LoveReading4Kids Says
March 2018 Book of the Month | A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month March 2018
A funny and touching family story with a difference just because the Lotterys themselves are a unique and diverse family leading a deliberately alternative life and with more complicated relationships than is usual. With four parents from different cultures, seven children and five pets for a start, things are bound to be lively. When an estranged grandfather with dementia joins them, a whole load of new situations arise as well as new scope for understanding and kindness. Written with great verve and a deep understanding of families and what holds them together The Lottery Plus One is both fun and thought provoking. ~ Julia Eccleshare
A Piece of Passion from editor, Venetia Gosling: ‘it’s a smart, funny and wise novel with a wonderful family set-up and family dynamic which readers will love. Emma has done a wonderful job of reflecting the world conveying it through the warmth and muddle of this very modern family.’
Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for March 2018
The Lotterys Plus One by Emma Donoghue
King Coo by Adam Stower
Splish, Splash, Ducky! by Lucy Cousins
We Are Not Frogs! (Little Gems) by Michael Morpurgo
The Sorry Tale of Fox and Bear by Margrete Lamond
Song of the Dolphin Boy by Elizabeth Laird
What Do People Do All Day? (50th anniversary edition) by Richard Scarry
Bird House by Libby Walden
Bug Hotel by Libby Walden
Alone Together by Clayton Junior
The Lost Penguin by Claire Freedman
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Emma Donoghue Press Reviews
The Lotterys are a very recognisable family - very quickly the reader feels that they have known each member for years. That's part of the enchantment of Donoghue's writing - and the spell she weaves with this narrative is inescapable. She has written a family of eccentrics and individuals, but readers from all backgrounds will find themselves identifying with and understanding these wonderfully written characters. Caroline Hadilaksono's silhouettes and illustrations resonate with the dynamic chaos of the Lottery family and perfectly complement the story Donoghue is telling, creating a warmth and a sense of home that is as compelling as it is beautiful.The story itself could not be more relevant to the turbulent times the world finds itself in - the true meaning of belonging, home, tolerance and acceptance. Offbeat, funny, wise and deliciously different, Emma Donoghue's first book for children is an essential read. -- Becky Long INIS
Emma Donoghue... creates a warm-hearted, eccentric family community that encompasses all ages - and all backgrounds... the writing is assured and her characters emerge full of life and in glorious technicolour. For confident readers who want a thoroughly enjoyable read that is both thoughtful and fun this must be recommended. -- Ferelith Hordon Books for Keeps
However, this is a story with understanding and acceptance at its heart and she comes to realise that he does belong with them after all - 'He's our plus one'. There are many characters in this story - each one a complete individual. From the parents to the children with Aspen's eating issues and inability to keep still, Brian/ Briar's gender fluidity and Oak's developmental delay - each is a part of this loving and chaotic family and each has their own clear identity. There is also a rich tapestry of cultural diversity at play throughout the story which threads its way through as part of family life, customs, food and festivals. Showing that family is what you make it, this is a wonderful story about relationships and family. -- Sue Wilsher Reading Zone
This engaging tale is moving without veering into sentimentality. For all the Lotterys apparent eccentricity, the novel delves into universal themes of family relationships that will resonate with readers from all backgrounds. -- Kirkus, starred review
The story itself could not be more relevant to the turbulent times the world finds itself in - the true meaning of belonging, home, tolerance and acceptance. Offbeat, funny, wise and deliciously different, Emma Donoghue's first book for children is an essential read. INIS reading guide
A warm-hearted, curious and hugely appealing slice of unconventional family life, told with considerable wit and charm Teach Primary
Funny, charming and full of heart Irish Mail on Sunday
There is a rich tapestry of cultural diversity at play throughout the story which threads its way through as part of family life, customs, food and festivals. Showing that family is what you make it, this is a wonderful story about relationships and family. Reading Zone
A smart, thoughtful reader of 10-plus will enjoy the gentle humour in this tribute to the modern family. Irish Independent
It is a hoot spending time in this Utopia. Observer
I loved the Lotterys! Wonderfully wacky, full of humour and lovely soft touches. Award-winning author, Elizabeth Laird
Told with utter charm and a lightness of touch BookTrust
A warm-hearted, eccentric family community that encompasses all ages - and all backgrounds... the writing is assured and her characters emerge full of life and in glorious technicolour. For confident readers who want a thoroughly enjoyable read that is both thoughtful and fun. Books for Keeps
This is a story that captures the true meaning of family. INIS Reading Guide
Donoghue vividly captures the Lotterys chaotic but always loving home Publishers Weekly