Shadow Seeker – Reviews

Have I mentioned that I write books from the title?  Well, that's exactly how Shadow Seeker started.  Just two words.  And 71,000 words (plus two years, 28,000 words ditched and nine edits) later, the book was finished!

Shadow Seeker came out in February 2002 (which was only a few weeks ago as I write this), so naturally I haven't had much feedback on it.  This is always the terrible part - you feel in your gut that the book is strong, but are you just kidding yourself?  You've worked through the night, gone to bed at 4.30 in the morning a hundred times, but did you actually get it right?  So what if you've sweated blood over every single word  - will kids actually like it?  Or, better yet, love it?

Along the way, the people you work with give you feedback.  Here's what some people (including my agent in New York and my editor at HarperCollins) have said so far.

Of course, they have to say nice things, they work with me!  But if you have read Shadow Seeker and enjoyed it, I would love to hear from you.

'The revised Shadow Seeker is simply marvellous, especially the mounting tension associated with the paper mill campaign. You've made it so exciting and dynamic and I think Tess is the stronger for it. I hope you are pleased.' 

(Elizabeth Harding, my agent at, Curtis Brown in New York.)

'I did not think it possible to surpass Dreamcatcher, but Jen McVeity has done it. She has addressed current and relevant themes that will touch kid's hearts and show them that their dreams and passions are understood by our 'adult' world. A message with power about human passion and human relationships.' 

(Dr Anne Flood, director, Tall Poppies, an expert in gifted and talented kids.)

'We are loving Shadow Seeker.  I have so much admiration for your writing as it gives kids a handle on how contemporary issues play out in society.' 

(Pamela Kirke, she helped me proof read the manuscript by reading it to her son.)

'I'm writing to let you know that I think Shadow Seeker is really terrific. The voice is spot-on, the action well paced, the plot is original, clever and interesting, the characters well formed and the ending is moving - I cried when poor Tess had to try and control that demonstration; I really felt her. Above all, I really enjoyed the story, became involved with the characters and wanted to keep turning the pages. It's a great book, Jen, and I can see that you've worked hard at it. It has turned out brilliantly.'

(Lisa Berryman my editor at HarperCollins)

Oh, and just out, here are a couple of the first reviews.  So good – so far!  (But I'm still holding my breath for the next few months…)

...      'McVeity's page-turning storytelling will captivate and inspire ...'

(The Age, 10 February 2002)

¨      'A valuable book about issues of the environment, and more importantly it empowers kids to act. I loved the ending in particular.'

(Susanne Gervay, children's author)

¨      'Absolutely thrilling.'

(John Weeks, radio presenter, Spectrum)

¨      'McVeity's writing captures the reader from the very first word and doesn't let them go until the book's more than satisfying ending. Eco-vandals watch out. Jen has empowered a new generation of eco-warriors.'

(Robert N. Stephenson, Altair Australia)

¨      'I thoroughly recommend this book. The story held me to the very end... The huge cast of characters is skilfully drawn, each has their own characteristics and foibles, and these McVeity uses expertly... The whole is set for a stunning and fast-paced climax and conclusion.'

(Fran Knight, Magpies)