Cut Loose is a novel for young adults (15+). It is set in Sumatra Indonesia and follows the adventures of two young Australian brothers, Ethan, 14 and Jon, 19. It is availble for purchase from my publisher, or by contacting me directly (I will sign it for you - makes a nice gift!). Teacher's notes will be available here sometime soon.

The first review of Cut Loose:

Cut Loose’is an absorbing, fast moving teenage novel that would appeal to the 15 years + student.  It is set mainly in Sumatra and touches down briefly in Bali. This novel depicts the thrilling and sometimes traumatic experiences of two teenage brothers travelling alone for the first time.  It successfully evokes the rich texture of life in Indonesia: the everyday lives of the people who inhabit the land, drenching torrential rains, tropical rainforests, chaotic transport, Padang restaurants, the tourist industry, housing and much more.  A smattering of travel Bahasa Indonesia is used throughout the book which supports the language taught in the classroom.  In addition, many current issues that could be followed up in English or SOSE lessons are dealt with sensitively.  These issues include drugs and alcoholism, pollution, wildlife conservation, illegal logging, relationships and personal identity.  Whilst it is an excellent resource for a transdisciplinary curriculum, some schools may find the strong language used and drug references inappropriate for their educational setting.

SUARA VILTA, 2009

To purchase Cut Loose, contact me or my publisher.

My email address is: lucychesser@hotmail.com .

The publisher's website is:
http://www.ginninderrapress.com.au/page2/fiction.html 
- just scroll down until you see me listed.