Kun hiljaisuus valehtelee
(When Silence Tell Lies) Book not yet available in English
Summary:
Riku receives a surprising text on his 16th birthday. It’s from Luka, who introduces himself as Riku’s brother. Riku has always thought that he is an only child for both of his parents: Japanese mom Keiko and Finnish dad Joonas. Turns out that his dad has another child, Luka, who has grown up with his alcoholic mother. Joonas has been meeting his 20-year-old son only in recent years. Riku is disappointed and sad that his parents hadn’t told him anything about his brother. Luckily Riku has his best friend Matias and swimming practices to keep him level-headed. Riku and Matias are both part of the competitive swimming coaching group and have won the Finnish Junior Swimming Championships for relay together. However, Riku doesn’t like competing at all and plans to quit the group soon.
Edited by: Lastenkirjainstituutti
Comment:
The story follows Riku and the big changes and decisions in his life. The book describes Riku’s feelings after the family secret is revealed: he is shocked and sad, and doesn’t understand why the matter had to be kept secret. In addition to family worries, Riku also has some problems with his friends. He plans to quit competitive swimming, but can’t tell his friends in the same group. Riku finds out for himself that it’s not always easy to talk about your secrets. The novel is written in easy language.