Bookclub Kit de Waal
Aug 3, 2025
Kit de Waal is an award-winning writer known for her poignant exploration of identity and the care experience. In this engaging discussion, she delves into her debut novel, My Name Is Leon, highlighting the struggles of a mixed-race boy in the 1980s Birmingham foster system. Kit shares the importance of authentic narratives in portraying adoption and sibling separation. She also reflects on the redemptive character of Maureen and the supportive relationships that shape Leon's future amid adversity. This heartfelt conversation showcases the power of storytelling.
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Leon’s Complex Identities
- Leon embodies multiple intersecting identities including being mixed-race, a foster child, and a ward of the court.
- His journey explores reconciling these identities and their impact on his sense of self.
Hopeful Ending in Care Story
- Despite the hardships, the story is hopeful rather than grim, focusing on positive outcomes for Leon.
- Some care-experienced readers find the ending unusually happy compared to typical care narratives.
Crafting Leon’s Childlike Voice
- Writing Leon's voice required balancing childlike language with mature understanding.
- Kit de Waal carefully selected words and sentence structures to authentically reflect a 9-10-year-old's perspective.
