Bleak, depressing, short sentences, minimal character development, not sure how this book got such high praise.
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3 1/2 stars - actually quite a moving book. Although quick and very easy to read with its short sentences, the author evokes a strong sense of place (a remote fishing community in Tasmania) and skilfully develops her characters. So why not 4 stars? Because these are the ones (for me) that mean “I really enjoyed this and you would too” books.
This book was bleak and portrayed the sad world of three brothers living with a dysfunctional father. It reminded me of Tim Winton novels, which I find overly descriptive. A worthy text, but not my preferred choice of novel. So if you’re all about the style and craft of writing, you’ll probably appreciate this one. ( )

Excellent writing, emotionally powerful, well developed characters, fantastic read … these are all phrases used by our members while discussing Past the Shallows by young Australian author Favel Parrett.
To say this book was well received would be the understatement of our reading year. The family turmoil and abuse experienced by young Harry had us all feeling wretched, yet at the same time we loved this beguiling little fellow and his youthful optimism. To tell a story from the mind of a seven year old is no easy task and we all applaud the skill Parrett shows in doing just that. But the praise does not stop with Harry. We found the list of supporting characters lifts the story quality to even greater heights, with George being a favourite (although, not especially liked, Auntie Jean got a good airing also!).
We found ourselves discussing not only the more obvious themes (child neglect, family violence, infidelity, sibling bonds) but also the many undisclosed details within the story’s framework. We unearthed quite a few questions left unanswered, and we were all more than happy to express our own ideas as to what did or would happen.
Of the few negative comments that found their way into the discussion was the idea that the disturbing aspects of the story did not make for pleasant reading and that ‘true life issues’ are not necessarily what we wish to read about. There was agreement here, but the overall perception was that such a well written book overrides the undesirable aspects and that a powerful story, well told, goes a long way to enriching the readers experience.
Packed with beautiful descriptive passages, emotional plot and compelling themes, Past the Shallows (a great metaphor for life, we decided) worked its magic on us, having us happily wading into its depths.
Tuesday Book Club

Good Australian fiction has a way of telling the worst of stories in a truly engaging form. Parrett’s sense of place, her characters, emotive perspective and remarkable insight challenge the reader to wander the territory without the heartbreak.
That is not to say we did not feel for the brothers Joe, Miles and Harry. On the contrary, we felt deeply for their plight, and hoped for, if not the best outcome, at least a better one.
But there is no fairytale ending here, unless you manufacture it yourself! The many loose ends raise more questions than they answer and although frustrating for some of us, most felt happy to come to their own conclusions.
We enjoyed a lively discussion on many topics raised by this novel. First and foremost child protection and rights, then small town attitudes and gossip, family relationships (and the complexity of) and lastly, the author’s writing style and what drives a great novel.
More than enough for any bookclub to attempt in one evening, wouldn’t you agree?
Top quality reading is our opinion and highly recommended. Wade past the shallows and dive in!
Monday Night Book Club ( )

I know I'm a bit late to the party, but I've just read Past The Shallows by award winning Australian author Favel Parrett. Set in a small town on the coast of Tasmania, Harry and Miles live with their father; an abalone fisherman bitter and angry after the loss of his wife. Harry and Miles are largely left to fend for themselves and try their best to stay out of their father's way.

Miles and their older brother Joe enjoy surfing and feel at one with the sea, while Harry - the youngest - is afraid of the water. Parrett loves to surf and her personal knowledge and love of surfing is evident within the pages.

Shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Award in 2012, Past The Shallows is a coming-of-age story about brotherhood. It's a slim novel and very easy to read with short chapters and large font. On the flip side it's a haunting and often sad story.

Harry was easily my favourite character although I did want to know more about George Fuller.

I borrowed my copy from the library and was excited to discover it was signed by the author. Highly recommended and a worthy contribution to my Australian Women Writers Challenge and Aussie Author Challenge. ( )

Couldn't finish this book; beautifully written, evocative landscape of coastal Tasmania but so sad; child abuse, alcoholism, poverty. Bookclub members will tell me how it ended. I stopped when the father almost drowned one of his sons to teach him a lesson. ( )