Hanna is a seemingly sweet but silent seven year old, who absolutely adores her father. She feels he is the only person that understands her. The only person standing in her way is her mother, Suzette. Hannah will try anything thing to get rid of her for good. Suzanne loves her daughter, but after years of failed attempts at schooling and communication, her already frail health and sanity are being eroded away. Her husband seems oblivious of his daughter’s seeming troubling behaviour. Suzanne gradually begins to realise, that her daughter has a sinister agenda.
Baby Teeth is a disturbing novel, at times an uncomfortable read. Especially the character of Hanna, a seemingly innocent child who has murderous intent against her mother. Suzanne is an equally perplexing character, and as we delve in deeper into her mind, we wonder if this mother has her part to play in the disturbing cat and mouse game that is acted out between her and her daughter.
Hanna is clearly suffering, trapped in a world of silence, where she is unable to communicate must be frustrating and frightening. Suzanne had the seemingly perfect marriage and there was an innocent belief that a child would complete the ‘happy ending’ that she had craved. A need that clearly stems from a dysfunctional childhood. Both seem to be having a disturbing battle with each other, like chess players, trying to get one over the other. The prize, it appears to be Alex, Suzanne’s husband who initially will not face the fact that is his little girl is not quite the angel he wants to believe.
Baby Teeth is a dark and thought provoking read. Perhaps exploring that peculiar, blinkered bond between father and daughter, and often the strained one that can exist with daughter and mother.