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The Far Away Girl
She dreamed of finding a new life . . .
Georgetown, Guyana 1970. Seven-year-old Rita has always known she was responsible for the death of her beautiful mother Cassie. Her absent-minded father allows her to run wild in her ramshackle white wooden house by the sea, and surrounded by her army of stray pets, most of the time she can banish her mother's death to the back of her mind.
But then her new stepmother Chandra arrives and the house empties of love and laughter. Rita's pets are removed, her freedom curtailed, and before long, there's a new baby sister on the way. There's no room for Rita anymore.
Desperate to fill up the emptiness inside her, Rita begins to talk to the only photo she has of her dead mother, a poor farmer's daughter from the remote Guyanese rainforest. Determined to find the truth about her mother, Rita travels to find her mother's family in an unfamiliar land of shimmering creeks and towering vines. She finds comfort in the loving arms of her grandmother among the flowering shrubs and trees groaning with fruit. But when she discovers the terrible bruising secret that her father kept hidden from her, will she ever be able to feel happiness again?
Georgetown, Guyana 1970. Seven-year-old Rita has always known she was responsible for the death of her beautiful mother Cassie. Her absent-minded father allows her to run wild in her ramshackle white wooden house by the sea, and surrounded by her army of stray pets, most of the time she can banish her mother's death to the back of her mind.
But then her new stepmother Chandra arrives and the house empties of love and laughter. Rita's pets are removed, her freedom curtailed, and before long, there's a new baby sister on the way. There's no room for Rita anymore.
Desperate to fill up the emptiness inside her, Rita begins to talk to the only photo she has of her dead mother, a poor farmer's daughter from the remote Guyanese rainforest. Determined to find the truth about her mother, Rita travels to find her mother's family in an unfamiliar land of shimmering creeks and towering vines. She finds comfort in the loving arms of her grandmother among the flowering shrubs and trees groaning with fruit. But when she discovers the terrible bruising secret that her father kept hidden from her, will she ever be able to feel happiness again?
416 pages, Paperback
Published February 25, 2021
107 people are currently reading
268 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Maas
23 books339 followersSharon Maas was born in Georgetown, Guyana in 1951, and a sense of adventure has followed her around the world. In 1971 she spent a year backpacking around South America, followed by a few months with pioneering friends in the Guyana rainforest, followed by an overland trip to India, followed by a year in a Hindu Ashram.
She settled in Germany where she married, studied, worked, and raised children.
Officially retired, she continues to write from her new home in Ireland.
Her first novel was published by HarperCollins in 1999, followed by two more in 2001 and 2002. At present, she has 10 published works with the digital publisher Bookouture.
She has one self-published work, a retelling of the magnificent Indian epic Mahabharata: a project of love that took her over 30 years to "get right", written under the pen name S. Aruna.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 22, 2026
This book is Historical Fiction/Literary Fiction. I found the beginning very hard to get into, and I also found parts of this book hard to follow. I feel the historical jumps back in time need to be done better. I loved the book after I got into the book, and after I figured out what was happen. The last 50% was so great, and it is so worth getting through the first part of the book. There was a big reveal in this book, and the reveal was so heartbreaking, but it was good. There is some problems of this book that could upset readers, so you should really look into the triggers of this book before reading this book if you get upset by things you read. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
May 1, 2021
In 1976, five-year-old Rita is ripped away from the only family she has ever known and is taken to Georgetown, Guyana, to live with her father, Jitty Miraj. A wild child, she surrounds herself with animals and books, and shares everything with her diary, a gift from her father. Her father becomes her world, and she forgets her past.
When Doomsday comes, and she meets Jitty's new wife Chandra, Rita is told that she is not good enough. Chandra is embarrassed of Rita's African and Amerindian roots, her curly hair, and the fact that her parents weren't married. Rita is quickly set off to the side. Then a chance to visit her mother's family presents itself. Will Rita finally learn the truth her father will never tell? How did her mother die? This is the coming of age story of Rita Miraj, from five years old to adulthood.
This is an absolutely gorgeous, soul-touching book that I could not put down. We are immediately drawn into Rita's life and grow up with her as she learns to cope with a weak but manipulative father and his empty promises. Words are her gift, and we are gifted with her poems and diary entries. Music, movies, and political/historical events of the 1970s and 1980s are relayed through Rita, Jitty, and flashbacks to Rita's mother Cassie. The lush beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich history of the Pomeroon River area are described in vivid detail. Rita has a deeply moving and soul- changing moment on Shell Beach watching a turtle lay her eggs, and I was drawn in to her overwhelming wonder and joy. The evolution of Rita's heart, mind, and goals as she grows and learns is so well captured here. This book was an unforgettable, magical joy to read. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book from Bookouture via Historical Novels Review Magazine. My opinions are my own.
When Doomsday comes, and she meets Jitty's new wife Chandra, Rita is told that she is not good enough. Chandra is embarrassed of Rita's African and Amerindian roots, her curly hair, and the fact that her parents weren't married. Rita is quickly set off to the side. Then a chance to visit her mother's family presents itself. Will Rita finally learn the truth her father will never tell? How did her mother die? This is the coming of age story of Rita Miraj, from five years old to adulthood.
This is an absolutely gorgeous, soul-touching book that I could not put down. We are immediately drawn into Rita's life and grow up with her as she learns to cope with a weak but manipulative father and his empty promises. Words are her gift, and we are gifted with her poems and diary entries. Music, movies, and political/historical events of the 1970s and 1980s are relayed through Rita, Jitty, and flashbacks to Rita's mother Cassie. The lush beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich history of the Pomeroon River area are described in vivid detail. Rita has a deeply moving and soul- changing moment on Shell Beach watching a turtle lay her eggs, and I was drawn in to her overwhelming wonder and joy. The evolution of Rita's heart, mind, and goals as she grows and learns is so well captured here. This book was an unforgettable, magical joy to read. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book from Bookouture via Historical Novels Review Magazine. My opinions are my own.
February 1, 2021
The Far Away Girl is the eleventh novel by Guyana-born author, Sharon Maas. When she was five, Rita Maraj came to live at Number Seven Kaieteur Close, Georgetown, with her father and Mildred the maid. Her Daddy, having not had his own family from the age of three, didn’t know how to be a parent, so there wasn’t much discipline, but eventually Rita was happy, which was the most important thing, as far as he was concerned.
Until Doomsday arrived, Rita had been free to have her ant farm and jars of tadpoles and a menagerie of animals (she loved animals). Things in their old Dutch colonial white wooden mansion could be as messy as they liked, no one was bothered. Then Daddy brought home a wife, Chandra, who would be a mother for Rita, and everything changed: ants, animals all gone, everything had to be tidy, and a new baby…
Jitendra Maraj was always uneasy when Rita, ever inquisitive, raised the topic of her mother. She would hear whispers about her mother’s death and some would say Rita was a bastard; Jitty promised to tell her everything when she was older. Meanwhile, he discouraged contact with her mother’s family, up there in the hills near the Pomeroon.
When Rita finally met, properly, her maternal grandmother and visited the place from where Cassie Gomes had come, would she learn the truth? What was Jitty not telling?
Maas gives the reader a touching story of love and loss, guilt and grief, racial prejudice and moral judgement, as well as touching on conservation issues. Her characters are credibly flawed and most have a genuine appeal that allows the reader to invest in them, care about their fate and shed a tear or two at their tragedies.
The story is told from multiple perspectives and skips back and forth between timelines, clearly marked so there is no confusion. Entries into the diary that Jitty gives his daughter when she turns seven add to the narrative.
Maas deftly captures the era with mentions of popular songs, movies, political and world events; her gorgeous descriptive prose easily evokes her setting, giving it an authenticity only possible from one who is intimate with the place. The love that Maas has for Guyana and her people is apparent on every page. A wonderful, truly moving read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Bookouture.
Until Doomsday arrived, Rita had been free to have her ant farm and jars of tadpoles and a menagerie of animals (she loved animals). Things in their old Dutch colonial white wooden mansion could be as messy as they liked, no one was bothered. Then Daddy brought home a wife, Chandra, who would be a mother for Rita, and everything changed: ants, animals all gone, everything had to be tidy, and a new baby…
Jitendra Maraj was always uneasy when Rita, ever inquisitive, raised the topic of her mother. She would hear whispers about her mother’s death and some would say Rita was a bastard; Jitty promised to tell her everything when she was older. Meanwhile, he discouraged contact with her mother’s family, up there in the hills near the Pomeroon.
When Rita finally met, properly, her maternal grandmother and visited the place from where Cassie Gomes had come, would she learn the truth? What was Jitty not telling?
Maas gives the reader a touching story of love and loss, guilt and grief, racial prejudice and moral judgement, as well as touching on conservation issues. Her characters are credibly flawed and most have a genuine appeal that allows the reader to invest in them, care about their fate and shed a tear or two at their tragedies.
The story is told from multiple perspectives and skips back and forth between timelines, clearly marked so there is no confusion. Entries into the diary that Jitty gives his daughter when she turns seven add to the narrative.
Maas deftly captures the era with mentions of popular songs, movies, political and world events; her gorgeous descriptive prose easily evokes her setting, giving it an authenticity only possible from one who is intimate with the place. The love that Maas has for Guyana and her people is apparent on every page. A wonderful, truly moving read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Bookouture.
March 17, 2021
This book is a little hard for me to rate. I found the first 20-30(ish)% hard to get into. So much so, I was contemplating calling it a day. However, I pressed on and the next 60(ish)% was much better. Then we got to the last 10(ish)% and I again found it lacking. I am not sure what it is lately with books and endings that just seem so abrupt or unfinished. Maybe I read too much romance and now expect a nice, neat, "wrapped in a bow" ending. I don't know, but the ending on this one just felt SO abrupt. I wanted MORE. A further in the future look at what Rita's life looked like. Anyway, so yeah, this one was a mixed bag for sure....
**ARC Via NetGalley**
**ARC Via NetGalley**
February 3, 2021
Astoundingly beautiful, incredibly powerful, a powerhouse of a book. This author never ceases to amaze - book after book she stuns and beguiles with her beautiful prose and her wonderful stories. While her books are always making a point or several - this book is about racism, prejudice, self discovery, conservation, humanity- they also always tell a great, great story. This author is one of the most versatile writers I've read and yet whatever the genre her books are masterpieces. And this book! A coming of age story which also tackles racism and prejudice and environmental issues. But most of all it is an ode to Guyana. After reading this I want to go there, travel to the Pomeroon and the Kaieteur falls. This book is sheer perfection. Please read it. If you don't you're missing out.
May 10, 2024
Very sweet story, full of sadness and grief. The main character's story is redeemed in the end and hopefully closure is given to her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2021
Many thanks @netgalley and @bookouture for this advance reader copy of Sharon Maas’ latest novel, The Far Away Girl set for publication on 2nd March.
Based in 1970's Georgetown, Guyana, a landscape and culture I'm not overly familiar with, Maas sets the scene beautifully. Her imagery and scene setting is like no other, telling a story like no other as we follow young Rita and her father Jitty.
Rita lost her mother at an early age, in a way not known to her (which has been kept a staunch secret by her father) and she has "enjoyed" a childhood where her father has allowed her to run free, up until Jitty re-marries a lady called Chandra, a character who is not so lenient on her step-daughter’s upbringing and is so prejudice against Rita’s mixed race, personality and appearance.
Whilst still a child, Rita is wise before her time and stays true to herself and her beliefs. One for no messing, watching Rita come of age throughout this novel was such a treat and so eloquently and sensitively written.
The part of the story where Rita accompanies her Aunt Penny to her late mothers home and family in Pomeroon in the remote Guyanese Rainforest, were some of my favourite chapters of the book. Seeing her amongst family experiencing love that she has never felt, learning important life lessons that couldn't be taught at school, being at one with nature, living a simple life surrounded by loyalty, kindess and support, saw Rita open up in a way I didn't expect.
Despite being 450 pages in length, I devoured this book in just a couple of days. The emotion it evoked, the exquisite writing and the brilliant story telling, this book is sure to be a hit and has certainly become a firm favourite of mine.
For fans of Where the Crawdads Sing and The Vanishing Half, I'd be sure to give this one a try 🙌
4.5 🌟✨ from me!
Based in 1970's Georgetown, Guyana, a landscape and culture I'm not overly familiar with, Maas sets the scene beautifully. Her imagery and scene setting is like no other, telling a story like no other as we follow young Rita and her father Jitty.
Rita lost her mother at an early age, in a way not known to her (which has been kept a staunch secret by her father) and she has "enjoyed" a childhood where her father has allowed her to run free, up until Jitty re-marries a lady called Chandra, a character who is not so lenient on her step-daughter’s upbringing and is so prejudice against Rita’s mixed race, personality and appearance.
Whilst still a child, Rita is wise before her time and stays true to herself and her beliefs. One for no messing, watching Rita come of age throughout this novel was such a treat and so eloquently and sensitively written.
The part of the story where Rita accompanies her Aunt Penny to her late mothers home and family in Pomeroon in the remote Guyanese Rainforest, were some of my favourite chapters of the book. Seeing her amongst family experiencing love that she has never felt, learning important life lessons that couldn't be taught at school, being at one with nature, living a simple life surrounded by loyalty, kindess and support, saw Rita open up in a way I didn't expect.
Despite being 450 pages in length, I devoured this book in just a couple of days. The emotion it evoked, the exquisite writing and the brilliant story telling, this book is sure to be a hit and has certainly become a firm favourite of mine.
For fans of Where the Crawdads Sing and The Vanishing Half, I'd be sure to give this one a try 🙌
4.5 🌟✨ from me!
January 23, 2021
The beautiful cover of this book captured my attention at first and when I read that it was set in Guyana, I knew I had to read it! You see, I know nothing about Guyana and I love to learn as I read. The best person to teach you something, is someone who has experienced it themselves. Fortunately, the author, Sharon Maas hails from British Guiana and therefore, she had a treasure trove of experiences and memories from which to draw for her story. Did you know that Guyana is in South America? It’s a country in the north, sandwiched between Venezuela and Suriname. It’s actually considered part of the Caribbean region because of its strong cultural, historical and political ties with other Caribbean countries. Maas’s novel is set against a colourful backdrop and showcases a tale of racial tension, forbidden love and family secrets.
The Far Away Girl is the saga of Rita Maraj and her family. The author invites us to delve into Rita’s past and meet her father, Jitty, who raised her from she was five years old. Although he is a fantastic father, Rita struggles to accept him after being torn from the only family she’s ever known. When he marries and has another daughter, Rita realizes that she’ll never fit in to the family. When there’s talk of them immigrating to London or Canada, Rita knows she can’t go with them. Thankfully, it’s at this point that her auntie shows up, begging Rita to come for a two week trip to meet her grandparents and extended family. When Rita agrees, she has no idea how much the visit will change her life. Finally, she gets to experience joy, love, acceptance and a sense of ‘family.’ When buried secrets come to the surface, Rita’s world is shaken. Can she accept them and move forward? Will she learn to emulate her grandmother and learn to forgive? Will she finally learn about her mother?
As Rita explores her new surroundings, it gives the author a chance to teach her readers about this country and its customs. Maas paints a vivid picture of the stately homes framed with colourful blooms against a backdrop of foliage. She has ignited in me a desire to travel and learn for myself the beauty of this country. In sharing Rita’s story, which parallels the life of a leatherback turtle, Maas reminds us of the importance of forgiveness, being accountable and transparent, and the far-reaching effects of family on shaping our future. The Far Away Girl is to be published March 2, 2021.
Thank you Sharon Maas, Bookouture and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Far Away Girl is the saga of Rita Maraj and her family. The author invites us to delve into Rita’s past and meet her father, Jitty, who raised her from she was five years old. Although he is a fantastic father, Rita struggles to accept him after being torn from the only family she’s ever known. When he marries and has another daughter, Rita realizes that she’ll never fit in to the family. When there’s talk of them immigrating to London or Canada, Rita knows she can’t go with them. Thankfully, it’s at this point that her auntie shows up, begging Rita to come for a two week trip to meet her grandparents and extended family. When Rita agrees, she has no idea how much the visit will change her life. Finally, she gets to experience joy, love, acceptance and a sense of ‘family.’ When buried secrets come to the surface, Rita’s world is shaken. Can she accept them and move forward? Will she learn to emulate her grandmother and learn to forgive? Will she finally learn about her mother?
As Rita explores her new surroundings, it gives the author a chance to teach her readers about this country and its customs. Maas paints a vivid picture of the stately homes framed with colourful blooms against a backdrop of foliage. She has ignited in me a desire to travel and learn for myself the beauty of this country. In sharing Rita’s story, which parallels the life of a leatherback turtle, Maas reminds us of the importance of forgiveness, being accountable and transparent, and the far-reaching effects of family on shaping our future. The Far Away Girl is to be published March 2, 2021.
Thank you Sharon Maas, Bookouture and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 7, 2021
The Faraway Girl sees Sharon Maas returning to the exotic South American country of Guyana, the setting of some of her earlier books. Instantly I knew that this would be a very good read and the more the book progressed I could tell that the author felt so comfortable writing in this setting because she was using her own memories of the country and she knew it so very well. She recreated a world that was part of her and it showed. In the end notes she mentions how her last few books required a lot of research because they were set in Europe during the war but here it was easier as she was delving back into her memories. I sense this story just flowed onto the page whilst she was writing it and that she enjoyed the time spent writing about Rita. I did enjoy her last few books set in Europe but I just felt it just wasn’t what the author was used to writing about and at times it showed.
Now we are back on familiar territory and The Faraway Girl is a brilliant coming of age story that transport you to an alluring, colourful, vivid country yet one with its own history and struggles. Similar to the difficulties and confusion that abound for Rita. Rita is an incredible character and it’s testament to such brilliant, engrossing writing that you do connect with her so much given for most of the novel she is a young girl and then we follow her teenage years. She lives with her father Jitty in Georgetown, her mother Cassie having died when she was a baby. Rita is of mixed race and this is something that presents many challenges and questions for her as the years pass by and we journey with her through ups and downs ad struggles both physical and emotional.
She is only six when we are first introduced to her but it’s easy to see she has an indominable spirit. She is fiery, self-sufficient and her love for all creatures great and small is evident with every turn of the page. Rita is more or less allowed to run feral and do what she wants. She is not your typical young girl but yet there is something that really draws the reader into her world and her mind. She is confused over not knowing her mother. She hates the fact that her father is so absent both in mind and body and promises are always broken. Rita is a survivor. She has learnt to go out there on her own into the gardens and the surrounding neighbourhood and fend for herself to explore and discover what is on offer to her inquisitive mind. These areas are what shape and mould her and the children she meets and the friends she makes and then perhaps distances herself from all really add to Rita’s story.
Yet there is also a softer side to her, one which she reluctantly shows every know and again. When Jitty introduces Chandra, as her new stepmother, she feels even more abandoned as if she doesn’t matter to anyone anymore. Chandra imposes rules and regulations and tries to curb the free spirit that is Rita. She does not like to be controlled or curtailed. This complex, deep and meaningful need within her really needs to be listened in order to understand and have her questions answered but this is never forthcoming.
Every so often we have chapters from Jitty’s viewpoint where he recollects his history, and he too struggled since he was left in the care of his grandma when his family were killed in a car accident. We learn how he met Cassie and theirs is an intriguing but problematic love story as they have to deal with family traditions, rules and regulations that impose on their unity. It was fascinating to read about this because it helped me understood even more what Rita was experiencing and really how Jitty couldn’t open up and tell his daughter everything she desperately needed to know in order to make sense of her place in the world. She couldn’t understand why Jitty was so secretive, forgetful and never spoke of her mother. He has deep secrets, hidden flaws, and has made slips ups and bad decisions. Yet for most of the book he does not seem to feel an urgent need to rectify them in order to help Rita. Instead this tough, caustic, defensive attitude of self preservation increases within Rita as she grows older and she battles with her identity. This really comes across in the friendships and relationships she forms and it is hard to read her and understand some of her actions.
I found at times the book went off on tangents away from the main plot and normally this would really frustrate me as quite often said tangents add nothing to the overall story but rather detract from it. Here this wasn’t the case at all but rather it added to the overall picture being built up. The insight into Jitty every so often helped mould the plot even further as we came to know more about his mannerisms, upbringing and his mind and it was truly fascinating. Similar to Rita he battles with his conscience and what he knows is the right thing to do but he doesn’t listen to his mind and follow the right path. Instead he has created confusion and Rita’s quest to understand her family, her heritage and her own sense of self only further intensifies instead of her being told the truth which would allow comfort, acceptance and a new stage of her life to begin. Rita has always felt like a slice of her life is missing and if you have this solidity in your own life you wonder how she must feel. But her feelings and emotions do jump off the page and sharing her diary entries with the reader really helps with this.
When Rita comes to know of her family in Pomeroon, an area deep in rural Guyana, she believes finding the spirit of her mother will provide her with the answers she seeks. That branch of the family have tried to communicate in the past and there is certainly something there that she needs to discover but it has been shut off from her for so long. Through Jitty’s actions of non contact or Rita’s refusal to meet an aunt who lives in Georgetown, either way in the later half of the book Rita’s remarkable journey takes many turns as she journeys to the Pomeroon.
Here the author’s vivid descriptions of a country so colourful and exotic and so vastly different to ours really help us understand the experiences and emotions Rita is going through. The countryside is vast and filled with sights, sounds, animals and visions Rita has had no experience of. Why was she so cut off from everything? Why has Jitty been such a closed book when it comes to her mother? Why can he not provide her with the answers and peace of mind she deserves? Will Rita experience something there that will transform her thought process and take her in a direction she never deemed possible? I loved the scenes set in Pomeroon, you could see the changes occurring within Rita that were also manifesting themselves on the outside. Her sense of worthlessness disappears and although the path she still has to thread remains difficult and mired with obstacles she may have the strength to reach the other side. The Faraway Girl was a wonderful story and for me I feel Sharon Maas has returned to top form. More like this please in the future.
Now we are back on familiar territory and The Faraway Girl is a brilliant coming of age story that transport you to an alluring, colourful, vivid country yet one with its own history and struggles. Similar to the difficulties and confusion that abound for Rita. Rita is an incredible character and it’s testament to such brilliant, engrossing writing that you do connect with her so much given for most of the novel she is a young girl and then we follow her teenage years. She lives with her father Jitty in Georgetown, her mother Cassie having died when she was a baby. Rita is of mixed race and this is something that presents many challenges and questions for her as the years pass by and we journey with her through ups and downs ad struggles both physical and emotional.
She is only six when we are first introduced to her but it’s easy to see she has an indominable spirit. She is fiery, self-sufficient and her love for all creatures great and small is evident with every turn of the page. Rita is more or less allowed to run feral and do what she wants. She is not your typical young girl but yet there is something that really draws the reader into her world and her mind. She is confused over not knowing her mother. She hates the fact that her father is so absent both in mind and body and promises are always broken. Rita is a survivor. She has learnt to go out there on her own into the gardens and the surrounding neighbourhood and fend for herself to explore and discover what is on offer to her inquisitive mind. These areas are what shape and mould her and the children she meets and the friends she makes and then perhaps distances herself from all really add to Rita’s story.
Yet there is also a softer side to her, one which she reluctantly shows every know and again. When Jitty introduces Chandra, as her new stepmother, she feels even more abandoned as if she doesn’t matter to anyone anymore. Chandra imposes rules and regulations and tries to curb the free spirit that is Rita. She does not like to be controlled or curtailed. This complex, deep and meaningful need within her really needs to be listened in order to understand and have her questions answered but this is never forthcoming.
Every so often we have chapters from Jitty’s viewpoint where he recollects his history, and he too struggled since he was left in the care of his grandma when his family were killed in a car accident. We learn how he met Cassie and theirs is an intriguing but problematic love story as they have to deal with family traditions, rules and regulations that impose on their unity. It was fascinating to read about this because it helped me understood even more what Rita was experiencing and really how Jitty couldn’t open up and tell his daughter everything she desperately needed to know in order to make sense of her place in the world. She couldn’t understand why Jitty was so secretive, forgetful and never spoke of her mother. He has deep secrets, hidden flaws, and has made slips ups and bad decisions. Yet for most of the book he does not seem to feel an urgent need to rectify them in order to help Rita. Instead this tough, caustic, defensive attitude of self preservation increases within Rita as she grows older and she battles with her identity. This really comes across in the friendships and relationships she forms and it is hard to read her and understand some of her actions.
I found at times the book went off on tangents away from the main plot and normally this would really frustrate me as quite often said tangents add nothing to the overall story but rather detract from it. Here this wasn’t the case at all but rather it added to the overall picture being built up. The insight into Jitty every so often helped mould the plot even further as we came to know more about his mannerisms, upbringing and his mind and it was truly fascinating. Similar to Rita he battles with his conscience and what he knows is the right thing to do but he doesn’t listen to his mind and follow the right path. Instead he has created confusion and Rita’s quest to understand her family, her heritage and her own sense of self only further intensifies instead of her being told the truth which would allow comfort, acceptance and a new stage of her life to begin. Rita has always felt like a slice of her life is missing and if you have this solidity in your own life you wonder how she must feel. But her feelings and emotions do jump off the page and sharing her diary entries with the reader really helps with this.
When Rita comes to know of her family in Pomeroon, an area deep in rural Guyana, she believes finding the spirit of her mother will provide her with the answers she seeks. That branch of the family have tried to communicate in the past and there is certainly something there that she needs to discover but it has been shut off from her for so long. Through Jitty’s actions of non contact or Rita’s refusal to meet an aunt who lives in Georgetown, either way in the later half of the book Rita’s remarkable journey takes many turns as she journeys to the Pomeroon.
Here the author’s vivid descriptions of a country so colourful and exotic and so vastly different to ours really help us understand the experiences and emotions Rita is going through. The countryside is vast and filled with sights, sounds, animals and visions Rita has had no experience of. Why was she so cut off from everything? Why has Jitty been such a closed book when it comes to her mother? Why can he not provide her with the answers and peace of mind she deserves? Will Rita experience something there that will transform her thought process and take her in a direction she never deemed possible? I loved the scenes set in Pomeroon, you could see the changes occurring within Rita that were also manifesting themselves on the outside. Her sense of worthlessness disappears and although the path she still has to thread remains difficult and mired with obstacles she may have the strength to reach the other side. The Faraway Girl was a wonderful story and for me I feel Sharon Maas has returned to top form. More like this please in the future.
February 15, 2021
Daddy's Secret
Rita is a seven year old girl living in Guyana in the 1970's. She is happy living with her happy go lucky father and her animals. She hasn't a care in the world until all of a sudden she has a stepmother Chandra. She does not get along with her stepmother who always puts her down for being half-caste, not that she is sure what that means but she thinks it is because she has kinky hair. Then she has a little sister, she loves her sister but she is annoying at times.
Rita wonders what happened to her mother. Her father never talks about it, ever. He also never keeps any promises. The older she gets the more she wonders about her mother. She gets birthday presents from her aunts and grandmother, but when her aunt comes to visit her father slams the door in her face. Still she wonders where she came from and who her mother was, what was she like and why did she die.
This is a coming of age story about Rita. The story of her life, her loves, her young years and her teen years. About family secrets, family problems and a father that loves his daughter but is not cut out to be a family man. One day when Rita is grown she finds out the secret of her mother's death .
This is a book of forgiveness and of love. It is a book of everyday living and a family that just doesn't quite fit together. Rita forges ahead with her life and finds happiness in spite of her upbringing.
I loved the characters in the book, but most of all the vivid descriptions of the beauty of Guyana and the wildlife and rain forest. The shell beach made of shells and the turtles. The beautiful Kaieteur Falls set in the Kaieteur national park. The Golden frogs that are as small as a thumbnail. It was so descriptive I felt like I was there watching the falls and seeing the turtles hatching on shell beach.
I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Sharon Maas, Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy in return for an honest review.
Rita is a seven year old girl living in Guyana in the 1970's. She is happy living with her happy go lucky father and her animals. She hasn't a care in the world until all of a sudden she has a stepmother Chandra. She does not get along with her stepmother who always puts her down for being half-caste, not that she is sure what that means but she thinks it is because she has kinky hair. Then she has a little sister, she loves her sister but she is annoying at times.
Rita wonders what happened to her mother. Her father never talks about it, ever. He also never keeps any promises. The older she gets the more she wonders about her mother. She gets birthday presents from her aunts and grandmother, but when her aunt comes to visit her father slams the door in her face. Still she wonders where she came from and who her mother was, what was she like and why did she die.
This is a coming of age story about Rita. The story of her life, her loves, her young years and her teen years. About family secrets, family problems and a father that loves his daughter but is not cut out to be a family man. One day when Rita is grown she finds out the secret of her mother's death .
This is a book of forgiveness and of love. It is a book of everyday living and a family that just doesn't quite fit together. Rita forges ahead with her life and finds happiness in spite of her upbringing.
I loved the characters in the book, but most of all the vivid descriptions of the beauty of Guyana and the wildlife and rain forest. The shell beach made of shells and the turtles. The beautiful Kaieteur Falls set in the Kaieteur national park. The Golden frogs that are as small as a thumbnail. It was so descriptive I felt like I was there watching the falls and seeing the turtles hatching on shell beach.
I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Sharon Maas, Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy in return for an honest review.
September 15, 2024
Fourth stop: Guyana 🇬🇾
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The villages seemed almost identical, collections of little wooden edifices on high stilts, clustered on both sides of the dusty road, behind rotting bridges and overgrown grass verges and front yards where a cow might graze or a donkey might be tethered. Occasionally, beyond the villages, they passed a grander house, two-storeyed, perhaps, and freshly painted, the gardens well-tended and bursting with colour, the house itself perched on tall solid columns. But everywhere, the sheer greenness overwhelmed: wild-growing bushes, flowering shrubs, trees hung with fruit. Coconut groves and rice fields, wild cane and banana orchards. And all this against the backdrop of blaring reggae pouring from the car’s loudspeakers” (230).
Took me a minute to get into this one, but ended up loving it! It was hard not to love the protagonist, Rita, from jump, and basically as soon as she entered the story is when I got really into it. The element of mystery that runs throughout the book definitely kept me reading, as the more I loved Rita, the more I wanted to uncover the truth behind all the family secrets. I also became similarly attached to a bunch of the characters who appeared about halfway through the book. I wanted more of them!
This book definitely paints a vivid picture of life in Guyana, both in the capital city and the far-flung, rural villages hidden amongst rainforest and rivers. This book made me add Guyana to my list of future vacations.
My only complaint really is that I wish it were longer. This is an epic that spans 19 years of a girl’s life, and I think more pages would’ve meant Maas could have gone into more detail. There were some very detailed passages with vivid descriptions of nature, and basically I wanted more vivid descriptions of everything! Overall, I loved reading about Rita’s life journey and didn’t want it to end!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The villages seemed almost identical, collections of little wooden edifices on high stilts, clustered on both sides of the dusty road, behind rotting bridges and overgrown grass verges and front yards where a cow might graze or a donkey might be tethered. Occasionally, beyond the villages, they passed a grander house, two-storeyed, perhaps, and freshly painted, the gardens well-tended and bursting with colour, the house itself perched on tall solid columns. But everywhere, the sheer greenness overwhelmed: wild-growing bushes, flowering shrubs, trees hung with fruit. Coconut groves and rice fields, wild cane and banana orchards. And all this against the backdrop of blaring reggae pouring from the car’s loudspeakers” (230).
Took me a minute to get into this one, but ended up loving it! It was hard not to love the protagonist, Rita, from jump, and basically as soon as she entered the story is when I got really into it. The element of mystery that runs throughout the book definitely kept me reading, as the more I loved Rita, the more I wanted to uncover the truth behind all the family secrets. I also became similarly attached to a bunch of the characters who appeared about halfway through the book. I wanted more of them!
This book definitely paints a vivid picture of life in Guyana, both in the capital city and the far-flung, rural villages hidden amongst rainforest and rivers. This book made me add Guyana to my list of future vacations.
My only complaint really is that I wish it were longer. This is an epic that spans 19 years of a girl’s life, and I think more pages would’ve meant Maas could have gone into more detail. There were some very detailed passages with vivid descriptions of nature, and basically I wanted more vivid descriptions of everything! Overall, I loved reading about Rita’s life journey and didn’t want it to end!
March 30, 2022
The Faraway Girl is set in the 1970s in Guyana. Rita is five at the beginning of the story, knowing that she's the reason her mother died but not why or how. Her father, Jitty, refuses to talk about it and, unused to being a father, basically lets Rita run wild, their house cluttered, full off stray pets that Rita has adopted. But then Jitty brings home a woman, Chandra, to be Rita's new mother, and soon a new sister too. From the start, Chandra looks down on Rita for her mixed race and is very stern with her. Later, determined to learn more about her mother, Rita travels to stay with her grandmother, but the truth she learns will change her life forever.
I had a hard time getting into this book and it wasn't until about halfway through that it caught my attention. The descriptions of the beautiful countryside and the wildlife was fascinating though and well worth the effort to get to the heart of the story. I just wanted to give Rita a hug for how she was treated for a lot of her childhood.
I received an advance reader copy of this book through NetGalley. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
I had a hard time getting into this book and it wasn't until about halfway through that it caught my attention. The descriptions of the beautiful countryside and the wildlife was fascinating though and well worth the effort to get to the heart of the story. I just wanted to give Rita a hug for how she was treated for a lot of her childhood.
I received an advance reader copy of this book through NetGalley. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
March 6, 2021
I enjoyed how this book captured both the time and spirit of a country that seems exotic to the outsider yet is anything but to the local inhabitants. I was grabbed by Rita and wanted to adopt her, yet her mother's story is even sadder. I learnt a lot about the political situation in Guyana at the time even if the tone at times seemed to detract from the story. However, the story itself is both harrowing and wonderful and well worth a read.
February 27, 2021
A touching read of love, grief and family. This multi perspective story covers issues of race and class in 1970’s Guyana and is a powerful tale. I especially liked the part when Rita returns to her mother’s home and family and discovers the love and life lessons available in the simple life surrounded by loyal family and friends.
January 21, 2021
This is a beautifully written story about seven year old Rita, who lives with her dad Jitty in Georgetown Guyana. She is pretty spoiled and allowed to do whatever makes her heart happy. She loves animals and nature, which often see’s her bringing home stray animals, playing wherever she likes, happy in her own little world.
But this all changes when her dad remarries and her step mother Chandra puts a stop to all her fun. Rita spends a lot of time thinking about her own mum who died when she was very young and longs to know what happened to her. This book follows Rita’s journey to adulthood and discovering the truth about her mother’s untimely and tragic death.
The front cover of this book is beautiful and colourful, it perfectly captures Rita’s personality and how she’s so at one with nature. It would definitely catch my eye in a book store.
Rita is such a well written, likeable, strong and highly intellectual character. I was really routing for her. I couldn’t help but love Jitty as well, despite everything he was a good Dad.
The book is detailed, interesting and so descriptive I actually feel like I’ve been to Georgetown, the pomeron, shell beach etc.
Such an emotional, heart-warming, inspiring and absorbing story which was totally unputdownable.
(Trigger warnings :- sexual assault, racism)
Thanks to #netgalley #thefarawaygirl for my ARC copy.
But this all changes when her dad remarries and her step mother Chandra puts a stop to all her fun. Rita spends a lot of time thinking about her own mum who died when she was very young and longs to know what happened to her. This book follows Rita’s journey to adulthood and discovering the truth about her mother’s untimely and tragic death.
The front cover of this book is beautiful and colourful, it perfectly captures Rita’s personality and how she’s so at one with nature. It would definitely catch my eye in a book store.
Rita is such a well written, likeable, strong and highly intellectual character. I was really routing for her. I couldn’t help but love Jitty as well, despite everything he was a good Dad.
The book is detailed, interesting and so descriptive I actually feel like I’ve been to Georgetown, the pomeron, shell beach etc.
Such an emotional, heart-warming, inspiring and absorbing story which was totally unputdownable.
(Trigger warnings :- sexual assault, racism)
Thanks to #netgalley #thefarawaygirl for my ARC copy.
July 29, 2021
Sad but so true
This book reminded me so much of Trinidad, where the same small mindedness and bigotry still exists today. I found myself taking it in small doses and to be honest, it reminded me of hurts that I thought I had forgotten. Granma reminded me of my in-laws that held the same views she did and it is true people there still think you being non Indian is a desecration of their bloodline.
Overall, what I found notable was how women are so against each other and always are quick to lay blame on the woman. It never occurred to Granma that her actions created Jitty and supported and encouraged his behavior. She lived upstairs yet he only visited her when he wanted something. His subsequent guilt over Cassie’s death felt hollow to me because he looked at her as a project and all he was concerned for was maintaining his status quo. I felt the forgiveness he received was too quickly given and couldn’t help but feel, this was another way that he could be the martyr and have everyone feel sorry for him.
Chandra reminds me of how hateful racism makes a person, to the extent that you cannot temper it even in the face of an innocent child. Rita was right, it all comes down to hair. Going to England taught her nothing when she experienced racism herself, hence it was no surprise that both she and Jitty decided that it was better to be a “ big fish in a small, insignificant, ignored and maligned one than in a shark infested ocean”. However her arrival at home quickly saw her morph into her old ways.
I was disappointed a bit at the end because it would have been nice to see what Rita decided to do with her life and what became of her and Dutch. All in all because I have been on the receiving end of discrimination because of my marriage to an East Indian, the story was not only relatable but the majority of it rang true. Overall, it is a well written story and though painful for me, it was well received.
This book reminded me so much of Trinidad, where the same small mindedness and bigotry still exists today. I found myself taking it in small doses and to be honest, it reminded me of hurts that I thought I had forgotten. Granma reminded me of my in-laws that held the same views she did and it is true people there still think you being non Indian is a desecration of their bloodline.
Overall, what I found notable was how women are so against each other and always are quick to lay blame on the woman. It never occurred to Granma that her actions created Jitty and supported and encouraged his behavior. She lived upstairs yet he only visited her when he wanted something. His subsequent guilt over Cassie’s death felt hollow to me because he looked at her as a project and all he was concerned for was maintaining his status quo. I felt the forgiveness he received was too quickly given and couldn’t help but feel, this was another way that he could be the martyr and have everyone feel sorry for him.
Chandra reminds me of how hateful racism makes a person, to the extent that you cannot temper it even in the face of an innocent child. Rita was right, it all comes down to hair. Going to England taught her nothing when she experienced racism herself, hence it was no surprise that both she and Jitty decided that it was better to be a “ big fish in a small, insignificant, ignored and maligned one than in a shark infested ocean”. However her arrival at home quickly saw her morph into her old ways.
I was disappointed a bit at the end because it would have been nice to see what Rita decided to do with her life and what became of her and Dutch. All in all because I have been on the receiving end of discrimination because of my marriage to an East Indian, the story was not only relatable but the majority of it rang true. Overall, it is a well written story and though painful for me, it was well received.
March 4, 2021
This was such a wonderful book, one that will be talked about by so many and for such a long time. I was enraptured by Rita’s character and loved watching her grow, from her spunk to her liveliness, to her personality and beliefs. In fact, my favorite parts of the novel were those that were from her point of view. The history told in this novel was fascinating to me, especially told from Rita’s perspective. The author demonstrated such talent describing the scenery and characters, I could easily envision both as I was reading, as if I were watching a movie and not reading a book - that really impressed me. Examples of this are Rita’s experiences in the different locations - I can picture it easily in my mind and could feel a shimmer of the exhilarating emotion similar to what she likely felt. The characters, especially Rita, were so lively, so colorful, they have such personalities! I loved watching Rita flourish, grow, and mature, to be happy about herself inside and out. I feel like playing with the ants when she was young to being part of the release of the turtles was even symbolic. To me, the ending was perfect, I loved it.
February 27, 2021
The Far Away Girl by Sharon Maas tells the story of Rita, a young girl in Guyana who has lost her mother Cassie due to mysterious circumstances. She lives with her father Jitty and her step-mother Chandra. Rita is content with her life of taking care of stray animals and spending time alone, but Chandra turns her life upside down. The readers get to see Rita grow up and find herself, and eventually discover the truth about her mother.
I was excited to read this book because I’ve never seen historical fiction set in Guyana. In fact, finding any genre of book set in Guyana or written by Guyanese authors is rare. I have Indo-Guyanese heritage and so finding this kind of representation is important to me. I thought that the author did a wonderful job of describing the landscapes of Guyana and it's wildlife, her love for Guyana is clear and it made me feel like I was there. The way Guyana is described is reminiscent of how my own relatives talk about it, and I appreciate that. I also appreciate the first few chapters that set up the novel and introduce the readers to Guyana and it's history. I’m glad that colonialism and the system of Indian Indenture are mentioned because acknowledging them is important to understanding Guyana.
Initially, I enjoyed this book. I like Rita, and I enjoyed the concept of including her diary entries to help tell the story. I like that we get to see Rita grow up and discover her identity, but there is one particular instance of Rita learning about her heritage I didn’t like because it felt like she was giving up on that part of her identity rather than embracing it. And although we see Rita grow into a young woman, her voice doesn’t change with her. The way Rita talks and thinks when she is a teenager and young woman is mostly the same as when she was a child.
As the novel progresses we hear more from Jitty’s POV, and I lost interest. I think my biggest problem with him is that there was no character growth. He knew he made mistakes and he knew he was a jerk, but he never tried to change. His treatment of all of the women in his life is awful. A lot of his chapters included sexist remarks and I found that unnecessary. And because of the lack of growth, his chapters also felt repetitive.
There are several instances where the fact that a character is mixed race is brought up. It felt like the book was trying to comment on what it means to be mixed race but this was not done effectively. These comments never led to greater discussions about racism, they only reflected the racist thinking of the time period the novel is set in. I understand that this is historical fiction and that comments like that were (and still are) commonly said, but if it’s not going to be used as an opportunity to call out racism then why include it at all?
The big reveal about Rita’s mother is indeed heartbreaking and is one of the best written parts of the book. But it took so long to get there, I wasn’t that invested in it anymore. It just furthered my hatred of Jitty.
Overall, I have mixed feelings about this book and give it 2.5/5 stars. I appreciate the ways it represents Guyana and Guyanese culture, but a lot of other things didn’t work for me. I wish we had seen more of Rita’s Grandmother and Auntie Penny because Rita’s visits with them were some of the best chapters. I think I would have enjoyed this more if it was only told from Rita and Cassie’s POV, and if we had learned the truth about Cassie a lot sooner.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited to read this book because I’ve never seen historical fiction set in Guyana. In fact, finding any genre of book set in Guyana or written by Guyanese authors is rare. I have Indo-Guyanese heritage and so finding this kind of representation is important to me. I thought that the author did a wonderful job of describing the landscapes of Guyana and it's wildlife, her love for Guyana is clear and it made me feel like I was there. The way Guyana is described is reminiscent of how my own relatives talk about it, and I appreciate that. I also appreciate the first few chapters that set up the novel and introduce the readers to Guyana and it's history. I’m glad that colonialism and the system of Indian Indenture are mentioned because acknowledging them is important to understanding Guyana.
Initially, I enjoyed this book. I like Rita, and I enjoyed the concept of including her diary entries to help tell the story. I like that we get to see Rita grow up and discover her identity, but there is one particular instance of Rita learning about her heritage I didn’t like because it felt like she was giving up on that part of her identity rather than embracing it. And although we see Rita grow into a young woman, her voice doesn’t change with her. The way Rita talks and thinks when she is a teenager and young woman is mostly the same as when she was a child.
As the novel progresses we hear more from Jitty’s POV, and I lost interest. I think my biggest problem with him is that there was no character growth. He knew he made mistakes and he knew he was a jerk, but he never tried to change. His treatment of all of the women in his life is awful. A lot of his chapters included sexist remarks and I found that unnecessary. And because of the lack of growth, his chapters also felt repetitive.
There are several instances where the fact that a character is mixed race is brought up. It felt like the book was trying to comment on what it means to be mixed race but this was not done effectively. These comments never led to greater discussions about racism, they only reflected the racist thinking of the time period the novel is set in. I understand that this is historical fiction and that comments like that were (and still are) commonly said, but if it’s not going to be used as an opportunity to call out racism then why include it at all?
The big reveal about Rita’s mother is indeed heartbreaking and is one of the best written parts of the book. But it took so long to get there, I wasn’t that invested in it anymore. It just furthered my hatred of Jitty.
Overall, I have mixed feelings about this book and give it 2.5/5 stars. I appreciate the ways it represents Guyana and Guyanese culture, but a lot of other things didn’t work for me. I wish we had seen more of Rita’s Grandmother and Auntie Penny because Rita’s visits with them were some of the best chapters. I think I would have enjoyed this more if it was only told from Rita and Cassie’s POV, and if we had learned the truth about Cassie a lot sooner.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2021
What a beautiful, poignant coming of age story.
Rita grew up in Georgetown, Guyana in the 70s. She was raised by her father in a big, old house and was considered ‘the wild child’. Rita passed the time reading books, writing in her diary and collecting random pets including ants and tadpoles. Nobody seemed to pay her any mind. When her father married Chandra, Rita life’s changed. She finally had some attention but not the good kind.
This story spans over a period of 2 decades. I enjoyed each phase of Rita’s life. I liked reading about her adventures as a rebel child. However, my heart broke for her as details of her struggles came to light. She especially struggled with the lack of a mother and not knowing much about the woman. Her teenage years had me smiling. Her discovery of boys and crushes was especially nostalgic. What an innocent but exciting time. We then get to witness Rita becoming a young woman and finding her identity. Something struck a chord with me when she explored her search for identity as a black woman and a professional. I loved Rita’s journey despite all the heartache and pain along the way.
Guyana is such an interesting setting. I admit that I knew absolutely nothing about the country before this book. Sharon Mass introduced me to Guyana and all its beauty including the scenic beaches and of course the people and their culture. While reading the book, I kept Googling Guyana images and I am in awe of the beautiful rainforests. Through Rita’s story, I also found out about Guyana’s sea turtles. What an amazing role the mother turtles play in this story.
This is a story about love, loss, identity, second chances and family. It will make you smile but will also break your heart. Learning about Rita’s mother definitely did break my heart. I now understand why her story was such a big secret with the reveal coming only towards the end. The pacing of the story is wonderful. It lulled me into the Rita’s journey and Guyana. I was totally immersed in the narrative. The descriptiveness and imagery of the setting was masterfully done. Crafting of the characters was so deftly done that I will always carry them with me. I don’t think I’ll ever forget Rita.
You all should read The Faraway Girl by Sharon Maas, meet Rita and travel to Guyana through the narrative. Highly recommended.
Rita grew up in Georgetown, Guyana in the 70s. She was raised by her father in a big, old house and was considered ‘the wild child’. Rita passed the time reading books, writing in her diary and collecting random pets including ants and tadpoles. Nobody seemed to pay her any mind. When her father married Chandra, Rita life’s changed. She finally had some attention but not the good kind.
This story spans over a period of 2 decades. I enjoyed each phase of Rita’s life. I liked reading about her adventures as a rebel child. However, my heart broke for her as details of her struggles came to light. She especially struggled with the lack of a mother and not knowing much about the woman. Her teenage years had me smiling. Her discovery of boys and crushes was especially nostalgic. What an innocent but exciting time. We then get to witness Rita becoming a young woman and finding her identity. Something struck a chord with me when she explored her search for identity as a black woman and a professional. I loved Rita’s journey despite all the heartache and pain along the way.
Guyana is such an interesting setting. I admit that I knew absolutely nothing about the country before this book. Sharon Mass introduced me to Guyana and all its beauty including the scenic beaches and of course the people and their culture. While reading the book, I kept Googling Guyana images and I am in awe of the beautiful rainforests. Through Rita’s story, I also found out about Guyana’s sea turtles. What an amazing role the mother turtles play in this story.
This is a story about love, loss, identity, second chances and family. It will make you smile but will also break your heart. Learning about Rita’s mother definitely did break my heart. I now understand why her story was such a big secret with the reveal coming only towards the end. The pacing of the story is wonderful. It lulled me into the Rita’s journey and Guyana. I was totally immersed in the narrative. The descriptiveness and imagery of the setting was masterfully done. Crafting of the characters was so deftly done that I will always carry them with me. I don’t think I’ll ever forget Rita.
You all should read The Faraway Girl by Sharon Maas, meet Rita and travel to Guyana through the narrative. Highly recommended.
March 2, 2021
Thank you to @netgalley and @bookouture for this ARC in return for an honest review.
What an incredibly descriptive and beautifully written book! I literally devoured it in two days. The words turned into images in my head and I quite easily became oblivious to everything around me as I drifted into the beauty of Guyana, Pomeroon, Shell Island and Kaieteur Falls. This isn’t a fast paced book, but I’m glad, because it enabled me to absorb and connect better with the events as they unfolded. You could really tell that the author has a close resonance and love for Guyana and her experience shines through in her choice of words and the depth of the narrative.
Rita came to live with her dad Jitty when she was 5 years old. However, this isn’t just the coming of age story of a little girl who discovers herself... it’s a story of human strength and weakness, of happiness and grief, of love and hate, of pride and prejudice and the underlying effects of colonialism. A story where we question what love is and the extents we would go to for the ones we love.
This kept me gripped not because it was action packed but because of a little girls love for a mother she had never met; a secret she knew her father was keeping from her and my hope that she would eventually find her way.
I liked how the author used diary entries, different viewpoints and real life news events such as the Jonestown Massacre to help us see into the mind of the characters; how the style of the diary entries changed over the years as we saw Rita grow. I loved Rita’s character and how she developed emotionally as the story unfolded.
I listened to the music mentioned and really enjoyed it... Mama Cass’s “Dream A Little Dream” was so perfect for Rita. I listened to Harry Belafonte’s “Jamaica Farewell” and “Island In The Sun” and The Mills Brothers’ “Yellow Bird.” All creating a memorable atmosphere.
The second half of the story where Rita meets her mothers side of the family hit me emotionally but was my favourite. I especially liked learning about leatherback turtles and ecotourism in this part. This book has much to teach and is a worthy read. I loved it 💛
TW: Racism, Sexual assault, childbirth
What an incredibly descriptive and beautifully written book! I literally devoured it in two days. The words turned into images in my head and I quite easily became oblivious to everything around me as I drifted into the beauty of Guyana, Pomeroon, Shell Island and Kaieteur Falls. This isn’t a fast paced book, but I’m glad, because it enabled me to absorb and connect better with the events as they unfolded. You could really tell that the author has a close resonance and love for Guyana and her experience shines through in her choice of words and the depth of the narrative.
Rita came to live with her dad Jitty when she was 5 years old. However, this isn’t just the coming of age story of a little girl who discovers herself... it’s a story of human strength and weakness, of happiness and grief, of love and hate, of pride and prejudice and the underlying effects of colonialism. A story where we question what love is and the extents we would go to for the ones we love.
This kept me gripped not because it was action packed but because of a little girls love for a mother she had never met; a secret she knew her father was keeping from her and my hope that she would eventually find her way.
I liked how the author used diary entries, different viewpoints and real life news events such as the Jonestown Massacre to help us see into the mind of the characters; how the style of the diary entries changed over the years as we saw Rita grow. I loved Rita’s character and how she developed emotionally as the story unfolded.
I listened to the music mentioned and really enjoyed it... Mama Cass’s “Dream A Little Dream” was so perfect for Rita. I listened to Harry Belafonte’s “Jamaica Farewell” and “Island In The Sun” and The Mills Brothers’ “Yellow Bird.” All creating a memorable atmosphere.
The second half of the story where Rita meets her mothers side of the family hit me emotionally but was my favourite. I especially liked learning about leatherback turtles and ecotourism in this part. This book has much to teach and is a worthy read. I loved it 💛
TW: Racism, Sexual assault, childbirth
March 6, 2021
From the very first page of this book, I was enthralled by Rita’s character. Writing in her diary (replete with spelling errors), this 7 year old records her strong feelings of anger at her new stepmother’s attempt to rid the house of Rita’s beloved dogs and ants! A strong minded child, Rita is trying to come to terms with moving from the complete freedom that her loving but absent father allowed her to house ruled by her stepmother.
Her father, Jitty is a feckless character, who though good-intentioned can never keep his promises. Her stepmother, fooled into thinking that he’s rich marries him. She had no idea that his daughter was of mixed heritage and tries to avoid being seen in Rita’s company.
Rita is saved in some ways by her neighbour and her daughter, but still struggles with the pain and unanswered questions of what happened to her mother, Cassie. Her father refuses to give her details, and any relatives from her mother’s side are turned away. Yet these aunts continue to send her toys at first and then books and cards which she doesn’t respond too. She does enjoy the books though.
In this coming of age story, we see Rita struggling with unanswered questions, facing racial prejudice because of her curly hair, not getting enough of attention from her family and always feeling like a part of her is missing. The whispers about her being a ‘bastard’ and the cause of her mother’s death, leave her feeling guilty and confused.
When an older Rita finally journeys to her mother’s family home, she feels enveloped in the love of her grandmother, grandfather, aunts and cousins. However, she still doesn’t get the answers she’s looking for.
The author has done a great job of telling this story from different perspectives. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions, the very credible characters and the deeper issues of cultural and racial prejudice that were touched upon.
This is a story that tugs at your heart. A story of loss, weak characters, bad parenting, deep prejudice but overall a story of love that can truly overcome hurt and prejudice.
I absolutely enjoyed this read that made me smile at certain parts and moved me deeply too.
Her father, Jitty is a feckless character, who though good-intentioned can never keep his promises. Her stepmother, fooled into thinking that he’s rich marries him. She had no idea that his daughter was of mixed heritage and tries to avoid being seen in Rita’s company.
Rita is saved in some ways by her neighbour and her daughter, but still struggles with the pain and unanswered questions of what happened to her mother, Cassie. Her father refuses to give her details, and any relatives from her mother’s side are turned away. Yet these aunts continue to send her toys at first and then books and cards which she doesn’t respond too. She does enjoy the books though.
In this coming of age story, we see Rita struggling with unanswered questions, facing racial prejudice because of her curly hair, not getting enough of attention from her family and always feeling like a part of her is missing. The whispers about her being a ‘bastard’ and the cause of her mother’s death, leave her feeling guilty and confused.
When an older Rita finally journeys to her mother’s family home, she feels enveloped in the love of her grandmother, grandfather, aunts and cousins. However, she still doesn’t get the answers she’s looking for.
The author has done a great job of telling this story from different perspectives. I enjoyed the vivid descriptions, the very credible characters and the deeper issues of cultural and racial prejudice that were touched upon.
This is a story that tugs at your heart. A story of loss, weak characters, bad parenting, deep prejudice but overall a story of love that can truly overcome hurt and prejudice.
I absolutely enjoyed this read that made me smile at certain parts and moved me deeply too.
July 20, 2021
Before I left home for further studies, I had a woefully inadequate understanding of history, geography or anything to do with the outside world. This was despite my father's never-ending efforts to try to get me to make an effort. With every passing year and every book written by a person from a place I know very little about, I am learning.
I first registered the country of Guyana when I was in NYC. Their names seemed Indian but spelt differently, which made me curious. This book gave me a lot of information and painted the country and its diverse and rich history vividly.
This is an actual saga. There is a dual narrative perspective of our lead protagonist, Rita's father and his past. This part could have been put into the first half together without affecting the story's overall flow. There is also a 'mystery' aspect with the backstory of Rita's life until she came to live in the house she grew up in that did not need the secretive treatment.
It is a very personal reaction; I liked reading about all the different cultures, the various prejudices that endure even after several generations have grown up together with literally no differing habits, but I had an issue investing in Rita herself. The back and forth with the father's life and the holding back of information did not help me. I usually appreciate such revelations that are only made towards the end, but I wanted it to be a straightforward story this time. I wanted to be immersed in Rita's life, sympathize and empathize with her and cheer her on to find direction in life. I did not want the constant speculation of why and what her father was hiding from her. I read this in very few sittings since the author's writing flowed as she described Rita growing up from an odd child to a very independent woman.
I would recommend this to others who want to read about the country and those who like good historical fiction.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
https://superfluousreading.wordpress....
I first registered the country of Guyana when I was in NYC. Their names seemed Indian but spelt differently, which made me curious. This book gave me a lot of information and painted the country and its diverse and rich history vividly.
This is an actual saga. There is a dual narrative perspective of our lead protagonist, Rita's father and his past. This part could have been put into the first half together without affecting the story's overall flow. There is also a 'mystery' aspect with the backstory of Rita's life until she came to live in the house she grew up in that did not need the secretive treatment.
It is a very personal reaction; I liked reading about all the different cultures, the various prejudices that endure even after several generations have grown up together with literally no differing habits, but I had an issue investing in Rita herself. The back and forth with the father's life and the holding back of information did not help me. I usually appreciate such revelations that are only made towards the end, but I wanted it to be a straightforward story this time. I wanted to be immersed in Rita's life, sympathize and empathize with her and cheer her on to find direction in life. I did not want the constant speculation of why and what her father was hiding from her. I read this in very few sittings since the author's writing flowed as she described Rita growing up from an odd child to a very independent woman.
I would recommend this to others who want to read about the country and those who like good historical fiction.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
https://superfluousreading.wordpress....
March 8, 2021
The Far Away Girl by Sharon Maas was one of the saddest stories I have read to date. Our main character is Rita. She is a mixed race girl growing up in Guyana without a mother. She lives with her father, but that's about all she gets from her father is a place to live. Rita for the most part entertains herself by taking in any strays that come into her yard or that she hears about from neighbors. The activity of Rita taking in strays and caring for those who cannot take care of themselves mirrors her life throughout the novel.
Rita's father and mother met and conceived her at a very young age and where not exactly prepared for her arrival. Her mother, Cassie, made the necessary preparations to be ready for Rita's arrival, while her father, Jitty, continued with the lifestyle he had been living. Jitty left the responsibility of Rita completely up to Cassie, that is until tragedy struck.
I found myself disgusted with Rita's father, Jitty. Not once in the story did he ever do anything for the benefit of Rita. Rita is left to her own devices, except in instances where Jitty would directly benefit. Her behaviour throughout her school years reflects that of a child that doesn't get attention at home. Rita's neighbors in fact give her more attention than her own father does. I wanted to feel compassion for Jitty, being that he lost his mother and father at a young age and maybe did not have a good example of how to be a parent, but Jitty had his grandmother and aunt as guardians and Sharon Maas illustrates that they were involved in his rearing.
The Far Away Girl does end on a good note for Rita. She does find the family life she needs and deserves and from everything she has been through has zero problem empathizing with any person or animal she comes in contact with, no matter what they are going through. The Far Away Girl taught me that we are not defined by how we were raised, but how we choose to interact with our envrionments.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy for an honest review.
Rita's father and mother met and conceived her at a very young age and where not exactly prepared for her arrival. Her mother, Cassie, made the necessary preparations to be ready for Rita's arrival, while her father, Jitty, continued with the lifestyle he had been living. Jitty left the responsibility of Rita completely up to Cassie, that is until tragedy struck.
I found myself disgusted with Rita's father, Jitty. Not once in the story did he ever do anything for the benefit of Rita. Rita is left to her own devices, except in instances where Jitty would directly benefit. Her behaviour throughout her school years reflects that of a child that doesn't get attention at home. Rita's neighbors in fact give her more attention than her own father does. I wanted to feel compassion for Jitty, being that he lost his mother and father at a young age and maybe did not have a good example of how to be a parent, but Jitty had his grandmother and aunt as guardians and Sharon Maas illustrates that they were involved in his rearing.
The Far Away Girl does end on a good note for Rita. She does find the family life she needs and deserves and from everything she has been through has zero problem empathizing with any person or animal she comes in contact with, no matter what they are going through. The Far Away Girl taught me that we are not defined by how we were raised, but how we choose to interact with our envrionments.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy for an honest review.
March 18, 2021
Rita is an animal loving, carefree seven year old when her father remarries and she meets her stepmother for the first time. Soon animals are banned from the house and Rita is pushed out by her new sibling. She yearns to find out the truth about her mother who she cannot remember. Can she persuade her father to admit the truth...?
The Far Away Girl is beautifully written. It wonderfully evokes the Guyana culture, geography and society. I found the descriptions lovely but they did lengthen the book considerably in my opinion. There is also an important message about conservation and respecting nature.
The book is divided into 3 parts. The first is Rita's childhood, often unhappy as she struggles to find affection from her stepmother. The second her teenage years as she tries to express her burgeoning femininity. The third is her young adulthood as she strives to follow her heart. In each section she needs to adapt to circumstances and the behaviour of others including her stepmother, boyfriends and her extended family.
It is sad that there is so much darkness in this book which features such a bright and vibrant setting. Rita suffers in her personal relationships due to racial prejudice and her illegitimacy. Luckily, Rita is brave and has an inner strength that radiates from her in spite of the troubles she faces.
I felt so angry with Rita's father Jitty. He admits he is a coward but his selfish and thoughtless actions affect so many characters in the book. The final part of the book is tragic as we discover the truth about Rita's mother Cassie and the circumstances in which she went to live with her father.
The Far Away Girl is a book full of contrast, love and heartache, selfishness and selflessness, cowardice and conviction.
The Far Away Girl is beautifully written. It wonderfully evokes the Guyana culture, geography and society. I found the descriptions lovely but they did lengthen the book considerably in my opinion. There is also an important message about conservation and respecting nature.
The book is divided into 3 parts. The first is Rita's childhood, often unhappy as she struggles to find affection from her stepmother. The second her teenage years as she tries to express her burgeoning femininity. The third is her young adulthood as she strives to follow her heart. In each section she needs to adapt to circumstances and the behaviour of others including her stepmother, boyfriends and her extended family.
It is sad that there is so much darkness in this book which features such a bright and vibrant setting. Rita suffers in her personal relationships due to racial prejudice and her illegitimacy. Luckily, Rita is brave and has an inner strength that radiates from her in spite of the troubles she faces.
I felt so angry with Rita's father Jitty. He admits he is a coward but his selfish and thoughtless actions affect so many characters in the book. The final part of the book is tragic as we discover the truth about Rita's mother Cassie and the circumstances in which she went to live with her father.
The Far Away Girl is a book full of contrast, love and heartache, selfishness and selflessness, cowardice and conviction.
June 9, 2021
This book is difficult to rate. I was excited to get the book and when I began reading it seemed childish and I realized it was diary.. Then it flipped to a different POV Jitty. The book is very difficult in the beginning to get into then you start enjoying it and then the ending is a lack of direction and POVs. This is a story of Rita, a young girl taken from the only family she has ever known by her father. Rita is a quiet girl that keeps to herself and doesn't let many people get to know her. Her father also lonely decides it is time he marries. Chandra is not a very nice person and is a racist, She takes out her dislike on Rita. Rita had been allowed to run wild and has a deep love of all animals. Chandra on the other hand does not like animals and gets rid of them all which makes Rita even more lonely. She wonders about the mother she has never known. Rita repeatedly asks her father, but he is deliberately vague and only tells her what he wants to share, which is not much. This book follows Rita’s journey to adulthood and discovering the truth about her mother’s family that she has forgotten and the untimely and tragic death of her mother. It also shares the racism that was prevalent during this time frame. The story itself is very good but there is much of it that is hard to read jumping back and forth. The ending is very disappointing and seemed very rushed and came out of nowhere. Through out the story there seems to be something missing in Rita's life. We suspect but never know until the end.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
March 4, 2021
Book Review 💫
The Far Away Girl by Sharon Maas
This was my 4th book by the author and one that I was excited to get as an arc. The culture and history that seeps through her novels has always drawn me in. She was born in Guyana but became a woman of the world when England, Germany and Ireland helped shape her path. The connection to her living in Germany for 40 years was also one that made me pick up her novel as I remember being that new immigrant supporting her hubby’s career in a new country with a new language to figure out.
This novel was a slow build up for me. Rita (the young girl/teen) is the daughter of a mixed race background. Her father is Indian and her mother has Amerindian/Black roots that contribute to her lack of not knowing where she belongs. Her mom isn’t in the picture (no spoilers as you don’t find out till the end) and her father has remarried a woman who verbally abused Rita from the time she meets the young girl.
This book is Rita’s journey into her past and uncovering her secrets that both her Granma and Father kept hidden. I enjoyed it but if you’re going to read one of her novels, I suggest you start with one of her others as you’ll come to understand her writing. “Of Marriagable Age” was my top of the four I’ve read of hers.
The Far Away Girl was published on Tuesday and is available everywhere. Thank you @plumepublishers and netgalley for the gifted copy in return for an honest review.
The Far Away Girl by Sharon Maas
This was my 4th book by the author and one that I was excited to get as an arc. The culture and history that seeps through her novels has always drawn me in. She was born in Guyana but became a woman of the world when England, Germany and Ireland helped shape her path. The connection to her living in Germany for 40 years was also one that made me pick up her novel as I remember being that new immigrant supporting her hubby’s career in a new country with a new language to figure out.
This novel was a slow build up for me. Rita (the young girl/teen) is the daughter of a mixed race background. Her father is Indian and her mother has Amerindian/Black roots that contribute to her lack of not knowing where she belongs. Her mom isn’t in the picture (no spoilers as you don’t find out till the end) and her father has remarried a woman who verbally abused Rita from the time she meets the young girl.
This book is Rita’s journey into her past and uncovering her secrets that both her Granma and Father kept hidden. I enjoyed it but if you’re going to read one of her novels, I suggest you start with one of her others as you’ll come to understand her writing. “Of Marriagable Age” was my top of the four I’ve read of hers.
The Far Away Girl was published on Tuesday and is available everywhere. Thank you @plumepublishers and netgalley for the gifted copy in return for an honest review.
May 7, 2021
I love this book so much, I never knew about Guayana, I didn't know anything at all, the story, the place, I only knew the name. when I was a child I was taught about it in school but after that, I think I've never heard of it again.
it was a delight to know more about it and to see the beauty in the words of Sharon Mass.
This is the story of Rita, she was just a kid when her journey started, she wasn't expecting so many changes in her life until her father decided to remarried to a woman who was not kind at all, I suffered so much with Rita, she was a great character, kind and very empathic and lovable with animals and nature.. it was terrible when her father didn't really understand her and give more power to her stepmom than to her own daughter. I really got angry so many times with him because he felt like a very passive man he was not a strong character or role model, I felt like Rita was growing and learning on her own...
Don't get me wrong her father was a nice guy but his problem was that he hid from everything and everyone even from his own daughter and that's when things when to the trash.. he was so immersed in his own guilt that didn't make this easy for Rita.. he was hiding so many secrets to her including the story about her mother.
Many characters were great and made this story so beautiful and wonderful Rita's family from her mother side were wonderful, very nurturing, very kind these are the people that for me were there for Rita all over, all the years no matter if they were not nearby or closer together, these people were love and kindness all over and that's what they showed to Rita from day one.
You're going to laugh so much with Rita especially when her stepsister does something with some green objects lol that was hilarious.
One of the most beautiful things about The Far Away Girl is the love for animals and nature, the adventures Rita had in all these magnificent places made me feel like I really want to go there and see the Shell beach and all those amazing turtles.
Definitely, in love with this book, I have only one problem please the ending was very vague can we have more about Rita's happiness.
it was a delight to know more about it and to see the beauty in the words of Sharon Mass.
This is the story of Rita, she was just a kid when her journey started, she wasn't expecting so many changes in her life until her father decided to remarried to a woman who was not kind at all, I suffered so much with Rita, she was a great character, kind and very empathic and lovable with animals and nature.. it was terrible when her father didn't really understand her and give more power to her stepmom than to her own daughter. I really got angry so many times with him because he felt like a very passive man he was not a strong character or role model, I felt like Rita was growing and learning on her own...
Don't get me wrong her father was a nice guy but his problem was that he hid from everything and everyone even from his own daughter and that's when things when to the trash.. he was so immersed in his own guilt that didn't make this easy for Rita.. he was hiding so many secrets to her including the story about her mother.
Many characters were great and made this story so beautiful and wonderful Rita's family from her mother side were wonderful, very nurturing, very kind these are the people that for me were there for Rita all over, all the years no matter if they were not nearby or closer together, these people were love and kindness all over and that's what they showed to Rita from day one.
You're going to laugh so much with Rita especially when her stepsister does something with some green objects lol that was hilarious.
One of the most beautiful things about The Far Away Girl is the love for animals and nature, the adventures Rita had in all these magnificent places made me feel like I really want to go there and see the Shell beach and all those amazing turtles.
Definitely, in love with this book, I have only one problem please the ending was very vague can we have more about Rita's happiness.
July 8, 2021
WoW Sharon Maas books are all written beautifully; with so my love behind each book you.....become apart of the novel. So when her latest book The Far Away Girl came out, I had to find a day for myself, turn off my phone and chillout in my comfy chair and open my kindle! Oh Boy The Far Away Girl did not disappoint! It was just beautifully written throughout. It was a very powerful book and is about racism, prejudice, self discovery, conservation, humanity etc. The main character within this book is called Rita who is seven years old, mixed race little girl who loves all animals, and life. Rita is growing up in Guyana without a mother and lives with her father, but that's about all she gets from her father is a place to live. Rita for the most part entertains herself by taking in any strays that come into her yard or that she hears about from neighbours. Things are about to change around her when her father marries someone called Chandra. Rita's life and everything around her changes.....WoW
One thing I will say - you will need tissues.......
I highly recommend this latest book and looking forward to read more books from this brilliant author,
Big Thank you to netgalley and bookouture for this advance reader copy of Sharon Maas’ latest novel,
One thing I will say - you will need tissues.......
I highly recommend this latest book and looking forward to read more books from this brilliant author,
Big Thank you to netgalley and bookouture for this advance reader copy of Sharon Maas’ latest novel,
March 5, 2021
What a delightful read this was!
The Far Away Girl is a coming of age story with little Cinderella feel in the beginning. I couldn’t put the book down once I got about half way in and my emotions were in all different directions! I definitely recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Seven year old Rita lives wild amongst her animals spending her days at the sea and climbing trees. Her life changes drastically when her father remarries and her new step mother takes away everything that brings her joy. Even her own father is distracted and seems to care more for her new sister then he does got her. Rita longs to know what happened to her mother and the family she has never met. She decides to travel to the rainforest in Guyanese to find out what happened to her mother, discover a new land, and hopefully family that will embrace her. She finds the warmth and comfort from her grandmother but also a hidden secret her father was keeping from her.
So beautifully written I am looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
The Far Away Girl is a coming of age story with little Cinderella feel in the beginning. I couldn’t put the book down once I got about half way in and my emotions were in all different directions! I definitely recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Seven year old Rita lives wild amongst her animals spending her days at the sea and climbing trees. Her life changes drastically when her father remarries and her new step mother takes away everything that brings her joy. Even her own father is distracted and seems to care more for her new sister then he does got her. Rita longs to know what happened to her mother and the family she has never met. She decides to travel to the rainforest in Guyanese to find out what happened to her mother, discover a new land, and hopefully family that will embrace her. She finds the warmth and comfort from her grandmother but also a hidden secret her father was keeping from her.
So beautifully written I am looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
May 28, 2025
Read the World book: Guyana 🌍
I found this novel set in Guyana for my monthly read the world book and decided to give it a go. It took me a long time to read but that doesn't reflect how good it was, merely that I didn't give it enough time. Because, in fact, it was very good indeed!
I knew nothing about Guyana before reading this and this book gave me some insights into the country and its history which I really appreciated. Beyond this, the story itself was an excellent one: exploring love, meaning, regret, pain, guilt and everything in between. I loved the characters and loved following them on their journeys to find the truth.
I'd highly recommend this novel!
I found this novel set in Guyana for my monthly read the world book and decided to give it a go. It took me a long time to read but that doesn't reflect how good it was, merely that I didn't give it enough time. Because, in fact, it was very good indeed!
I knew nothing about Guyana before reading this and this book gave me some insights into the country and its history which I really appreciated. Beyond this, the story itself was an excellent one: exploring love, meaning, regret, pain, guilt and everything in between. I loved the characters and loved following them on their journeys to find the truth.
I'd highly recommend this novel!
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