A beautiful, moving, wondrous celebration of life in the vein of The Signature of All Things and My Sister’s Keeper.
Marlowe and Harper share a bond deeper than most sisters, shaped by the loss of their mother in childhood. For Harper, living with what she calls the Up syndrome and gifted with an endless capacity for wonder, Marlowe and she are connected by an invisible thread, like the hum that connects all things. For Marlowe, they are bound by her fierce determination to keep Harper, born with a congenital heart disorder, alive.
Now 25, Marlowe is finally living her own life abroad, pursuing her studies of a rare species of butterfly secure in the knowledge Harper’s happiness is complete, having found love with boyfriend, Louis. But then she receives the devastating call that Harper’s heart is failing. She needs a heart transplant but is denied one by the medical establishment because she is living with a disability. Marlowe rushes to her childhood home in Hong Kong to be by Harper’s side and soon has to answer the question – what lengths would you go to save your sister?
When Things Are Alive They Hum poses profound questions about the nature of love and existence, the ways grief changes us, and how we confront the hand fate has dealt us. Intensely moving, exquisitely written and literally humming with wonder, it is a novel that celebrates life in all its guises, and what comes after.
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When Things Are Alive They Hum is a beautifully written and emotional story about two sisters, Marlowe and Harper. Their mother passed away when they were children and Harper has Down Syndrome as well as a heart disorder. As Harper’s heart is failing, she is in desperate need of a heart transplant, however, she is being denied the procedure. Marlowe is determined to help her sister at whatever cost. This book covers themes of disability, grief, loss and strong forms of love and devotion. This book made me cry and I could not stop thinking about it well after I had finished. A powerful and raw story that should be read by all. Brittany, VIC, 5 Stars
When Things Are Alive They Hum is an absolute page-turner that had me hooked from the very beginning. The story is narrated through the eyes of sisters Marlowe and Harper. It follows Marlowe and her family as they struggle to come to terms with the fact that Harper’s heart is failing. What follows is a heartwarming story of two sisters, one who will sacrifice everything to save the life of the one person that she can’t live without and the other who will not let her Up syndrome prevent her from living the life she wants. Hannah Bent did a fantastic job at creating a beautiful story that absolutely broke my heart and then slowly put it back together again. Evelyn, VIC, 5 Stars
I absolutely loved this book from beginning to end and it continued to hum away in my brain even after I finished reading it. It would make an excellent read for book clubs as there are so many questions and ethical issues raised that would make for an excellent discussion. It was hard to believe it was a debut novel. The author wrote this book to honour her sister, Camilla, who is living with Down syndrome and inspires Hannah and her family in so many ways. I feel this is the reason why the author is able to show such empathy for those living with a disability. It is a beautifully written, but heartbreaking story of two sisters who share a deep bond with one another. Younger sister, Harper, is living with what she calls Up syndrome. I don’t think she sees herself as disabled as she has a sense of wonder about the world and is always looking for the good in it and in the people around her. All she truly wants is to marry her boyfriend, Louis, and for them both to find acceptance just as they are. Marlowe is determined to keep Harper alive, no matter what, and this leads her to make choices which ethically she wouldn’t normally consider. She feels the end justifies the means but is she truly listening to what it is that Harper wants? The book is written in 3 parts, with alternating chapters from each of the sisters. This helps us to see their different perspectives as well as the special bond between them. Included in Hannah’s chapters are excerpts from the autobiographical story book which she is writing. This very poignant and challenging to read. I found the book to be a gripping read and I gave it 5 stars. Ruth, WA, 5 Stars
What I love most about a novel is when the story line brings me to tears. When Things Are Alive They Hum did this to me. I couldn’t stop crying. Such a beautifully written debut novel, I was hooked from the very beginning. It was so genuine and emotionally touching that all I wanted to do was give the characters, Harper and Marlowe, a big hug. I especially loved the character of Harper. She is so loving, empathetic of others and shows such wisdom in her knowledge for love. Despite her deteriorating heart condition, she shows a strength and acceptance that guides her sister in acknowledging her fate. She knows the ‘hum’ that is found within living things is carried through to the afterlife and that energy and spirits are forever surrounding us. I would say that this is one of the best novels I have read this year and I can’t wait to read more of Hannah Bent’s novels in the future. Julie, VIC, 5 Stars
A beautiful novel about the love and the relationship of two sisters. I cried while reading this novel and felt the love between Harper and Marlowe. A perfect read for a book club. Luciana, WA, 5 Stars
A truly beautiful story. Both Harper and Marlowe will capture your heart and you will not be able to put the book down. The story tells of two sisters that have a very strong bond and what they go through after their mother dies. Harper has Down syndrome and can only see the good in people and Marlowe is a PhD student living internationally but she must return home when things aren’t going well for Harper. They each tell their own story and you come to know both characters well. I love this sort of writing and Hannah Bent has done it very well. Let’s hope we can understand all the Harpers of the world a little better after reading this and can find it in our hearts to show a little more compassion for all people with disabilities. This story will stay with you for a long time and I am very grateful to Better Reading for my copy to Preview. I highly recommend this to all. Dianne, QLD, 5 Stars
I can’t speak highly enough of this book. From the beautiful cover to the endearing heartfelt story contained within, it grabbed my attention to the very last page. The story of how far people will go for those they love, I think it covered a very heart wrenching ethical dilemma well, recognising it for what it is, without a political agenda tainting the story. This is definitely one of the best books I’ve read in a while. Jodie, WA, 5 Stars
What a beautiful book. This is about two sisters, Marlowe who lives in London with her boyfriend Olly, and Harper, and her boyfriend Louis, who lives in Hong Kong with her Dad, “stepmonster” Irene and their grandmother Wai Po. Harper was born with a congenital heart disease and has Down syndrome which she calls UP Syndrome as she is always happy. She has a beautiful way with words and is always listening to everything’s HUM. The way her heart beats da dum da dum da dum but when it’s sick it has a different hum. And the love she has for Louis is really beautiful and caring. Marlowe loves her sister dearly and will try anything to help her out. I loved this book and the words that were used to describe Harper’s way of thinking, it leaves you listening out for your own HUM. Sue, NSW, 5 Stars
This is a profound and extraordinary book about the importance of telling your own story. Don’t assume this is a wishy-washy feel-good family saga, as it is so much more than that. Instead, it is a story of prejudice, courage and determination. The characters are all so believable with their hopes, dreams and vulnerabilities laid bare. Set between London and Hong Kong, the story is told by the two sisters in alternating chapters. Marlowe is a successful scientist living in the UK. Harper is a young woman with Down Syndrome (or The Up Syndrome as she calls it) living in the family home in Hong Kong. When Marlowe finds out Harper’s congenital heart condition is now terminal she races back to Hong Kong and refuses to believe that nothing can be done to save Harper. Marlowe’s commentary is full of angst and regret. Harper is one of the most impressive characters I have experienced. She loves life and can find a positive perspective on most things. Her understanding of the “hum”—her heart beat and life force—challenges the traditional view of life and death. Congratulations to Hannah Bent for such a compassionate and graceful debut novel. Catherine, QLD, 5 Stars
When I read just up to 18 pages, I already knew this is one kind of books which will stay in my heart forever and one that I will recommend to other book lovers continuously. 🦋 Harper is twenty years old and living with Up syndrome and congenital heart disorder which at the end needs a transplant. When that time arrives, Marlowe, her sister who studying PhD in Conservation and Natural History in UK, rushed going back to Hong Kong to help her sister to get a transplant. To get into transplant waiting list itself is not easy, and Harper’s Up syndrome itself doesn’t help her chance for a transplant. 🦋 It’s an unusual fiction book which brings up topic of illegal organs black market, discrimination and equality within health system. It’s a believable family situation about coping with grief, fear of loss and mortality. Vivi, NSW, 5 Stars
This book has all the feels!! From the opening pages I was drawn into Marlowe and Harper’s world, and what a ride I went on with these two spirited and strong women. Every so often a story comes along that I know will stay with me for many years to come and I was only a chapter in when I knew I could feel the hum beating loudly within me. Hannah you have done a superb job of sharing the trials and joys that Harper went through and for me it will always be the ‘Up’ syndrome. Danielle, VIC, 5 Stars
A truly beautiful story. Both Harper and Marlowe will capture your heart and you will not be able to put the book down. The story tells of two sisters that have a very strong bond and what they go through after their mother dies. Harper has Down syndrome and can only see the good in people and Marlowe is a PhD student living internationally but she must return home when things aren’t going well for Harper. They each tell their own story and you come to know both characters well. I love this sort of writing and Hannah Bent has done it very well. Let’s hope we can understand all the Harpers of the world a little better after reading this and can find it in our hearts to show a little more compassion for all people with disabilities. This story will stay with you for a long time and I am very grateful to Better Reading for my copy to Preview it. I highly recommend this to all. Dianne, QLD, 5 Stars
When Things Are Alive They Hum is an emotional, empathetic and deep story about two sisters. Harper and Marlowe are siblings who are so tuned to one another that their hearts hum the same way. Harper, the younger sister, has “Up” Syndrome and will surely become one of the most beloved literary character of the century. Marlowe is in the final month of her PhD but returns to Hong Kong to take care of Harper whose heart is weakening. Every chapter alternates between the narration of the two sisters, in such a brilliant way that it gives the complete picture of the oceans of emotions; of the girl with Down Syndrome, and of the girl who deeply cares for her sister. We get the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of the strong, beautiful and confident Harper, along with the discrimination, differences and conflicts she faces with the world. The optimism that radiates through this character is one that stays in the minds of the reader long after the book is done. The author has done magic in bringing so many themes in one place: intellectual disability, organ transplantation, sisterhood and different dynamics of complex family structures. Fasmina, NSW, 5 Stars
Life is good for Marlowe who now lives in London with her boyfriend Olly while studying her chosen career. Losing her mother at a young age along with other family members she is responsible for looking after a younger sister who was born with health issues. Her sister Harper’s life has settled down and now she has a boyfriend Louis so Marlowe is not so concerned about shifting to another country. Everything comes crushing down when she receives a letter from Harper begging her to come home to Hong Kong. There are complications to Harper’s health [she needs an urgent transplant] and this novel shows the extremes that a sibling/family member will go to whether legal or not to try and make a loved one better. Please make sure you have a box of tissues near you when you read it. It certainly makes you think what you would have done in the same circumstances. Great Read. Jill, VIC, 5 Stars
The telling of this story is in alternating chapters from the perspective of Marlowe and Harper, two sisters, with a special bond. Harper has UP syndrome, she doesn’t like it being called down, and the author sympathetically explores both Harper’s life and Marlowe’s grief, guilt and love of being a primary caregiver whilst trying to forge her own life. A beautiful book that I would highly recommend. Pamela, QLD, 5 Stars
This was a beautifully written story of love, family, grief and acceptance. Sisters Marlowe and Harper share a special bond, but struggle to agree when it is time to make a heartbreaking decision. The moral dilemma is handled with sensitivity and feels very authentic. This is a book I will remember for a long time, and will definitely recommend to others. Kim, NSW, 5 Stars
I am so grateful for the opportunity to read When Things Are Alive They Hum by Hannah Bent. This is a beautiful book and I enjoyed it very much. It is the story of Marlowe and Harper, sisters with an unbreakable connection and the lengths that we will go to to protect the ones we love. It is about family, love, grief, joy, forgiveness and seeing the world from someone else’s point of view. This book made my heart sing, and it made my heart break. I fell in love with Marlowe and Harper immediately and they stayed with me long after I had finished reading. What a fantastic debut novel from Hannah Bent, I cannot recommend it enough- I will be waiting eagerly for her next book. Debbie, NSW, 5 Stars
Marlowe and Harper are sisters. Their mother died while they were children. Harper has Down Syndrome and it is a sad commentary on society the way that people often treat her and disregard her. As well as Down Syndrome Harper has a congenital heart disorder. Her heart is failing. She needs a heart transplant which is being denied her by the medical establishment. Marlowe is determined to get help for Harper, no matter what it costs or how she has to achieve it. All she is concerned about is saving her sister. But is she actually listening to what Harper wants? Beautifully written and heartbreaking are the words I would use to describe this book. Very clever to give chapters from both Marlowe’s and Harper’s points of views so this gives the reader a rounded picture of the situation and each woman’s attitude. From its stunning butterfly cover and book mark, this debut novel is one that is thought provoking and challenging. I found it hard to read at times yet impossible to not read it. Thanks to BetterReading and Ultimo Press for my copy to read and review. This is a book I highly recommend as worth reading. Harper is, as many people with Down Syndrome, is a happy soul and a delight. As she manages to mostly see the good in life. Dale, NSW, 5 Stars
Firstly I would like to congratulate Hannah on a great book. I think people underestimate people with Down Syndrome, they are very smart people and know what they want in life . I can’t wait for Hannah’s next book. Annette, VIC, 5 Stars
What a delightful surprise this book was. Although the theme is one of sadness, there is a joyful tone running through it and so many uplifting moments. Thoroughly recommend it but be prepared for a few tears! Jenny, VIC, 5 Stars
I absolutely adored this book and am now sad I’ve finished it! Such a beautifully written, captivating book about the bonds of family that had me engrossed from the first chapter & will have me thinking about it long after I finish. Lisa, QLD, 5 Stars
Marlowe is Harper’s older sister and has always looked out for her before moving to London to undertake her PHD. Harper has down syndrome and sees the world in such beautiful colours. This beautiful book follows the sisters as they try and navigate the difficulties around Harper’s heart failing and listening to one another. Wow! This book! It stands out from the pack, like no other I have read. I have never been so emotionally invested in a book- I cried (tears rolling down my face) for most of the book. This book has to be one of the most heartfelt and insightful books I have read. This story has such a special place in my heart! It demonstrates how raw love and devotion can be and the things you do for the ones you love. The writing by Hannah Bent is phenomenal!! I was able to see my own family’s trauma in what she had written. I read this in just over a day! It is captivating! Melissa, QLD, 5 Stars
A truly inspiring and wonderful book. The thought of losing someone close to you is terrifying but in attempting to help them to live a long, enriched life often results in losing track of what the person involved really wants themselves. People who live and think differently to the rest of us (“special people”) are often branded as not having the mental capacity to make their own decisions and are ‘bullied’ into life changing decisions by others who think they have their best interests at heart. This book is deeply moving as the main character slips inexorably into decline and her family rallies around doing whatsoever they possibly can to improve her way of life at any cost, crossing borders of morality along the way. All the way through, the lovely way the ‘special’ people look at life is fantastic and we who think we know so much could all learn lessons from them. A book for all the family; just don’t leave the tissues too far away. It certainly Hums! Terry, SA, 5 Stars
This book was a good read! The way it was written brings so many emotions to the surface, loved it. Christine, QLD, 4 Stars
A delightful story that takes the reader into the unconditional love between 2 sisters, further reinforced when their mother dies in their childhood years. Marlowe, pursuing a PhD in London makes the only decision that she sees as viable to return to Hong Kong when her younger sister Harper has life threatening health issues. Harper was born with Down’s syndrome, but through the book Harper refers to it as Up Syndrome. She is a high functioning individual who works in a library and despite her limitations maintains an exceptional view of her world. She has a special boyfriend Louis who also has Up syndrome and together they share many happy times. Throughout the story the love of their mother, taken too young, the love she shared with her husband and her 2 young daughters is never far from the narrative. Nor is the tremendous support of family. When Harper’s heart issues become insurmountable Marlowe decides that she can work out a plan to save Harper. The love that is apparent between the 2 sisters is palpable. Heartbreaking decisions are made along with uplifting ones. This book gives great insights into the feelings of this delightful girl, Harper, and her joy in the simple pleasures of life as well as her ability to make decisions that will affect her long term future. One cannot finish the book without a feeling of sadness but also joy. Lisa, SA, 4 Stars
A soulful read about love and loss, and recognising that our differences are what make us special. I really enjoyed spending time in the world that Hannah created for this story. It was nice to be transported to another place through the pages, with the story taking place across London, Hong Kong and Shanghai. Main character Marlowe’s journey of self discovery through grief; and the acknowledgement of the way her past has shaped her, was heart-warming and a really enjoyable read. 4 stars from me! Michelle, SA, 4 Stars
This is a beautiful book that focuses on the love between siblings. I enjoyed the way the story was told alternately from each sister’s perspective, highlighting their alternate perceptions of the world and both its joys and challenges. Harper is an inspirational character who spreads sunshine in her own special way. Ruth, NSW, 4 Stars
Although I finished this book a few days ago, it’s been humming around in my heart since. It’s an important story about so many topics including death, grief, love, family, inclusion and acceptance. I’m a big believer in really listening to people, really seeing them – the things they want you to see and the things that may be just under the surface, out of sight. Everyone, and I mean everyone has something to teach us if we would just slow down and get quiet. There is so much to celebrate and discover when we have the courage to embrace diversity and this story definitely reflects that. It is brimming with wonder, and I guarantee will have your eyes brimming with tears and leave you noticing the hum of life and the hum that remains after. Tammy, SA, 4 Stars
Unique and authentic. I love how Harper sees the world, with beauty, innocence and hum. The spirit of life and nature speaks to everyone…we just need to listen. The noise of what we feel obliged to do, want to do and have promised to do confuses us and sometimes prevents us from seeing what we should, or sometimes shouldn’t, do. The themes of death and life are challenged in this story, as is the morality of black market transplants. A wonderful story, with a message of understanding and love, acceptance and happiness. Sharon, NSW, 4 Stars
I enjoyed Harper’s outlook on life. Very simplistic. Which is a nice change to the bleak and negative views of others with less dire situations. It also captured the family dynamics that also work within families, and the lengths they go to help each other. An enjoyable read, and I highly recommend it to others. Annette, NSW, 4 Stars
When Things Are Alive They Hum, a story about strong family ties and the length you go through to help a family member in need. I was looking forward to reading this book, but initially found it hard going, I did not engage with this book at all, I persevered and all that changed about half way through, I even shed a few tears. I will be recommending this book to friends once released and I’m sure it would make for some interesting discussions. Leigh, WA, 4 Stars
A very emotional account of two sisters, Marlowe and Harper. Marlowe, the eldest is studying in England, a PhD in the life cycle and conservation of butterflies. Harper, who is living with their family in Hong Kong, was born with Up syndrome and a congenital heart condition frequently requiring hospitalisation. As the girl’s mum tragically died some years ago, Harper is lovingly guided and looked after by their dad and grandmother while Marlowe is away and studying. Learning that Harper’s health is rapidly deteriorating, Marlowe, at a crucial time in her studies, drops everything to fly home so she can be by Harper’s side. Marlowe, finding herself unable to accept her treasured sister’s declining health and the doctor’s prognosis, is faced with some extremely difficult decisions. When a loved one’s life is on the line to what length would you go to save their life? Such a captivating and heart wrenching story. Karen, NSW, 4 Stars
When Marlowe’s sister Harper has a serious health scare, the world changes dramatically for both sisters. As we explore the differing ways the two sisters manage and process this, we also see the far reaching effects their decisions have on the rest of their family members. The book beautifully examines family relationships, and the power that these relationships can have over others, even long after death. We see how the death of Marlowe’s mother many years ago reverberates still, and informs Marlowe’s actions and choices. The book also invites us to think about the value of preserving life at all costs, versus the will of the individual. Do we have the right to decide whether someone else should live, even if this flies in the face of that person’s choices? And what if the decision to extend life comes at a terrible cost to others? What if the only option means breaking the law? The book beautifully depicts the world from the viewpoint of a differently-abled person. Through Bent’s beautiful, evocative writing we glimpse into the world of Harper’s experience of living with an intellectual disability, and how she refuses to let this define her. Gorgeous on so many levels. Kate, VIC, 4 Stars
From the moment I started reading, I was hooked. The bond between sisters can be fraught with angst and emotions, guilt, joy, love, acceptance, grief. What lengths will I go to save her? I recommend this book. Bridget, VIC, 4 Stars
When Things Are Alive They Hum is a beautiful dedication to the bonds between sisters. This is link that extends and strengthens against all challenges and tests that it is put through. In this book we traverse both Harper (who has UP syndrome) and Marlowe’s perspectives and their dedication to each other – whatever this needs to be. Reading this book whilst in lockdown and isolated from seeing my own loved ones, I was able to reflect and be reminded of how wonderful family is. Lisa, NSW, 4 Stars
Marlowe and Harper are sisters who since the death of their mother have become very close. Marlowe at 25 has started her own life in London while Harper who has ‘UP Syndrome’ has remained in the family home in Hong Kong. Marlowe returns home after hearing of Harper’s worsening heart condition. Harper has been denied a transplant because of her disability. Marlowe would go to any length to get Harper a new heart even though it may not be legal. The love the sisters have for each other is undeniable but sometimes you just have to let go. Vivien, ACT, 4 Stars
When Things Are Alive They Hum is an easy to read story but I prefer not to be able to predict where the book is heading. Gai, NSW, 3 Stars
I found the book easy to read in the style of 2 main characters and short chapters alternating between each. However I felt the book missed its mark. It was trying to cover too many topic/issues without really going into any depth for any of them. Not my preferred genre of reading. Mandy, VIC, 1 Star
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