Rowan the Strange

Story

Just as the outbreak of the Second World War begins, Rowan, a young boy, gets diagnosed as a schizophrenic. He always knew that he was different, distracted by the thoughts in his head, which sometimes lead him to do terrible things.

His family love him dearly and want to do everything they can to help him. When given the opportunity to send Rowan away to receive the newest treatment they don’t hesitate. But they are unaware that the treatment is experimental and no one knows what effect it will have on him.

Why we chose it

An extraordinary and unusual young adult historical novel set in the early days of experimentation with electric shock therapy at the very beginning of the Second World War.

Where it came from

Julie Hearn wrote her first novel at eight years old. She began her career as a journalist, then started a degree in Education, later changing to English.

Rowan the Strange is linked to two of Hearn’s previous books. Rowan is the son of Hazel and grandson of Ivy but the novel works as a stand alone story.

Where it went next

Rowan the Strange was shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal in 2010.

Associated stories

Julie Hearn has written a number of novels including Follow Me Down, The Merrybegot, Ivy, Hazel, Wreckers and Dance of the Dark Heart.