Reviewed By Deborah Lloyd for Readers’ Favorite
“Moments in life shape us. Family secrets write my story more than living my life, Driew thought.” These lines from DOWN UNDER: Kussins by M.W. Adams, describe the essence of this fictional work. Part of the Family Tree Novel series, this story’s main character is Driew (“weird” spelled backwards) Qweepie, a rising seventh grader. The Qweepie family moved to Dawson Springs, a small, poverty-stricken town in Kentucky, from sunny, hot Florida. In addition to parents Marq and Nieve, Driew has four ‘sinisters’ and ‘bothers’—Killiope, Pester, Payne and Gayle. He becomes friends with Gulia, and twins Able and Cain Poe. The secrets held between these families add unexpected twists and turns, as well as insights into life-changing moments.
Utilizing Outback, American and Qweepie vernacular, M.W. Adams has written a highly imaginative story in Down Under: Kussins. Another unique technique throughout the book is the use of moments, rather than the more typical chapter titles, for each section. Mr. Adams has excellent and intriguing writing skills. The interweaving of a variety of language and word structures, magical, dream-like beliefs, and a host of fascinating personalities evolve into an incomparable tale. There is mystery with Driew’s gift of a secret sing-song magic. And, his family facilitates an amazing transformation in this small town, beginning with kind acts and culminating in the creation of the successful SeaSuns store. There are layers of meanings within this very creative story, and a serious reader will be challenged and thrilled to explore these many layers. It is a book to be savored.
