Ice Dancer by Alex Cotter is a powerful story of family, friendship and overcoming grief. Once I picked it up, I couldn’t put it down – finishing it in a day.
Dina is struggling to find herself again following the death of her older sister, Sasha. The only place she feels free is out on the ice. When she and her two younger brothers travel from their home in Wales to stay with their Aunt JJ in Sheffield, Dina battles anger, loss and loneliness. Her passion for skating leads her to the local rink. There she finds friends, enemies and secrets about her family’s past.
After a shaky start, Dina discovers an opportunity to overcome her fears and follow her dreams – to skate in a real show and perform skills she never imagined. With the Steel Trophy and the Winter Wonderland Showcase approaching, she throws herself into practice. A welcome sense of belonging and hints of happiness are marred by bullying and blackmail. Secrets and sabotage lead to a mystery only revealed in the final moments.
Aspects of Sheffield’s unique history, Dina’s great grandmother’s role in keeping steel factories going during the Second World War and the inspiration of strong women daring to force change (even when at risk of getting in trouble) combine with quotes from Shakespeare to create a hugely engaging story. Readers are challenged to consider, “…is it better to fight for change and lose, or stay quiet and still have a chance to win.”
Thank you to Nosy Crow for this lovely book!
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