Artichoke Hearts

by Sita Brahmachari
Artichoke Hearts cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Children's Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 851
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-09-21
  • ISBN: 9780330545037
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2011-01-21
  • Formats: 36
  • Reviews: 3
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Paperback • £7.99
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Artichoke Hearts by Sita Brahmachari is a heartfelt novel that explores the delicate balance of life and death through the eyes of twelve-year-old Mira. As her beloved Nana Josie's health declines, Mira begins to uncover the secrets of her family and friends, while also keeping some of her own. The story is a celebration of friendship, culture, and life, with a touch of the mystical. Mira's journey is one of self-discovery and resilience, as she navigates the complexities of grief and first love, all while growing closer to the enigmatic Jide, a boy with a troubled past. The novel is praised for its insightful and honest portrayal of the human experience, making it a winner of the Waterstone's Children's Book Prize. Brahmachari's writing beautifully captures the essence of Mira's world, filled with chaos, art, and the outspoken nature of her family. The story is not just about loss but also about the strength found in friendship and the beauty of life's simple moments.

Reviews
BookTrust · 2021-08-19
insightful 4.50

Brahmachari's debut novel is funny, sad, tender, and tough, with a great understanding of multicultural life and humor.

The reviewer was impressed by the author's ability to weave together humor and sadness, creating a story that is both tender and tough. They noted the author's background in theatre, which shines through in the vivid and engaging storytelling. The book is praised for its authentic portrayal of multicultural life and its ability to tackle complex issues with sensitivity and humor. The reviewer found the characters and their experiences to be deeply moving and relatable, making it a standout debut novel.

Quick quotes

    Brahmachari's debut novel is funny, sad, tender and tough.

    She writes with great understanding and humour about multicultural life.

    A vivid and engaging story that tackles complex issues with sensitivity.

The Guardian · 2012-05-09
touching 4.50

The characters are so well developed that with little actual description, the reader is immersed in their emotions and experiences. The book is both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging.

The reviewer was struck by how well-developed the characters are, noting that despite minimal description, they feel incredibly real and relatable. This depth allows the reader to connect deeply with the story. The book is praised for its ability to make the reader feel as much as think, tackling complex emotions and experiences with nuance. The reviewer highlights the book's emotional depth and the way it explores themes of life and death, making it a poignant and memorable read.

Quick quotes

    This book really makes you feel as well as think.

    The characters are so well developed that with little actual description, Sita Brahmachari manages to make them feel incredibly real.

    It's a story that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

Kid You Not Podcast · 2011-06-26
heartwarming 4.00

The book is described as a touching, fun, and emotional teenage novel that thoroughly deserves its award and will hopefully receive many more.

The reviewer found the book to be a wonderful blend of humor and deep emotion, making it a standout read. They appreciated how the story balances lighthearted moments with more serious themes, creating a rich and engaging narrative. The reviewer believes the book deserves its accolades and hopes it will continue to receive recognition. The characters and their journeys are highlighted as particularly compelling, making the book a must-read for young adults.

Quick quotes

    It's a touching, fun, emotional, deep teenage novel.

    Thoroughly deserves its award and will hopefully receive many more.

    A story that balances humor and depth perfectly.

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