teenage boy who is caring, determined and genuine. Unafraid of what people think and standing up for what he believes in.
Smith does an awesome job of setting up the town and it's locals while subtly introducing the issue of climate change without throwing it in your face.
While we follow Hesse on his journey to shut down the power station there is so much more going on. Smith has carefully interweved little stories throughout - from boyfriend/girlfriend problems, mental health, coming of age and friendship issues, each holding your attention to the very end.
Mark Smith you should be so proud of this book. Such a great one! Highly recommend!
December 20, 2022
Our Review…
Mark Smith’s new stand-alone novel If Not Us is a shout from the youth of today to take action.
Hesse loves to surf. He lives in a coastal town, busy with the weekenders from the city and quiet during the week. He has lost his dad at an early age in a freak surfing incident and now it’s just his mum, a local nurse and him. His biggest problem is finding a great wave and coping with the local bruising bully in the water.
That is until he overhears about the dirty politics and illnesses plaguing the township when he sits in on one of his mum’s environmental action group evenings. When he then meets (and falls for) Fenna, an international exchange student, his eyes are opened to mounting global issues outside of his small sphere of friends and school.
If Not Us is a call to action, but also a love story, as well as joyous story of youth and change, and of course a homage to the wonder and might of the sea. It moves with Mark’s trademark breakneck pacing and speed, and will delight his large fellowship of readers who have been waiting eagerly for a new novel since The Road to Winter Trilogy.
An absolute winner, great for any age, but perfect for 14 plus.
Review by Nicole @ Great Escape Books
Mark Smith’s new stand-alone novel If Not Us is a shout from the youth of today to take action.
Hesse loves to surf. He lives in a coastal town, busy with the weekenders from the city and quiet during the week. He has lost his dad at an early age in a freak surfing incident and now it’s just his mum, a local nurse and him. His biggest problem is finding a great wave and coping with the local bruising bully in the water.
That is until he overhears about the dirty politics and illnesses plaguing the township when he sits in on one of his mum’s environmental action group evenings. When he then meets (and falls for) Fenna, an international exchange student, his eyes are opened to mounting global issues outside of his small sphere of friends and school.
If Not Us is a call to action, but also a love story, as well as joyous story of youth and change, and of course a homage to the wonder and might of the sea. It moves with Mark’s trademark breakneck pacing and speed, and will delight his large fellowship of readers who have been waiting eagerly for a new novel since The Road to Winter Trilogy.
An absolute winner, great for any age, but perfect for 14 plus.
Review by Nicole @ Great Escape Books
September 5, 2022
If Not Us by Mark Smith has written another suberb YA novel. Set in along the Victorian coast issues of climate change take hold and the issues is explored in a very dramatic and effective way via a seventeen year old local, Hesse, and an international exchange student from the Netherlands, Fenna. The local area has a mine that is up for sale and the opportunity to have it closed down is taken up by local conservationists and climate change activists is taken up. Hesse finds himself embroiled in the issue and with the help of Fenna he talks at a local meeting which Fenna films on her phone and uploads to her friends overseas. The video goes viral and becomes a big news item.
The plot gets twist and turns which keeps it interesting as well as believable characters with realistic tensions. The environmental, climate change and bullying issues are cleverly presented.
Like Mark Smith’s Winter trilogy this is superbly written and is also a highly recommended read for all ages.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from Text Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The plot gets twist and turns which keeps it interesting as well as believable characters with realistic tensions. The environmental, climate change and bullying issues are cleverly presented.
Like Mark Smith’s Winter trilogy this is superbly written and is also a highly recommended read for all ages.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from Text Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 27, 2022
This YA novel is set in a fictional coastal town of Victoria. It's a small surf town that fills up with city dwellers on the weekend. It's also home to a coalmine and power station, which employs the majority of the town folk and financially supports all the local sports clubs and facilities and the surf club.
A small vocal group of locals have long challenged the big energy company's presence but not gotten any attention. That is until 17yo Hesse gets involved. His interest is piqued by a school essay, then by seeing the issue through the eyes of Fenna, a Dutch exchange student who he fancies. She comments that being in the town is like stepping back in time. He adds his voice to the cause, social media takes off then real world consequences start happening in their small town.
An enjoyable coming of age story, that's mostly an ode to surfing and coastal life in Australia with a light touch on environmental issues.
A small vocal group of locals have long challenged the big energy company's presence but not gotten any attention. That is until 17yo Hesse gets involved. His interest is piqued by a school essay, then by seeing the issue through the eyes of Fenna, a Dutch exchange student who he fancies. She comments that being in the town is like stepping back in time. He adds his voice to the cause, social media takes off then real world consequences start happening in their small town.
An enjoyable coming of age story, that's mostly an ode to surfing and coastal life in Australia with a light touch on environmental issues.
January 3, 2022
Mark Smith has a talent for putting the reader straight into the everyday life of the characters, with subtle twists and turns ratcheting up the drama as difficult events unfold. Each teen character holds their own fascination and deeper understanding for the reader, starting with 17 year old Hesse, a thoughtful coastal surf kid living with his widowed mother, and introspective but feisty Dutch exchange student Fenna, who is struggling with anxiety and identity, far from home.
Their small coastal town of Shelbourne is in trouble - coal mining company, Hadron, has been the town's main employer and benefactor for years, but the aging mine is deceptively dangerous to the environment, and the climate change debate is coming to an ugly head amongst the townspeople, including students like Hesse, Fenna and their friends.
Readers who enjoy this book should also enjoy Tristan Bancks, John Marsden, Lisa Fuller, Fiona Wood, Steven Herrick, Will Kostakis, Sue Lawson, Melina Marchetta, James Moloney, David Metzenthen and many more.
Their small coastal town of Shelbourne is in trouble - coal mining company, Hadron, has been the town's main employer and benefactor for years, but the aging mine is deceptively dangerous to the environment, and the climate change debate is coming to an ugly head amongst the townspeople, including students like Hesse, Fenna and their friends.
Readers who enjoy this book should also enjoy Tristan Bancks, John Marsden, Lisa Fuller, Fiona Wood, Steven Herrick, Will Kostakis, Sue Lawson, Melina Marchetta, James Moloney, David Metzenthen and many more.
March 28, 2022
This book centres around Hesse, a seventeen year old boy who lives in the small costal town of Shelbourne. It follows his journey of climate action and his struggles along the way.
I loved how the climate politics centred around the interpretations and values of a small town and a teenager: the voices that should be cantered in theses discussions. Nothing about this book is revolutionary, however I think it’s a really good introductory step for young audiences to learn and read about climate change and the effects it has on our planet. The characters were reasonably multidimensional and it was a quick, fun, interesting read.
I think the audience wasn’t directed towards me and what I typically like, and that is why it didn’t appeal to me as much. A solid read.
I loved how the climate politics centred around the interpretations and values of a small town and a teenager: the voices that should be cantered in theses discussions. Nothing about this book is revolutionary, however I think it’s a really good introductory step for young audiences to learn and read about climate change and the effects it has on our planet. The characters were reasonably multidimensional and it was a quick, fun, interesting read.
I think the audience wasn’t directed towards me and what I typically like, and that is why it didn’t appeal to me as much. A solid read.
April 9, 2022
‘Is not us’ is easy to read, short and perfect to put into the hands of a reluctant reader Years 9 & 10, especially if they like surfing! This cli-fi-er is set in a sea side town on the coast of Victoria and I loved the sense of place. I had a holiday at Marlo only in January and it felt similar. The plot is cast with broad brush strokes with a brevity of language that adds to the authenticity of the context and characters. For example, the main character Hesse, is named after ‘some author his mother liked back in the day’ & this tells much of his mother’s character. This is also a coming of age novel with explicit references to child vs adult & some salient scenes on navigating this space. There is much to praise in this book, I hope the YA-ers like it as much as I did.
August 31, 2021
Hesse lives in a small coastal town with a coal mine and a power station as a backdrop. His mum Imogen is a member of a local environmental group that is campaigning to close them both down due to climate change concerns. Hesse is really more interested in surfing and new girl, exchange student Fenna but he ends up getting involved in the campaign. But when someone tries to derail the campaign Hesse realises he has to take a stand even if it means upsetting his friends.
I enjoyed reading this and besides the actual story found the descriptions of surfing very interesting.
I felt like I was with Hesse on those waves!
I enjoyed reading this and besides the actual story found the descriptions of surfing very interesting.
I felt like I was with Hesse on those waves!
December 7, 2021
A heartfelt, passionate story about being a young person and standing up for what's right, in this case, climate change. Hesse is a surfer who is keen on the new Dutch exchange student. With her encouragement, he ignites a furore in his small town by rallying against the local mine and power station. The characters are quirky and realistic. If Not Us offers crisp writing, snappy pacing and gorgeous descriptions of surfing and the coastal landscape. I really enjoyed it. For all ages...they recommend 14 years and above... but my 12 year old boy loved it too.
April 5, 2024
This book resonated with me, as someone who grew up in a small coastal town. The themes of surfing, young love and environmental concerns are handled and intertwined well, and are topics that many young and old readers can connect with. I found the characters realistic and relatable, and the dynamics with school friends and other town folk convincing and enjoyable to read. Also the family dynamics were handled with a refreshing touch, showing decency and respect. This is a coming of age gem, fitting in an age group not covered by similarly oriented Tim Winton novels. A terrific read.
December 20, 2021
This is an important YA novel that explores the issue of coal powered electricity on a small coastal town. Hesse is a local surfer boy who works with a local group and an exchange student (love interest) to shut down the power station and coal mine amidst a town of workers and angry adults. Some politicians need to read this but won’t as it doesn’t fit with their ideals regarding the use of coal.
November 3, 2021
Hesse lives with a climate activist (his Mum), and becomes an overnight social media sensation when a video of a speech he makes goes viral. He is also falling in love with a newcomer at his school after teaching her to surf. The issues are current and authentic and the story empowering as Hesse makes ethical choices. It is set in a fictional coastal town near Melbourne.
October 2, 2023
This book does what it intends to do and nothing more; it's not an involved read by any means, but that's not to say that there isn't merit in its overly spelled-out lessons. It's a book that you read in an afternoon and feel moved by the story, but I wouldn't think it would hold much more space in one's mind after that.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews