Loudness of Unsaid Things

Favel Parrett's novel "The Institute" is a wise, funny, and brave story of loneliness, isolation, and finding one's way. Miss Kaye works at The Institute, a place for the damaged, outliers, and not-quite rights, and finds that simply being herself is mostly the right thing to do. Susie was seven when she realized she had had her fill of character building and her mum didn't move to the new house with them. Miss Kaye will teach her that the loudness of unsaid things can be music and that living can be more than surviving.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2021
Publisher: Hachette Australia

My heart experienced a tumultuous journey, surging with newfound affection before shattering into a million pieces. Yet, like a resilient warrior, it mended itself, stronger and more resilient than before. This novel, a wise and humorous masterpiece, is a tale that will remain etched in your memory forever.

Favel Parrett weaves an unforgettable narrative that explores the depths of loneliness, isolation, and the quest for self-discovery. It is a heart-wrenching, yet profoundly wise and wryly funny, exploration of the human condition.

Miss Kaye works at The Institute, a sanctuary for those who are damaged, marginalized, or simply not fitting into society's norms. Each resident employs their unique coping strategies, from issuing strict orders to engaging in tireless negotiations. However, Miss Kaye discovers that her most effective approach is simply being herself, embracing her authentic self.

Susie, a young girl, is seven years old when she realizes that she has had her fill of character-building experiences. She finds solace between her Holly Hobbie sheets, contemplating the slow passage of time and the swiftness of change. One moment, her father announces the family's impending move back to the city, and the next, they find themselves in the bustling metropolis. However, Susie's mother does not accompany them, and she dreads visiting her at the mind hospital, never knowing who her mother will be or who will be present.

As the years unfold, Susie accumulates a multitude of unsaid words, longing to express her thoughts and emotions. However, the weight of these unspoken words becomes increasingly burdensome, weighing heavily on her heart.

Enter Miss Kaye, a compassionate and empathetic teacher who recognizes the power of the unsaid. She teaches Susie that the loudness of these unspoken words can be transformed into music, a powerful form of expression that can heal and connect. Together, they embark on a journey of discovery, learning that living can be more than mere survival, and that the beauty of life lies in the connections we make with others.

Through their shared experiences, Miss Kaye and Susie learn that the loudness of unsaid things can be a source of strength and resilience. They discover that living is not just about surviving, but about thriving, about embracing the fullness of life and the connections that bind us to one another.

In conclusion, "My Heart Grew, Then Broke, Then Mended Itself" is a profound and unforgettable story that explores the complexities of the human heart. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of connection and expression. Through the journey of Miss Kaye and Susie, we are reminded that life is a precious gift, and that the unsaid words that weigh heavily on our hearts can be transformed into a symphony of healing and growth.

Weight: 222g
Dimension: 197 x 131 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780733646553