Jessica's Ghost - Andrew Norriss

"Francis has never had a friend like Jessica before. She's the first person he's ever met who can make him feel completely himself. Jessica has never had a friend like Francis before. Not just because he's someone to laugh with every day - but because he's the first person who has ever been able to see her"

This is an outstanding book, exceptionally eye-opening and a very quick read. I read this book in one day as it just sucked me in.

It hooked me from the first paragraph, when Francis sits alone on a school bench and a girl sits next to him. Surprised that he talks to her, it turns out that Jessica is a ghost and that Francis is the first person she's come across who can see and hear her.

A very beautiful friendship instantly develops, as Francis reveals some of his secrets to his new friend and together they seem to help each other with their problems. Worried about her son, Francis's mum tries to have him befriend a new student, who has problems after leaving a previous school. Then a huge revelation... One I hadn't seen coming and that instantly changed the book.
 
The story and characters are charming and quirky; I loved Andi particularly, however they are all really well realised. It’s the best kind of ‘misfits’ book, and perfect for those sorting out where or whether they fit in with their peers.

Without being didactic or dogmatic, the book has a clear message of self-acceptance which is exceedingly valuable.
 
In terms of the ‘darker’ content, I am so impressed with how this is handled: it didn’t feel inappropriate, heavy or awkward and I would have no hesitation in sharing this book with children regardless of their existing understanding of depression and suicide.
 
Otherness is something that many teenagers and adults feel acutely, and Andrew Norris' latest book meditates on the importance of acceptance. A book to be read by any teenager who feels different or separated from the norm in particular. With a gentle approach, Jessica's Ghost deals with darker themes with compassion. Jessica, Francis, Andi and Rollo will stay in my mind for a long time.  

Light of touch and yet rich in depth, this novel explores issues from fitting in to depression and even suicide through a perfectly pitched story for the 9-12 audience.