Saving Francesca

Released in 2003, Saving Francesca is the story of a girl who must summon the strength to save her family, her social life and—hardest of all—herself.

Novel Storyline

Francesca Spinelli is stuck at a fictional version of St. Sebastian’s, a former all-boys’ school pretending to be co-ed by simply adding a girls’ bathroom. Her only female companions are an ultra-feminist (a rumored slut) and a dorky accordion player.

The boys are no better, from Thomas who specialises in musical burping to Will, the perpetually frowning, smug moron that Francesca can’t help thinking about.

Then there’s Francesca’s mother, who always thinks she knows what’s best for Francesca. Mum is suddenly stricken with acute depression, leaving Francesca lost, alone, and without an inkling who she really is.

Is there a sequel to Saving Francesca?

Yes, The Piper’s Son is the unofficial sequel, following the story of Thomas Mackee, one of Francesca’s friends, five years later.

How old is Francesca?

Francesca is 16 years old and in Year 11, dealing with the typical teenage challenges alongside her family’s crisis.

Who are the main characters?

The main characters include Francesca Spinelli, her mother Mia, her friends Siobhan, Tara, and Thomas, and her classmate Will Trombal. Each character plays a pivotal role in Francesca’s journey of self-discovery.