I loved this book and, since I’ve finished reading it, I find I’m missing the characters. They seemed so real I’d like to know what they’re up to now. I don’t remember having that experience with any other book I’ve read – except where it’s part of a series and then you just wait for the next book to come out. The two main characters named in the title are brother and sister sharing an apartment in Auckland.

The family gatherings in the book were often funny and revealed aspects of the people and relationships which you weren’t expecting. It was good to have a list of characters at the front to refer to and sort out how everyone was connected and who was who, especially where nicknames were used. I like the names – and their origins add another layer to the story.

I thought this book was a fantastic achievement particularly for a first novel. The young author uses colloquial language appropriate to the age group of the main characters and that added realism and charm. I borrowed the book from the library, but if my book shelves weren’t so full I’d be tempted to buy my own copy.