On Becoming Georgie

The issues of immigration, questionable multiculturalism, fitting in, peer pressure, crime links to financial gain, expectation of parents, friendships/illness/death and aging, fossil fuels, recycling and climate differences of opinion, sexual identity and +/- tolerance were all covered at some time woven into character profiles in a believable way. Georgie at times seemed too “wise” but then children who have faced ill health, prolonged hospitalisation and their own mortality, can be wise beyond their years. Like a jigsaw puzzle all of the pieces, especially individual behaviours fitted into place with understanding and a contented ending. This time of life- early teens- is becoming more troublesome as the traditional family unit and cultural units expectations change in the years this book was written. Many topics were aired, even if the reader agrees or not, it is a great thing to open the discussion door - especially in classrooms!

On Becoming Georgie gives us an insight into the difficult and different choices a teenager has to make in order to fit in the sometimes frightening world, whilst dealing with illness, bullying, discrimination, drugs around him or her.
Having a background in the judiciary I recognised particularly the difficulty of sorting out what seem to be facts and jumping to conclusions based on wrong assumptions. Also the book shows, and Georgie finds out that behind attitudes - such as what seems to be selfishness, bravery and pride - there is self doubt, anxiety and sadness.
The book, though probably meant to be read by mostly young adults, can be enjoyed by many like myself, a grandmother of five. Very recommendable.

On Becoming Georgie is a novel that touches on many contemporary issues that are part of Australian life. The central character, Georgie, “nearly 15 “, has the maturity that evades many of her peers, due to a large extent, to her long periods of ill health. The attendant patience and wisdom that is associated with hospital visits and relationships forged in ICU , are well described and Fry demonstrates her knowledge of and compassion for those whose health is precarious.
Because of Georgie’s extended absences she feels an outsider in many situations and is placed in a class with other outsiders, such as Albert and Bodhan. With these 2 characters Fry is able to introduce issues of indigenous and refugee students . The text is very current as Bodhan has fled the Ukraine . There is scope for much discussion using this novel . Personal issues affecting identity and parent / teenage relationships could be explored as could be global issues, climate change, racism, gay rights, as well as the insidious creep of drugs into all aspects of society. The text becomes a gripping crime novel in the final section but its greatest strength for a world weary, cynical teenage reader is that it is ultimately a very positive tale that celebrates humanity and extols the importance of resilience .

Highly recommended! I’ve just read “On Becoming Georgie” and think it’s a great read for YA fiction fans, and older readers who live and/or work with teenagers. It’s hopeful and positive at a time when many of us – young and older - feel a sense of despair and confusion about what’s happening in the world.
From my perspective as a mother and a Social Worker, it’s inspiring, enjoyable, thought-provoking, and a useful resource for parents, teachers, school counsellors, other professionals and anyone else who’s interested in the well-being of young adults.
The story could be a helpful conversation starter for discussions about topics that teenagers and adults often find difficult to raise with one another. It’s less confronting to start talking hypothetically about how characters in a book handle some of life’s challenges (eg. grief over the loss of a friend, illicit drugs, cultural differences, sexuality, relationship problems).
Georgie’s an appealing character; she’s compassionate, kind, and eager to be a positive influence for her friends and community. Through the story, Georgie gains more self-awareness, confidence, and wisdom about making difficult choices when coping with some of the harsh realities of life in a cosmopolitan coastal town near Sydney. The world could be a better place if we had more “Georgies”!