Bone Talk

Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal 2019.

Shortlisted for the Costa Award.

How does a boy become a man? Samkad lives in the Philippines a hundred years ago, and he can’t wait to answer that question. He’s dying to earn his own shield, spear and axe. But first he’ll need to prove himself. How does a girl become a warrior? Samkad’s best friend, Luki, also wants her own shield, sword and axe. But girls are forbidden all of that. Until a stranger arrives in the village, bringing frightening news: a people called ‘Americans’ are bringing war to Samkad’s home…

• A thrilling historical novel of war, courage and colonialism

• Explores the culture and story of the Filipino Bontoc people

• Candy Gourlay is the acclaimed author of Shine and Tall Story

• She has been nominated for the Carnegie Medal and Guardian Prize