Madapple

Christina Meldrum's Madapple is a book that I am still mulling over long after I have finished.  It is the story of a 15 year old girl, Aslaug,  that is brought up by her very unique mother in almost complete isolation.  Her mother is very sick and relies on plants to try to heal herself.  When her mother dies, Aslaug's isolation is torn away from her and she goes to live with family that she doesn't even know.  This is not an easy time in her life and her story is riveting - fill of interesting twists and turns.  I loved that the story was told from a very unique perspective - one chapter is in the present - it takes place at Aslaug's murder trial.  And the opposite chapter is a look back at her life - and this is where we find the story of her life.  This book is very much like nothing I've ever read before - I did like it - it got a bit technical in some parts with long descriptions of some plants and what medicinal value they have - and in other parts with history into gnostic gospels, eastern religions, etc. but really an interesting storyline.  Definately for the older teen - but a good read.  Also reviewed by Amanda. (Thought you might be interested in reading her review as it was the one that got me interested in the book.)