Tom survived a devastating flood that claimed the lives of her sister and parents. Now she lives with Bill in his old shed by the lake. But it’s time to move out—Tom is pregnant with Bill’s baby.
Jonah lets her move in with him. Mrs Peck gives her the Fishmaster Super Series tackle box. Nana is full of gentle good advice and useful sayings.
And in her longing for what is lost, Tom talks to fish: Oscar the carp in the pet shop, little Sarah catfish who might be her sister, an unhelpful turtle in a tank at the maternity ward. And the minnow.
The Minnow is a moving and powerful coming-of-age story with a whimsical element that belies the heartbreaking truth of grief and loss. Tom is a character you will never forget.
‘Quietly powerful and compelling. A tender, lyrical book about love, loss and starting over.’ - Meg Rosoff
‘Diana Sweeney gives Tom a believable voice: innocent, headstrong, anxious but determined…this strong debut will resonate with young people and adults alike.’- Books+Publishing
‘The Minnow has all the breath-holding intensity and aching beauty of swimming underwater.’- Romy Ash
‘This is an extraordinary, original, rich and surprising novel…Tom is an unforgettable character.‘ - Magpies
‘The Minnow is one of the most unique novels that I have had the pleasure of reading…a wonderful story of love, loss, becoming an adult, and learning to live.’- Books for a Delicate Eternity
‘I love this book.’- Notebook Sisters
‘An intriguing tale.’- Weekend Herald
‘Unusual but immensely readable…An unconventional story about resilience, friends, pregnancy and family. Verdict: Winner.’- Herald Sun
‘The writing in this debut novel has a thoughtful authenticity and the loose ends are resolved with restraint. It is a memorable and beguiling cautionary tale for mature teens and older readers.’ - Australian
‘Beautiful writing. Breathtaking imagery. Questions of reality…[an] utterly incredible debut. It made me want to be a better writer.’- The Loony Teen Writer
‘Where most grief feels like you are drowning underwater, this lyrical debut novel approaches loss in a wonderfully strange way. Sweeney gives the protagonist an innocent yet determined and unforgettable voice in this unique coming-of-age book. Prepare to have tears running down your cheeks like little tadpoles.’- Yen Magazine