Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Room

By Emma Donoghue

Although set in America this story may have been inspired by the recent Elizabeth Fritzl case in Austria. Narrated by 5-year-old Jack, he and his mother live in Room which is approximately 12 feet square. Drawing you in page by page he describes each day's routine. A compelling story from beginning to end. A story of control, abuse, love and awakening experiences. I thought Ma was a strong character but 5-year-old Jack turns out to be the hero of this story.  Recommended ****

Jack and his mother had the loveliest relationship. The language he used was so amusing - no superlatives. His mother was truthful and told him facts which he absorbed like a sponge but in a childlike way. I found it quite scary if I compared it to a modern day kidnapping. I must say I've never read a story like this before.  Recommended *****

The author has brilliantly portrayed the young boy's imagination and his mother's efforts to give him a normal routine each day. The final part of this clever story deals with the obvious problems after reunification with the outside world.  Recommended ****

I liked the way Jack's life was organised in such a small area, the stimulation Jack was given through a strict programme to keep him fit and light entertainment, books he was given to read, and his mother's determination to keep her child from her captor was really moving to me.  Recommended ****

I found it very difficult to get to grips with the 'voice' of the child narrative but I thought the book tackled a very difficult subject quite well.  Not sure I would recommend ***

This story is much like the real life case which happened in Austria a few years ago. For this reason there was a feeling of déjà vu throughout. I was beginning to find it somewhat tedious but then the story changed course and became more interesting. There are telling observations of the strange ways of grown-ups through the eyes of a small child. Very readable.  Recommended ****