Chosen Boys

Dive into the powerful narrative of *Chosen Boys*, a poignant novel by Petra Molloy that explores the multifaceted themes of trust, vulnerability, and betrayal within a tight-knit community. Set in 1974 Auckland, this gripping tale captures the innocence of childhood through the eyes of seven-year-old Jack, whose once carefree life is disrupted when he is chosen by a new priest to become an altar boy. As Jack grapples with his newfound responsibilities and the unexpected dangers of his situation, the story unfolds against the vivid backdrop of a working-class Catholic neighborhood experiencing the harsh realities of the dawn raids.

*Chosen Boys* delves deep into the psychological effects of betrayal on both individuals and their communities, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about faith and trust. This compelling Christian fiction novel not only addresses the darker aspects of religious authority but also reflects on the resilience of community bonds when faced with the unforeseen. With 340 pages of captivating storytelling, this paperback is a must-read for those who appreciate intricate character studies and hard-hitting themes.

Join Jack on his journey as he navigates the murky waters of innocence lost and the quest for redemption. Perfect for readers seeking impactful young adult literature or those intrigued by stories that merge personal growth with social issues, *Chosen Boys* will leave you questioning whom to trust in a world where betrayal lurks in the most unlikely of places. Grab your copy today and experience the emotional depth of Petra Molloy's celebrated debut novel.

Author: Petra Molloy Publisher: Escalator Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 130 x 198 mm
Pages: 340
Publication Date: 07-10-2019

How can a community face up to the ultimate betrayal? He wonders how big God’s hand is. If he has an eye that can see the whole world in a glance, his hand must be big enough to reach out of the sky and pluck him up with his giant fingers. It is 1974 and seven-year-old Jack leads a carefree life, playing in his Auckland street. But when a new priest selects him to train as an altar boy, Jack’s world is imperilled and he shrinks away from his community, his friends and his mother. Chosen Boys explores what happens to a community when they are betrayed by those meant to care for their spiritual wellbeing. Set in a working-class Catholic community against the backdrop of the dawn raids, Molloy’s moving debut novel asks the question: who will act when a predator declares himself ‘another Christ on Earth’?