Kurt is a disillusioned case worker struggling in an under-resourced child protection system. When he takes on the case of Gecko, a sixteen-year-old with a traumatic past and a shaky future, he is determined to make a difference. But the best of intentions are not enough. Meanwhile Libby, a creative and intelligent girl in her final year at school, grapples with the obstacles that life places in her path. Set in Melbourne and brimming with memorable characters whose paths cross in unexpected ways, The Best of Intentions is a sensitive and compelling portrayal of young people at risk and of the well-meaning but often ineffective child protection and mental health professionals charged with their care.
This was a very enjoyable read. The book deals with the way people deal with adverse circumstances. The lives of several characters are explored and they gradually converge with a surprising twist in the plot. The characters were believable and sympathetic. If you are from Victoria as I am you will also enjoy the glimpses of familiar places and events.
A compelling book that although slow at the beginning gradually builds as morals are tested and the story reaches a gripping ending.
"A moving work of literary fiction. Van Hoeydonck reins in maudlin sentimentality, letting the reader feel his story organically through a crisp narrative and effective pacing. He is expert at conveying mood and feeling through action: choice words create mood and atmosphere, while the action is gripping in its own right, making the story a feast for the senses. A vital and timely novel." Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★★
A story with real insight into vulnerable youth and the caseworkers who are limited by the system in the provision of effective support. The story is tense, human, and engaging. The characters are convincing, and situations are real - born out by daily news items.
Gilbert Van Hoeydonck answers questions about his early years, his writing process and The Best of Intentions, his novel about kids at risk.
