| Complete units of work for each stage of the book, and includes useful background information about the novel and author.
Letters from the Inside explores the developing relationship between two characters, Tracey and Mandy, who meet as pen pals through a teenage magazine.
The characters appear to be two typical teenage girls dealing with teenage issues such as friendship, honesty, growing up and violence. However, as the novel progresses their secrets are revealed. Tracey is in a maximum security detention centre, Garrett. She has a troubled past and yearns for a normal family life. Mandy appears to be part of a typical family. Her mother, father and sister Katrina, are loving and supportive. However, her brother Steve is a troubled, violent person and Mandy is afraid of him.
Through the letters the girls are able to express fears and feelings they would otherwise keep hidden. Tracey, the tough inmate, reveals her sensitive side and traumatic childhood. Mandy is able to vent her fears about Steve to Tracey in a way she could never do with her school friends.
The novel takes a twist near the end, one that leaves readers guessing.
Letters from the Inside is aimed at Years 9 and 10. It's a good idea to read the novel as a whole class, with students taking turns to read characters. |
