I didn't expect it to match his first journey and wasn't disappointed in the expectation, although the book was satisfying enough. I met Mackinnon through Jack de Crow and thought well enough of that to order this book in. Pung tackles big issues with a light touch.’ - Herald Sun Read more “Schoolgirl Lucy Lam was one of this year’s best characters – smart, hardworking and brave. ‘Based loosely on Pung’s own experiences, the book has an unmissable ring of truth to it, making it all the more compelling and horrifying.’ - Sydney Morning Herald ‘In her debut novel successfully dramatizes the high stakes when an impoverished Chinese girl is parachuted into the private system … Pung’s forceful writing reveals the diverse and often difficult lives of her immigrant compatriots too often hidden away from us by masks of discretion.’ - The Age ‘A candid and powerful exploration of family, culture and class … it is those of us who take our fortune and privilege for granted that I wish would read this powerful book.’ - Readings Monthly ‘Pung continues to impress with her nuanced storytelling Laurinda will surely resonate with anyone who remembers the cliquey, hierarchical nature of the playground.’ - Sunday Age Funny, horrifying, and sharp as a serpent’s fangs.’ -John Marsden ‘Alice Pung totally nails it with Laurinda. ‘Biting yet compassionate’ -Books of the Year, Australian Book Review Notable Book of the Year for Older Readers, Children's Book Council of Australia 2015 Shortlisted in the 2015 Indie Awards, 2015 Inky Awards, 2015 Australian Book Industry Awards, 2016 Barbara Jefferis Award, and the 2017 Young Australians Best Book Awards (YABBA). Winner of the Ethel Turner Prize for Young People's Literature: 2016 NSW Premier's Literary Awards As she watches the Cabinet at work, and is courted by them, Lucy finds herself in a battle for her identity and integrity.įunny, feisty and moving, Laurinda explores Lucy’s struggle to stay true to herself as she finds her way in a new world of privilege and opportunity. At its secret core is the Cabinet, a trio of girls who wield power over their classmates - and some of their teachers.Įntering this world of wealth and secrets is Lucy Lam, a scholarship girl with sharp eyes and a shaky sense of self. Laurinda is an exclusive school for girls.

No “Ladies College” after it, of course the name was meant to speak for itself. When my dad dropped us off at the front gate, the first things I saw were the rose garden spreading out on either side of the main driveway and the enormous sign in iron cursive letters spelling out LAURINDA.

Laurinda by alice pung