This is the compelling story of Emily, a 12 year old growing up in 1960’s South Africa with argumentative parents, a sister who seems to unknowingly outdo her and an African Zulu warrior who is both her idol and saviour. The Zulu takes her into a world of happiness, courage and stamina. Emily faces situations involving infidelity within her family.  These incidents all seem to occur when a family of gypsies came to stay with her family. At the sight of Peg, the mother with a python round her neck and the son Streak with his chameleon in tow, Emily is startled by their affinity to animals.  But as the story progresses, she warms to Streak and begins a new phase in her life.

 Linzi Glass encompasses the uncertainties of growing up, by immersing herself in the character with this outstanding first novel. With the added cultural insights and African sentiment that runs throughout, it’s near impossible not to be drawn into this story. Hopefully Glass will continue to do what she does best – playing on your emotions.