George Kemp's 'Soft Serve' is a poignant coming-of-age story set in a regional McDonald's, exploring the aftermath of loss and the journey towards healing. The novel delves into the lives of Taz's friends, Ethan, Fern, and Jacob, as they gather annually to toast three soft serves in his memory. Amidst the backdrop of bushfires, the group finds themselves trapped under the golden arches, facing their own private struggles and the symbolism of destruction and rebirth. Kemp's depiction of regional Australia is both relatable and sardonic, offering a vivid tableau of life in a small town. The novel's strength lies in its exploration of grief and the choices we make at life's thresholds, though some characters' psychological depth could be further developed.
