Beautiful Mess - Softcover

Claire Christian is a novelist and playwright who lives in Brisbane. She’s a former high school teacher and advocate for diversity. She has had three plays published by Playlab, and her play Bloom was shortlisted for the Griffin Award in 2009. She was one of the YWCA Queensland’s 125 leading women of 2013. Christian is a writer who wants to talk about mental health in a way that feels real and connected to the actual experiences of young people.

'Tender and absorbing, this debut novel from Australia tackles challenging topics―including suicide, self-esteem, anger management, cutting, and depression―with an open and loving hand. It deals with myriad emotions and allows the healing process to be organic. The sweetness of the characters rises above the darkness they carry, and their honest desire for acceptance and to sort out their lives will resonate with a wide range of readers.’―Booklist; 'The characters are engaging, and their emotional struggles are palpable...While the majority of the plot is dark and grim, support from caring adults and siblings brings about an ending that is realistic and hopeful. ­VERDICT Recommended for most public library young adult collections.’―School Library Journal; 'This page-turning novel displays a great deal of artful charm.’―Kirkus; ‘A raw, affecting coming-of-age story that starts a conversation about mental health.'―Readings;
'A stunning read. Claire Christian has delivered a raw and moving debut with beautifully flawed, well-drawn characters who you can’t help but fall in love with.’―Gabrielle Tozer;
‘There are no easy answers in this book; its scenes explore debilitating anger and frustration, first sexual experiences and the importance of therapy in recovery. But there is deftness of touch in the writing and some genuinely funny moments. This is a strong, character-driven story from a talented playwright and novelist, which tackles some hefty issues with lightness and humor. It is an impressive debut.’―Books + Publishing