Grace Notes

It’s been a while since I shared one of my reads, but this one is too good not to share.

Grace has a passion for playing violin. Crux has a passion for creating street art. Despite being talented at what they do, both are needing to hide elements of their art practice from their parents. Crux is inspired to paint a portrait of Grace after viewing an Insta post of her playing violin on a deserted tram. When Grace sees the portrait she seeks out Crux. Their relationship develops based on mutual understanding of the challenges they face.

This verse novel is set in Melbourne in 2020 amidst COVID lockdowns, and captures many aspects of the period from Dan’s pressers, learning from home, and contact tracing, to nursing home lockdowns and the load on medical workers. I loved the quintessential Melbourne flavour to it, particularly having spent some time in the city recently. The art and musical elements, written together in such a poetic style, were also thoroughly enjoyable to me. The cover is a perfect representation of the essential elements of the story.

Grace Notes covers some big issues and includes some emotionally wrenching moments. However, the story is uplifting and gracious, full of charm and hope, and encouraging readers to follow the dreams of their hearts. Highly recommended and well deserving of its place on the CBCA shortlist.