Books By Diane Guntrip
linktr.ee/dianeguntripTwelve year old Amanda should be the happiest girl in the world. She is the daughter of wealthy, successful parents, lives in a six bed-roomed mansion and attends a prestigious private college.
What more could she ask for?
However, Amanda is besieged with problems. She is lonely, 'fat and frumpy', suffers from depression and has low self-esteem. BUT, her biggest fear is of Cassandra and her gang of bullies who torment her every waking hour.
The catalyst in the story enters in the form of Emma, a paraplegic girl, gifted with a marvellous singing voice. Then enters the Fairy Godmother, Amanda's grandmother, who grants Amanda's greatest wish.
Follow Amanda's journey from 'poor little rich girl' to realising her dreams.
Amanda's story is one of empowerment. Her story opens up possibilities to discuss the many topics which are important to our young people of today or it can be read purely for enjoyment.
CLICK ON THE BOOK COVER TO READ A CHAPTER
AVAILABLE IN PAPERBACK
From Barnes and Noble, Target US online, Book Depository, Dymocks online and from your favourite online bookstore.
To order books visit:
www.linktr.ee/dianeguntrip
ZON
www.amazon.com/dp/0646925504
What more could she ask for?
However, Amanda is besieged with problems. She is lonely, 'fat and frumpy', suffers from depression and has low self-esteem. BUT, her biggest fear is of Cassandra and her gang of bullies who torment her every waking hour.
The catalyst in the story enters in the form of Emma, a paraplegic girl, gifted with a marvellous singing voice. Then enters the Fairy Godmother, Amanda's grandmother, who grants Amanda's greatest wish.
Follow Amanda's journey from 'poor little rich girl' to realising her dreams.
Amanda's story is one of empowerment. Her story opens up possibilities to discuss the many topics which are important to our young people of today or it can be read purely for enjoyment.
CLICK ON THE BOOK COVER TO READ A CHAPTER
AVAILABLE IN PAPERBACK
From Barnes and Noble, Target US online, Book Depository, Dymocks online and from your favourite online bookstore.
To order books visit:
www.linktr.ee/dianeguntrip
ZON
www.amazon.com/dp/0646925504
If you have read ‘Dear H’, you will not want to miss reading the sequel, ‘The Daisy Chain’. Written to appeal to 13 years and above.
Having won a scholarsip, Amanda begins her vocal studies as a boarder at the prestigeous St Celia’s Academy of Music. This involves leaving home for the first time and being confronted by a whole new environment, She continues to write in her diary to ’H’, with whom she shares her innermost feelings.
At the Academy, Amanda quickly makes friends with Immie and Simon, She is adamant that no one will suffer at the hands of bullies as she was at her previous school and that if she hears of any bullying incidents, she will form a support group for those being bullied.
After being introduced to Jessica, she is spurred on in her efforts to make a start on forming the Daisy Chain anti-bullying group.
Along the way, Amanda introduces us to new characters, Tilly a senior student who is sadly forced to leave the Academy and Charlotte, who suffers with a stutter. The story would not be complete if there was no reference to Cassandra the bully who featured in 'Dear H'. Catch up with with her and read of her dreadful downfall.
Not forgetting the social side of the Academy, the excitement of preparations for the Christmas Ball and the final year concert, Amanda chronicles it and much more in ‘The Daisy Chain’.
An action packed story that will leave the reader wanting more.
CLICK ON THE BOOK COVER TO READ A CHAPTER
AVAILABLE IN PAPERBACK
Available from Barnes and Noble, Target online, (US), Book Depository, Dymocks online and from your favourite online bookstore.
Australian residents may order directly from the author. Please use the Contact Form and leave a message.
Amazon link:
www.amazon.com/dp/0648082210
AMAZON
If you loved reading The Daisy Chain, you'll not want to miss finding out what happened to Tilly after she was forced to leave St Celia's Academy of Music.
Seventeen-year-old Tilly, a senior student at St C's, is academically gifted as well as being a talented flautist with the 'world at her feet'. She has set her sights on continuing her flute studies at one of the top Conservatoires in Europe.
The death of Tilly's mother after a long illness has a devastating impact, not only on her daughter but on the rest of the family. Tilly returns to the Academy to battle her grief alone, leaving her brother, Dan, to cope with his heartbroken father.
However, fate steps in and, on meeting Jacques, Tilly is led along an unknown path that stretches her to breaking point.
Add to the story, an injured stray dog and a staunch family friend who is determined to fulfil the promise she gave to Tilly's dying mother and you have a powerful and deeply moving novel.
CLICK ON THE BOOK COVER TO READ A CHAPTER
AVAILABLE IN PAPERBACK
Available from Barnes and Noble, Target US online, Book Depository, Dymocks online and from your favourite online bookstore.
Australian residents may order directly from the author. Please use the Contact Form and leave a message.
Amazon link:
www.amazon.com/dp/0648082237
AMAZON
Reviews
Dear H - Fabulous book for pre-teens!
'I bought this book for my 10-year-old daughter as it sounded like a relatable story for pre-teens which tackled some important issues, particularly bullying. My daughter {who isn't the most avid reader} loved it and read it cover to cover in a short time. We're looking forward to reading more books by this author!'
Natasha Jessup, January, 2023, Australia
Dear H - Such an important, impactful message!
'I wish I had this book when I was 12 or 13. Written as a diary by misunderstood Amanda, Dear H highlights all of the feelings of low self-esteem and unworthiness I felt while growing up. I will be passing this on to my two nieces to let them know they are not alone. Thank you to author Diane Guntrip for putting into words the emotions that many of us feel in our adolescence, and drawing attention to the effect of bullying.' Linda E, 3rd May, 2021, UK
Tilly's Story
Diane's 3rd book is possibly her most interesting. She introduces complex relationships and addresses modern issues in a way that encourages discussion amongst its readers. A must read for anyone over the age of 15 years.' Alex Ruediger, Perth, WA, Jan 2021
'Tilly's Story'
A very well written book dealing with sensitive issues. It would be ideal to use in Personal Education lessons for teenaged girls. Plenty of points for discussion. June Smith, UK, Jan, 2021
'Tilly's Story'
"The story was very easy to read. It portrayed Tilly's grief and that of her family very well. It was easy to understand her descent into isolation and vulnerability, making her easy prey for her boyfriend. The story was easy to relate to and a timely warning for young girls who can often find themselves isolated emotionally and are drawn into this idolized view of love, without considering the consequences. The pace of the story draws you in. Tilly's actions make total sense in the circumstances." Pauline Savage, Perth, Sept, 2020
'Tilly's Story'
'Excellent Book! I loved the story and how the characters developed. I felt I knew them. Very well written and enjoyable to read. I couldn't put it down.' Janine Laver, August, 2020
"Tilly's Story"
'This heartwarming story is sure to resonate with teenagers everywhere as it depicts the trials and tribulations that beset the teenage years.
There are lessons to be learned from the impact the loss of a loved one has on a family.
Bad situations can be overcome if people pull together and show empathy and not judgement.
I would certainly recommend this book. I'm sure teenage girls especially would enjoy this great read.' Tricia Clayborough, July 2020
"'Tilly's Story' which is Diane Guntrip's 3rd novel, is narrated by Tilly, a 17-year-old music student who has to deal with an unplanned pregnancy whilst she's studying as a flautist. As a sequel to 'The Daisy Chain', this very engaging novel would especially appeal to teenage readers. With a contemporary Australian setting, the novel, examines real life situations which impact the characters' lives in powerful ways.
The emotional turmoil experienced by Tilly when her mother dies and then her first serious romantic relationship is well presented throughout the novel.
'Jacques was the answer to her prayers. He had been the one to show her tenderness and compassion. He had listened.'
In dealing with the complexities of life, Tilly learns to adapt to the many difficulties which she faces." Jenette Graham Teacher/librarian June, 2020.
Tilly's Story 'A really good read, well written with a subject that has applied to many thousands of girls world wide.' Sheila Bond July, 2020
Dear H "A powerful tale told through the eyes of a young teenage girl as she struggles with finding herself. A powerful read for both children and adults alike!"
Andrea Thompson, Educator (Canada)
Dear H "Being bullied - openly or covertly, is something that psychologically scars a child and/or young adult for life. It changes the way they walk, talk, breathe and think from the moment of impact. This is a truly moving and beautiful exploration of one girl's experience of bullying and her resilient way of coping. She draws on her internal and external resources and with guts, determination and grit she overcomes. Beautifully written, this is an inspirational story that any teenage girl would love to read - and should."
Claire Orange, Children's Mental health Specialist and Author. Perth, WA
Dear H "I thought this was a wonderful, well written book. I love the way it is written in diary format and think all teenagers should read it."
Janine L, Sheffield, UK June 2016
Dear H "I liked reading about Amanda and how she overcame her problems to do what she wanted to do. I also enjoyed how the book was written and it was easy to read.'
Samantha, aged 12, Western Australia, June 2016
Dear H "Each diary entry is short with most being only 1 - 2 pages long and is written in an engaging and easily accessible form. The handwritten letters rather than typeface seem to be a more personal approach to the readers. I would recommend this novel for young teenage girls and their parents. It is a novel which should be found in every school library."
Jenette Graham, Former Teacher/Librarian June 2017
TO READ MORE REVIEWS PLEASE CLICK HERE
'I bought this book for my 10-year-old daughter as it sounded like a relatable story for pre-teens which tackled some important issues, particularly bullying. My daughter {who isn't the most avid reader} loved it and read it cover to cover in a short time. We're looking forward to reading more books by this author!'
Natasha Jessup, January, 2023, Australia
Dear H - Such an important, impactful message!
'I wish I had this book when I was 12 or 13. Written as a diary by misunderstood Amanda, Dear H highlights all of the feelings of low self-esteem and unworthiness I felt while growing up. I will be passing this on to my two nieces to let them know they are not alone. Thank you to author Diane Guntrip for putting into words the emotions that many of us feel in our adolescence, and drawing attention to the effect of bullying.' Linda E, 3rd May, 2021, UK
Tilly's Story
Diane's 3rd book is possibly her most interesting. She introduces complex relationships and addresses modern issues in a way that encourages discussion amongst its readers. A must read for anyone over the age of 15 years.' Alex Ruediger, Perth, WA, Jan 2021
'Tilly's Story'
A very well written book dealing with sensitive issues. It would be ideal to use in Personal Education lessons for teenaged girls. Plenty of points for discussion. June Smith, UK, Jan, 2021
'Tilly's Story'
"The story was very easy to read. It portrayed Tilly's grief and that of her family very well. It was easy to understand her descent into isolation and vulnerability, making her easy prey for her boyfriend. The story was easy to relate to and a timely warning for young girls who can often find themselves isolated emotionally and are drawn into this idolized view of love, without considering the consequences. The pace of the story draws you in. Tilly's actions make total sense in the circumstances." Pauline Savage, Perth, Sept, 2020
'Tilly's Story'
'Excellent Book! I loved the story and how the characters developed. I felt I knew them. Very well written and enjoyable to read. I couldn't put it down.' Janine Laver, August, 2020
"Tilly's Story"
'This heartwarming story is sure to resonate with teenagers everywhere as it depicts the trials and tribulations that beset the teenage years.
There are lessons to be learned from the impact the loss of a loved one has on a family.
Bad situations can be overcome if people pull together and show empathy and not judgement.
I would certainly recommend this book. I'm sure teenage girls especially would enjoy this great read.' Tricia Clayborough, July 2020
"'Tilly's Story' which is Diane Guntrip's 3rd novel, is narrated by Tilly, a 17-year-old music student who has to deal with an unplanned pregnancy whilst she's studying as a flautist. As a sequel to 'The Daisy Chain', this very engaging novel would especially appeal to teenage readers. With a contemporary Australian setting, the novel, examines real life situations which impact the characters' lives in powerful ways.
The emotional turmoil experienced by Tilly when her mother dies and then her first serious romantic relationship is well presented throughout the novel.
'Jacques was the answer to her prayers. He had been the one to show her tenderness and compassion. He had listened.'
In dealing with the complexities of life, Tilly learns to adapt to the many difficulties which she faces." Jenette Graham Teacher/librarian June, 2020.
Tilly's Story 'A really good read, well written with a subject that has applied to many thousands of girls world wide.' Sheila Bond July, 2020
Dear H "A powerful tale told through the eyes of a young teenage girl as she struggles with finding herself. A powerful read for both children and adults alike!"
Andrea Thompson, Educator (Canada)
Dear H "Being bullied - openly or covertly, is something that psychologically scars a child and/or young adult for life. It changes the way they walk, talk, breathe and think from the moment of impact. This is a truly moving and beautiful exploration of one girl's experience of bullying and her resilient way of coping. She draws on her internal and external resources and with guts, determination and grit she overcomes. Beautifully written, this is an inspirational story that any teenage girl would love to read - and should."
Claire Orange, Children's Mental health Specialist and Author. Perth, WA
Dear H "I thought this was a wonderful, well written book. I love the way it is written in diary format and think all teenagers should read it."
Janine L, Sheffield, UK June 2016
Dear H "I liked reading about Amanda and how she overcame her problems to do what she wanted to do. I also enjoyed how the book was written and it was easy to read.'
Samantha, aged 12, Western Australia, June 2016
Dear H "Each diary entry is short with most being only 1 - 2 pages long and is written in an engaging and easily accessible form. The handwritten letters rather than typeface seem to be a more personal approach to the readers. I would recommend this novel for young teenage girls and their parents. It is a novel which should be found in every school library."
Jenette Graham, Former Teacher/Librarian June 2017
TO READ MORE REVIEWS PLEASE CLICK HERE