- Published: 26 February 2018
- ISBN: 9780143772422
- Imprint: Penguin
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 368
- RRP: $15.99
The Nature of Ash
- Published: 26 February 2018
- ISBN: 9780143772422
- Imprint: Penguin
- Format: Paperback
- Pages: 368
- RRP: $15.99
Mandy Hager has set a new standard in thrilling, action-packed stories for NZ teens with her new book, The Nature of Ash, and I’ll say it can proudly stand alongside these international, best-selling dystopian thrillers. In my opinion, Ash is one of the most authentic male teen characters in New Zealand fiction. Mandy Hager is absolutely spot-on with Ash’s voice, his actions and decisions. Mandy Hager has created a story and characters that will stay with me long after I’ve put the book down. I’m sure that teenage boys in particular will relate to Ash and his struggle to do what’s right.
Zac Harding, Some of my best friends are books blog
Hager's recent dystopian Blood of the Lamb trilogy edged her close to the cross-over audience. This new novel straddles any remaining divide with utmost confidence... The novel is best described as a political thriller... and it is defintiely a page-turner, one of those novels that refuse to leave your hands. Political, economic and ecological issues sizzle in the action, dialogue and reactions of the characters. Just as often they lie in the chilling specific detail.... but the strength lies in Hager's attention to how her characters feel. The heart of the book is Ash's love for his less able brother. Mikey must be one of the most successful characters in recent local writing. he's funny, heart-rending and, in this bleak view of the future, strangely brings a smile to the reader, a lift of the heart. In the end, the novel challenges the reader to think about politics and family in equal measure... The Nature of Ash is a novel very hard to forget.
Barbara Else, New Zealand Books
The Nature of Ash is a phenomenal book, which deserves the highest praise for its wonderful characters, unique voices and almost-unbearable suspense. With a fast pace that has you racing to reach the end, the tension and thrills of Mandy Hager’s novel are sure to grip its readers. You will be stunned by the sharp twists; this chilling roller-coaster read will have you on the edge of your seat. I highly recommend The Nature of Ash to older teens – adults, too – this is not a tale you will forget in a hurry.
Tierney, Booksellers NZ Blog
It is not often you would describe a YA novel as a blockbuster but in this case it is totally appropriate. From my Collins Internet-linked dictionary – Blockbuster – a very successful, effective of forceful person or thing. This 364 page, totally gripping Wellington-set thriller has been getting rave reviews around the country and having now read the story myself I am not at all surprised. Action-packed, fast paced stuff that I read it in two long sittings. Watch out for it in next year’s book awards.
Beattie’s Book Blog
LIANZA Young Adult Fiction Award
Winner • 2013 • Young Adult Fiction
Storylines Notable Young Adult Fiction Award
Awarded • 2013 • Storylines Notable Young Adult Fiction
NZ Post Children's Book Awards
Finalist • 2013 • Young Adult Fiction category