Kaz Delaney, The Reluctant Jillaroo. Allen & Unwin 4 Jan 2016. 352 pp., $16.99 ISBN 9781925266061
Not having read any of Delaney’s previous novels, I don’t know how this book compares in style; however her latest novel, The Reluctant Jillaroo, was a jumpy read. Protagonist Heidi’s narrative is all over the place, which makes sense given she’s in a place she doesn’t want to be, and is completing new challenges. Even though it’s her own fault and her own choices, she’s still not totally committed.
The Reluctant Jillaroo starts off the way many books with identical twins begin: one has to stand in for the other. Harper breaks her leg tripping over Heidi’s skateboard, left inconveniently in a hallway. While Harper is able to guilt Heidi into pretending to be her at a ten-day jillaroo (and jackaroo too, of course) camp, Heidi knows she isn’t the enthusiastic horse-woman her sister is.
This set-up leads to Heidi’s adventures on the farm. It’s clear that Delaney herself spent time experiencing mustering, fence repairing, and bull roping, because we are given much detail of Heidi’s attempts to fit in, some of it quite funny. While this will please fans of the genre, I suspect others, having been tempted by the terrific cover, might be disappointed that so much of the narrative is dominated by camp antics.
There is a mystery to solve, but it builds slowly, and is really only seriously considered a threat in the last section of the book. This element is interesting and is ultimately resolved too quickly. I would have liked the tension to be more central to the plot.
The love story is another device, and Heidi’s potential mate, Chaz, is thoughtful and generous. Heidi’s biggest concern is his reaction to her deception, and she should be concerned. It’s a tricky line to walk – trying to act like her sister, while still trying to be herself. This is complicated when a competitor from Harper’s school turns up, and is in danger of exposing Heidi’s ruse. This problem adds a further layer of suspense, and works well with Heidi’s already growing doubt about what’s she’s trying to do.
The Reluctant Jillaroo is a perfect step-up for teenage girls interested in horses, who had lots to read in early teen years, but I suspect might struggle to find similar contemporary books as an older reader.
Reviewed by Trisha Buckley