The third novel from bestselling Waterstones Children’s Book Prize shortlisted author Sarah Moore Fitzgerald. Set in Dublin and Siena, with its dizzying, dare-devil Palio horse race, this is a story about taking chances, being brave and learning the best way to see the world.
Some people step through a wardrobe to find adventure, but Minty follows the twisty-turny trees into Nettlebog. There she finds Ned Buckley – the moody, mysterious boy who never talks at school. As Minty’s world disintegrates around her she searches for refuge in Nettlebog, and she discovers more about Ned: he’s able to ride wild horses. And he knows things about the human race that will save her.
Or there’s a very good chance at least.
This book follows Sarah Moore Fitzgerald’s debut novel BACK TO BLACKBRICK and Waterstones Prize shortlist THE APPLE TART OF HOPE.
Some people step through a wardrobe to find adventure, but Minty follows the twisty-turny trees into Nettlebog. There she finds Ned Buckley – the moody, mysterious boy who never talks at school. As Minty’s world disintegrates around her she searches for refuge in Nettlebog, and she discovers more about Ned: he’s able to ride wild horses. And he knows things about the human race that will save her.
Or there’s a very good chance at least.
This book follows Sarah Moore Fitzgerald’s debut novel BACK TO BLACKBRICK and Waterstones Prize shortlist THE APPLE TART OF HOPE.
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Reviews
Sarah Moore Fitzgerald cements her reputation as one of our finest storytellers with A Very Good Chance, a gorgeously written and completely engrossing tale set in Ireland and Italy of teenage friendship, fracturing families, social division, and bareback horse-racing.
Part mystery, part sweet romance ... Young readers will be hooked from the get-go.
This is a story about taking chances, being brave and learning the best way to see the world
Opens our eyes to some of the challenges facing the Traveler community and the blinkered attitudes of their settled neighbours
The language is lyrical and evocative and vivid. The book itself is short and sharp but unpacks itself in a way that makes it seem huge and expansive
The wonder and magic of Minty and Ned's burgeoning relationship is beautifully handled ... A Very Good Chance is brave and thoughtful with cracking characters. It deserves a wide readership and confirms Moore Fitzgerald's place as one of Ireland's most interesting new children's writers.
This lovely life-affirming, lyrical tale is perfect for bridging the path between middle grade and teen fiction
Poignant, intelligent and a wonderfully compelling read
A life-affirming read about friendship across a social divide and being brave and following your own lights
A Very Good Chance is a beautifully written story that will capture your attention and your heart
A sensitive read for the 9+ age group