The Free-Range Bookclub
Bookclubbers without boundaries in Nelson, New Zealand
Holy Days – Joy Cowley
READ FOR BOOKCLUB
Chosen by Suzy
A motherless boy seeks solace in an old convent and the three nuns who reside there.
✎ “Joy Cowley is one of New Zealand’s best known authors, her children’s books widely published for use in our primary schools. But as Holy Days dictates, she can also turn her hand to adult fiction.
“Brian’s mother has died and he misses her terribly. He finds refuge at the local convent and forms an unlikely friendship with the remaining three nuns. The enjoy the relationship of a young person in their lives and seek to make his deepest wish come true.
“Cowley’s novel for adults has the same calm, touching story touched with affectionate mischief and a sense of the wonder in small things that characterise her work for younger readers. A novel built with skill and grounded with goodness.”
✎ “A gentle and lovely book, tinged with sadness and hard family realities. Paired with Navigator, Joy Cowley’s memoir, Holy Days is an even more beautiful.” – Suzy
✎ “The imagery is well developed in this book and I found myself able to see the village and the convent straight away. A heartwarming story of a young boy’s deepening relationship with three nuns and the adventure they plan for him. This book is beautifully written and filled with the warmth of love and affection. A feel good story that leaves you smiling.” – Jo
✎ “This adult novel has the same accomplished style of Cowley’s children’s books. With a wonderful plot and the gorgeous Brian, I couldn’t help but fall in love with it.” – Rachel
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Published 2001
Penguin Books
184 pages
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