Twelve-year-old Mira comes from a chaotic, artistic and outspoken family where it's not always easy to be heard. As her beloved Nana Josie's health declines, Mira begins to discover the secrets of those around her, and also starts to keep some of her own. She is drawn to mysterious Jide, a boy who is clearly hiding a troubled past and has grown hardened layers - like those of an artichoke - around his heart. As Mira is experiencing grief for the first time, she is also discovering the wondrous and often mystical world around her.
The winner of the Waterstone's Children's Book Prize 2011, 'Artichoke Hearts' explores the delicate balance, and often injustice, of life and death and celebrates friendship, culture and life.
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"I don't give 5* lightly. But this book was absolutely incredible. It has probably the nicest cover art that I've seen in a lot while (I love bright, bright beats dark). I loved that it dealt with the issue of death but was such a light and beautiful story too. The fact that it was about a twelve year old didn't bother me at all, in fact.. I prefered it that way. The romance involved was so sweet and innocent, something I think what childhood love should be about. I really recommend this book. It's beautiful and fantastic!" — Claire (5 out of 5 stars)
"I don't give 5* lightly. But this book was absolutely incredible. It has probably the nicest cover art that I've seen in a lot while (I love bright, bright beats dark). I loved that it dealt with the issue of death but was such a light and beautiful story too. The fact that it was about a twelve year old didn't bother me at all, in fact.. I prefered it that way. The romance involved was so sweet and innocent, something I think what childhood love should be about. I really recommend this book. It's beautiful and fantastic!"
" Brilliant! It was at the bottom of the book pile-what a mistake that was. "
" thuis book made me cry. a lot. it was really well written but i thought that some parts were a bit unnesscesary. all the characters had there own stories and they were combined into this beautifully written tale. i loved the characters and the idea of the artichoke was beautiful. "
" I really enjoyed this book. I thought it would be in the style of a diary but its not. "
" really enjoyed it. it is about a 12 yr old girl called mira leverson whos grandma is dying and how she deals with loss and her new boyfriend jede. really good 10-13yrs age group. really enjoyed it ! "
" Absolutely beautifully written piece about growing up and learning to accept death. "
" I just really found it boring x "
" One of the best books i have ever read. and i have read some great books! "
" I love this book, I have read it about four times at this rate. It's like Judy Blume but even sweeter. I cried and laughed and most of all, I wanted to read it again "
" Thoroughly enjoyed this great story. Recommend it to all. Shortlisted for this year's Waterstones Children's Book Prize. "
" A beautiful, tender story of a girl helping her artist Grandmother to prepare for death. Not at all sentimental but gentle and life affirming. "
" I found this book a bit difficult to understand at first but then I really enjoyed it. "
" couldnt put it down!! made me cry,smile, and laugh. "
" this was very realistic and connects with real life situations. "
" a complete book ... friendship,romance, family and sadness.. "
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