"Five Bells" by Gail Jones

Set in Sydney over one day, "Five Bells" chronicles the individual stories of 4 people who serendipidously come together one sunny day at bustling Circular Quay. There is youthful Ellie, brimming with life, tragic James, a teacher, Irish Catherine who is recovering from her brother's untimely death, and Pei Xing who has been quite damaged by her experiences during the Cultural Revolution in China.  It is a 5th person, a child who innocently brings these characters together.  An evocative read from a talented Australian author.  (Margaret Saunders)