Borrowed Body

A coming-of-age story of resilience and identity. Pauline's spirited story begins in 1965, abandoned in a harsh English winter. Orphaned and in foster care, Pauline grapples with her identity as a Black girl in a predominantly white society. To survive, she envisions a world of worth and beauty, guided by spirit companions.


Valerie Mason-John weaves a textured story of childhood in 1960s-70s England, from Dr. Barnardo's Village to London high-rises. Can Pauline overcome trauma, confront prejudice, and find her place? A moving exploration of race, family, and the power of imagination for readers who enjoy:
Stories of resilienceExplorations of cultural identityLiterary fiction with social commentary