The
title of this book intrigued me immediately.
The
main character, Sam is fifteen and recently torn from the comfort of
his city life to live in the alien landscape of Cornwall. His family
are broken and struggling after the death of his father. He’s is a
self-confessed nerd and all round good kid who is about to experience
the thrills of danger. He discovers these in his new-found passion
for surfing and his even greater passion for the local bad girl,
Jade.
As
time goes on their love grows - the emotions swelling and receding
like the waves off the Cornish coast. Sam’s grief and Jade’s
obsessions create conflict and add interest to their relationship.
Teen romance is a tough ask from any writer but Chris Vick handles it
perfectly - no cringy moments or squirmy dialogue. But, their story
takes an unexpected turn and grows darker and more menacing.
The
Cornish setting is a perfect metaphor for their romance – both
beautiful and dangerous. I was born and brought up in Cornwall and
although I was never a part of the surfing culture, I had friends who
were. The passion and commitment for this sport rings so true here.
This
book seems to be aimed mostly at the “girl” market which is a
pity – the well-rounded characters will appeal to everyone. Most of
all - it’s an exciting read. Oh, and I learned that the intriguing
title is because a “kook”
is
an aspiring wave rider, a nerd, or someone who tries - and fails - to
mimic the surfing lifestyle.
Perfect.
Sharon
Tregenza writes Middle Grade mysteries. Her latest book ‘The
Jewelled Jaguar’ is published by Firefly Press.
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