Say Say Say

Lila Savage

This moving and reflective story, though not driven by plot, action or dialogue, gives the reader much to contemplate. Ella is not a character I particularly warmed to, but admired for her honest approach to her role - she knows she falls short and strives to be better. Really nails the dynamics of the relationship between a carer and the family she has been hired to help.

Extract

Ella coaxed into being an idea of who Jill was, who she had been; she sculpted it inventively from the rough material she was given. This was necessary, because Ella felt the need to love Jill, and it was easier to love a person. She tried to imagine the life Jill and Bryn had shared before the accident (seldom referenced, never elaborated on - Ella never heard exactly what had happened) that had changed their lives so abruptly.

Parallels