A superb, unflinching portrait of a family in crisis, as seen through the eyes of a good kid on the brink of manhood...a truly compelling 'coming of age' story that is unsentimentally told. However, the ending was satisfyingly, subtly moving- and absolutely pitch-perfect. Highly recommended.' - Raven's Parlour 'Life, love, and loss in rural Australia, as experienced by one unfaltering young man. It's as wise and tender as any book I've read in years. Jarrah Dundler writes in unsentimental prose that heightens the book's sense of humour and builds pathos for its young hero. It kept me hooked for hours at a stretch.' Rohan Wilson, bestselling author of <i>The Roving Party </i> 'A devastating portrait of youth, rage and tenderness. Trysten Black is an enormous achievement and Dundler is a writer to watch.' Kristina Olsson, acclaimed author of <i>Boy, Lost</i> Before leaving for war in Afghanistan, Shaun Black gives his little brother Trysten a mission of his own. Keep out of trouble. Trysten tries, but with Mum hitting the bottle harder than ever and his dad not helping, Trysten responds the only way he knows how, with his fists - getting into a fight at school and lining up for another one with his uncle who's come to stay. When the family receives news that Shaun will be home for Christmas, Trysten is sure that good times are coming. But when Shaun returns, Trysten soon realises he has a whole new mission - to keep Shaun out of trouble. <i>Hey Brother</i> tells the story of a tough kid from the bush whose world comes crashing down on his shoulders. But with his own blend of fury, resilience and deadpan humour, Trysten proves to be up for every challenge. 'This is a wonderful coming of age tale with themes of family, the power of friendship and first love. Full of frailty, hope and wry humour, this is a powerfully written story with huge heart and a spirited hero in Trysten Black.' - Jenny Barry, owner, BooksPlus