The devil you know

The devil you know
By Leonie Norrington and illustrated by Michael Camilleri

Set in the Northern Territory, The devil you know focuses on Damien and the recent return of his father, a violent bikie named 88. Damien is haunted by memories of past violence as he awaits the inevitable conflict at home, but finds that due to his drawing his popularity at school is increased. This gives him strength to argue for respect at home with his Dad. Aspects of sexual abuse are hinted at in this novel. Damien has to struggle against his own violent tendancies, handed down from 88, who in turn was abused by his own father. Readers will enjoy the graphics in the novel as well as the hopeful conclusion and realistic characters.

Genre Australian fiction; Realistic fiction
Appeal elements Character-driven; Issue orientated; Emotionally intense; Contemporary
Ages 10-13

Publisher information Crows Nest, N.S.W.: Allen & Unwin 2009; 218 p.: ill.; 20 cm.