The Great Death - Softcover

"John Smelcer's The Great Death is an outstanding piece of writing and undoubtedly my favourite novel of the year." (Lindsey Stainer The Bookseller)

"A must-read by an exciting new novelist: definitely one to watch." (Jake Hope The Bookseller)

"I had to remind myself that this is based on the real experiences of Smelcer's grandmother and her sister, their story of survival brought movingly to life in this fine novel." (Sue Baker Bookseller (teenage category preview))

"The storytelling skilfully combines these two elements of realism and folktale, becoming both a practical and spiritual handbook of survival. It has much to offer children of nine to thirteen. Remote as it may seem from their own lives, its core experiences are universal." (Books for Keeps)

"Vividly written and eventful tale." (Carousel)

The visitors from downriver had strange pale skin and blue eyes, but they left a deadly sickness of red spots and fever. Thirteen-year-old Millie and her younger sister Maura were the only survivors. As the first snowflakes fell the dogs were turning wild, and it was clear that the two girls must leave to find a new home. They loaded up a raft to take them away, and so began an epic journey through the harsh snowy landscape.

This is an extraordinary story of courage, commitment and survival.