Reviewed by Sarah Tegerdine
Sunshine on Vinegar Street is the latest verse
novel from Karen Comer.
Freya’s entire world is turned on its head
in a flash when she and her Mum relocate to Abbotford, an inner-city suburb of
Melbourne. Basketball is Freya’s life and heart and being the new girl at
school is proving more difficult than expected. Constantly feeling on the
outside, she decides to pour everything she has into taking out the best spots
in her school’s representative basketball team. However, it is tricky: some of her
teammates are not exactly welcoming and contribute to her on going anguish as
she tries to fit in.
Freya often reflects on how life was
before the move, having both parents close by her basketball team and best
friends. The big question in front of Freya is, will she find her place in
Abbotsford? Or will she remain perpetually stuck like Audrey, in the town’s
symbolic Skipping girl sign.
First and foremost, Sunshine on Vinegar
Street addresses change and everything that comes with it. Themes around different
family structures, facing, and overcoming fears, bullying, and making new
friends also feature strongly. As a verse novel, it is swift and engaging. With
its bite-sized scenes and easy to read chapters, I believe it would also be of
particular interest to reluctant readers.
Sunshine on Vinegar Street is thoughtful and
heart-warming. Its relatability and humour will entertain readers of all ages.
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