It’s the tabloid sensation of the year: two well-known footballers standing in the dock, charged with sexual assault, a series of vile text messages pointing towards their guilt.
As the trial unfolds, Evan Keogh reflects on the events that have led him to this moment. Since leaving his island home, his life has been a lie on many levels. He’s a talented footballer who wanted to be an artist. A gay man in a sport that rejects diversity. A defendant whose knowledge of what took place on that fateful night threatens more than just his freedom or career.
The jury will deliver a verdict but, before they do, Evan must judge for himself whether the man he has become is the man he wanted to be.
Book Info: Print length: 168 pages. Publisher: Transworld Digital. Publication Date: 18 Nov 2024
My Thoughts:
Earth is the 2nd book in the Elements short story series by John Boyne. All books can be read in any order. However, I would definitely suggest starting with book 1 – Water as some of the characters overlap.
This short book of 168 pages tackles the uncomfortable issues of sexual assaults and homophobia.
The main character is Evan Keogh who we do briefly meet in Water. He left the small island and is now in the UK. He plays football professionally and lives an enviable life of wealth, luxury, and fame. However, this is not what he wanted or dreamed of. Evan had a sensitive and artistic soul. He wanted to become a painter. Unfortunately, his talents lay in football rather than art.
The reader follows Evan’s sad and brutal journey from rent-boy to professional football and now finds him on trial for his collaboration with a team mate in the rape of a young girl.
A moving and raw story which is powerful and yet beautifully written.
