Brez
(Without) Book not yet available in English
Summary:
This is a special and original book: it comprises two texts, namely a novel and a play, despite being intended for a teenage readership which does not necessarily enjoy reading all that much. The plot sets out with a problem as its protagonist Simon keeps getting in trouble with the law for stealing people’s phones, selling them on and the like. Like father, like son – the former is doing time in prison while Simon’s mother has found a new partner. To top it all off, Lejla, with whom Simon is madly in love, clearly does not tolerate Simon’s actions. (source: publisher)
Edited by: Mestna knjižnica Ljubljana
Comment:
The story is characterized by a dynamic plot comprising several thrilling situations, some of which are full of action while some are more “static”, like family standoffs and dialogues between Simon and Lejla. The language the couple uses is real, convincing, lively and has just a little bit of spice due to the judiciously inserted slang. The mostly sombre and tense mood is occasionally interrupted by apt, imaginative, and fresh ways of phrasing, which might be one of the author’s strongpoints. For Without, Janja Vidmar was awarded first place in a best original drama piece for children and young adults competition held by the Ljubljana Puppet Theatre. (source: publisher) The book is targeted at the age range 14+, but it is also suitable for younger readers who are capable of critical independent reading.