Tall Story

Finished December 6
Tall Story by Candy Gourlay
This children's novel is set in England where Andi lives with her parents, who are both nurses. Andi's mom is from the Philippines and she has an older half brother who her mother has been trying to bring over for years. Andi's parents have finally made the move to a home of their own, just as she finally works her way onto the basketball team at school. Now she must start all over at a new school.
Back in a small village in the mountains of the Philippines, Bernardo is living his life with his aunt and uncle. He too is fascinated by basketball, although not as much as his friend Jabby. Bernardo has grown tall and many people in the village treat him as a reincarnation of a legendary giant who brings good luck to the village. Nardo himself isn't sure what he believes.
When Nardo is finally approved to come live in England, things move quickly. How does the village react to his leaving? how does he feel leaving the only place he has ever lived, even if it does mean rejoining his mother? how does Andi feel about suddenly having a big (very big) brother? A lot happens to this family and Andi and Nardo are at the centre of the action.
A good story, with interesting characters.