Eric Hopkins

Amber is 19 year old and her brother Guy [yep that's the name] come to Toronto after a misfortune to study and live with their uncle Ian. But Uncle Ian doesn't come to pick them up at the station and neither does he pick up the calls that Amber incessantly makes. After a detour to his place, that Amber has visited just once previously, they find out that he is left his apartment and abandoned them for good. Amber has always wanted independence and the responsibilities of being a young adult, and having Guy there with her was just a coincidence.

Let me first tell you, that not being from the culture, I didn’t understand a lot of terms, but it was not that bad that I didn’t understand anything at all. Amber wants to be responsible and get both their lives sorted out, but her main problem is, she can’t and would not ask for help. She is one of those typical 19 year old's, who want the freedom, the fun of making your own choices; just that all the choices go wrong, very wrong. The novel successfully depicts the confusion of a 19 yr old girl, who is left alone with a brother in an unknown city with limited cash flow. One other thing, was the language and the depiction of the surroundings and the work-culture, when you First join; that was good too. Amber talks about architecture. That is interesting as I have never viewed any building with this kind of passion. Apparently she comes to Toronto to learn Architecture.

I felt really- really bad for Guy. In his sister’s pursuit of setting things right, Guy is totally neglected. Initially he believes his big sister would make things right, which fails and it gets frustrating for him. Now all he gets is a "Shut Up" on any logical question he asks Amber. I feel really sad for him. Being younger sibling doesn't mean you should not be heard. The ending is sad and is an open one.

I totally couldn't understand Amber's attitude. The first thing she should have done was to call up Janelle [the social worker]. Sometimes, you just want to shake her up and tell her to go freaking call the social-worker, and when she does the last time, it is all gone so wrong.

It is an YA fiction novel. I give it 3 on 5 Stars.… (plus d'informations)

Drinkwater, by Erik Hopkins
232 pages. Crackjaw Publishing
978-0978202668

Amber, a young girl of nineteen accompanied by her younger brother Guy have arrived in Toronto. After misfortune changes their lives they arrive in Canada to meet their Uncle Ian, who they will now be living with.

After some time passes, it becomes apparent, Uncle Ian, has shirked his responsibility and forgotten them. Amber tries to reach her uncle by phone with no success. Rather than calling their dutiful case worker Janielle, Amber decides she can handle this situation. With the independence and eagerness of a young owl learning to fly, she takes flight. Without her Uncle’s help, Amber faces the challenge of self sufficiency with a sense of pride and determination.

The story unfolds as Amber settles into her role as caretaker and provider. Hopkins captures the eager essence of Amber’s desire for freedom and independence commonly shared by most teens of her age. Amber faces life on the streets of Toronto with rose colored glasses only to find out they will become shattered lenses. Her relationship with her brother Guy is an interesting story within the story as she drifts further from her original role as his guardian. How will Amber handle the harsh realities of the streets and take care of her brother?

Hopkins builds suspense throughout the novel in the disappearance of Amber’s brother. Amber receives a rude awakening and a true life lesson is realized as the story ends. You will weep for Guy and empathize with the stubborn and spirited Amber. Erik Hopkins leaves us with many questions. Could there be a sequel in the future? This coming of age novel is realistically relevant, unpredictable and heartfelt. An outstanding debut. Highly recommended.
… (plus d'informations)