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The Drop-Off
At Bayside Primary, it's the adults who are behaving like children...
Lizzie, Megan and Sam became accidental friends over good coffee, banter and wrong-world jokes at school drop off. Lizzie is a part-time midwife with four kids and a secret past. Sam is an ex-chef and stay-at-home dad with an absent, high-flying corporate wife. Megan is an ex-model single mum with a thriving online business and no time for loneliness. None of them have much interest in their school community, but when tragedy deals Bayside Primary's reputation a potentially crippling blow, this unlikely trio have to step up. Forced out of their respective comfort zones, Lizzie, Megan and Sam learn more about each other, the school and themselves than they thought possible.
And it all begins at The Drop-Off.
Lizzie, Megan and Sam became accidental friends over good coffee, banter and wrong-world jokes at school drop off. Lizzie is a part-time midwife with four kids and a secret past. Sam is an ex-chef and stay-at-home dad with an absent, high-flying corporate wife. Megan is an ex-model single mum with a thriving online business and no time for loneliness. None of them have much interest in their school community, but when tragedy deals Bayside Primary's reputation a potentially crippling blow, this unlikely trio have to step up. Forced out of their respective comfort zones, Lizzie, Megan and Sam learn more about each other, the school and themselves than they thought possible.
And it all begins at The Drop-Off.
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2020
23 people are currently reading
530 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
November 29, 2021
3.5★
Lizzie, Megan and Sam all have children who go to the same primary school and this is where they form an unlikely friendship. As we follow each of the characters we get to know more about their day to day lives all and how they deal with different situations and how family dramas effect their families.
This was an easy and fun read with relatable characters. I did enjoy this story, but I didn’t love it like some readers did, but that’s the joy of reading. Recommended.
Lizzie, Megan and Sam all have children who go to the same primary school and this is where they form an unlikely friendship. As we follow each of the characters we get to know more about their day to day lives all and how they deal with different situations and how family dramas effect their families.
This was an easy and fun read with relatable characters. I did enjoy this story, but I didn’t love it like some readers did, but that’s the joy of reading. Recommended.
June 30, 2020
What an absolute joy it was to read The Drop Off! This little Aussie gem had me nodding my heading and laughing along with the antics of this trio of friends. Although my kids are older I could elate to what was happening in this story and I think that most parents will.
Bayside primary school in Melbourne is where this is set, but it could be any school anywhere in the world. The 3 parents, Lizzie, Megan and Sam are all very close and don’t like any outside invaders to their group. They stick together and will do anything for each other. They are all different, a single mum, a working mum of 4 and a stay at home dad. But when the lollipop man dies they start to rethink their lives and their attitudes towards the world.
I highly recommend this funny and addictive read about real parents with real feelings.
Bayside primary school in Melbourne is where this is set, but it could be any school anywhere in the world. The 3 parents, Lizzie, Megan and Sam are all very close and don’t like any outside invaders to their group. They stick together and will do anything for each other. They are all different, a single mum, a working mum of 4 and a stay at home dad. But when the lollipop man dies they start to rethink their lives and their attitudes towards the world.
I highly recommend this funny and addictive read about real parents with real feelings.
July 24, 2020
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**3.5 stars**
The Drop-Off by Fiona Harris & Mike McLeish. (2020).
Everyone knows the school drop-off rules: 'kiss & go doesn't mean 'sit & scroll Insta'; activewear is allowed but pj pants are not; don't piss off the Alpha mum. Lizzie, Megan and Sam don't play by the rules. Lizzie is a part-time midwife with 4 kids and a secret past. Sam is a stay-at-home dad whose marriage is on the brink. Megan is a former model with a son, a thriving business and no time for loneliness. None of them are very interested in the world of school concerts and working bees...until the day the lollipop man dies and ruins everything...
My eldest started kindy last year and I entered the world of "the drop-off", something I was actually a bit nervous about haha. So when I saw the synopsis of this book I was definitely keen to give it a read. There were lots of parts in the story that made me laugh, both because it was funny and also as a parent it felt familiar. Parts of the storyline were also very relatable, while some parts felt dramatic (which felt like it was done on purpose). I think this book would be a good pick for you if you are looking for were an easy read and would be most appreciated by readers who have/had children in primary school. Fun fact: this book was developed from a short web based comedy series which is available online. I looked it up after reading the book and quite enjoyed the quick and funny episodes.
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**3.5 stars**
The Drop-Off by Fiona Harris & Mike McLeish. (2020).
Everyone knows the school drop-off rules: 'kiss & go doesn't mean 'sit & scroll Insta'; activewear is allowed but pj pants are not; don't piss off the Alpha mum. Lizzie, Megan and Sam don't play by the rules. Lizzie is a part-time midwife with 4 kids and a secret past. Sam is a stay-at-home dad whose marriage is on the brink. Megan is a former model with a son, a thriving business and no time for loneliness. None of them are very interested in the world of school concerts and working bees...until the day the lollipop man dies and ruins everything...
My eldest started kindy last year and I entered the world of "the drop-off", something I was actually a bit nervous about haha. So when I saw the synopsis of this book I was definitely keen to give it a read. There were lots of parts in the story that made me laugh, both because it was funny and also as a parent it felt familiar. Parts of the storyline were also very relatable, while some parts felt dramatic (which felt like it was done on purpose). I think this book would be a good pick for you if you are looking for were an easy read and would be most appreciated by readers who have/had children in primary school. Fun fact: this book was developed from a short web based comedy series which is available online. I looked it up after reading the book and quite enjoyed the quick and funny episodes.
April 18, 2022
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
The Drop-Off by Fiona Harris & Mike McLeish
What a fabulous time I had reading The Drop Off, an entertaining tale of unlikely friendships made between parents at the Baytree Primary school yard in Melbourne during drops offs and pick ups.
It’s certainly a relatable and witty story and centres around three parents, Lizzie, Megan and Sam. Each character is dealing with their own domestic dramas as they chat over coffee on ‘their’ bench in the far corner of the school yard.
Lizzie has a husband and four kids while juggling her job as a midwife. Megan is a single mother and a successful online business owner. Sam is a stay at home dad to two children while his wife works away most of the time.
When Henry the lollypop-man passes away, not discovered for three whole days, Megan feels some shame as part of an uncaring community and finds herself representing the school at Henry’s funeral. Megan isn’t exactly what you would call community minded and never gets involved with school activities. Maybe things were about to change…..
Love, love this book! ♥️ Heart warming, funny, plenty of drama and addictive.
Thanks so very much to author Fiona Harris for my signed copy of the book
The Drop-Off by Fiona Harris & Mike McLeish
What a fabulous time I had reading The Drop Off, an entertaining tale of unlikely friendships made between parents at the Baytree Primary school yard in Melbourne during drops offs and pick ups.
It’s certainly a relatable and witty story and centres around three parents, Lizzie, Megan and Sam. Each character is dealing with their own domestic dramas as they chat over coffee on ‘their’ bench in the far corner of the school yard.
Lizzie has a husband and four kids while juggling her job as a midwife. Megan is a single mother and a successful online business owner. Sam is a stay at home dad to two children while his wife works away most of the time.
When Henry the lollypop-man passes away, not discovered for three whole days, Megan feels some shame as part of an uncaring community and finds herself representing the school at Henry’s funeral. Megan isn’t exactly what you would call community minded and never gets involved with school activities. Maybe things were about to change…..
Love, love this book! ♥️ Heart warming, funny, plenty of drama and addictive.
Thanks so very much to author Fiona Harris for my signed copy of the book
January 10, 2022
Oh how I needed this book after my daughter caught covid in the christmas /new year week. Thank you so much for the laughs this book gave me.
I loved so much about this book. I loved the tribe, the lost property situation, the Maltese family . I loved how it took me back to the 80's and 90's era.
It is told by three main characters-
Lizzie ( the midwife )
Sam ( stay at home dad) ex chef.
Megan ( online instagram fashion shop)
Such a relatable story for anyone who has had children in primary school. There was not one characters that I didnt like well maybe - Megan's mother in law.
It is part of a series the next book is called the The pick up which involves a school camp. Can't wait to read this book too.
I couldn't stop turning the pages in this book and haven't stopped talking about to anyone who will listen.
Highly recommend.
I loved so much about this book. I loved the tribe, the lost property situation, the Maltese family . I loved how it took me back to the 80's and 90's era.
It is told by three main characters-
Lizzie ( the midwife )
Sam ( stay at home dad) ex chef.
Megan ( online instagram fashion shop)
Such a relatable story for anyone who has had children in primary school. There was not one characters that I didnt like well maybe - Megan's mother in law.
It is part of a series the next book is called the The pick up which involves a school camp. Can't wait to read this book too.
I couldn't stop turning the pages in this book and haven't stopped talking about to anyone who will listen.
Highly recommend.
May 18, 2020
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Developed from a short web based comedy series, The Drop-Off is the first novel by writing duo Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish. The Drop-Off offers a witty and realistic glimpse into the world of parents, children and a school community.
Welcome to Baytree Primary School. This quiet and comfortable Melbourne based school is a place where parents go about their daily lives following an unwritten set of rules, pertinent to the school culture. These include fashion choices, opportunities to gossip and drop off expectations. It is all about keeping a happy medium and no one knows these stipulations more than trio Lizzie, Megan and Sam. Each one of these parents has their own concerns. These modern parenting issues include money woes, work life balance problems and relationship strains. The school drop off is this trio’s saving grace, a place where they can go to air their concerns – with no judgement. However, when a tragic incident occurs at Baytree this friendship circle must adapt to a world of change.
Parenting and schoolyard politics based books seem to be experiencing their heyday of late. I have seen a plethora of books released in this genre, which I think may be somewhat of an after effect of Liane Moriarty’s popular novel of this domestic fiction genre, the smash hit Big Little Lies. I prefer to avoid comparing books, but I did feel The Drop-Off reminded me of Moriarty’s bestseller. However, Harris and McLeish have put their own unique spin on the schoolyard culture. I enjoyed my turn with two new authors and I was inspired to seek out the short form web series this book is based on.
As a parent who indulges most days in the ‘drop off’, I found this practice a really interesting scenario to explore within a contemporary fiction novel. There were many elements that Harris and McLeish highlight that had me nodding in approval and relating my own experiences to the parent figures in this story. It was a nice feeling to be able to connect so closely to a set of characters. The cast definitely has shades of myself, my friends and acquaintances in the school community I am a part of. The Drop-Off hit quite close to home for me as a reader!
Dividing the narrative into three different points of view and following three parents in a closely observed manner made for a great read. I liked how each parent of this trio had their own parenting approach and personal baggage, as well as secrets. These range from marital issues, to career choices and business pressures. I enjoyed the process of unpacking these problems. The characters featured in The Drop-Off are presented in such a way that you would be happy to sit down and have a coffee with them to mull over your problems together. The accompanying dialogue was easygoing and authentic too. There was a kind of ordinary, down to earth tone about the protagonist set that had me smiling, laughing and fist pumping in solidarity!
The conflict aspect in the novel upturns the character set and will be sure to surprise the reader. The fallout from the tension filled problems was entertaining, fun and connective. The tone of the novel which is engaging and on point, helps guide the reader through the maze of parenting predicaments and school based dilemmas presented in The Drop-Off. I liked how the disputes presented in the novel were common based concerns and the mistakes the characters make show us that they are just as flawed as we are! There is no guidebook for parenting!
Frank, lively and full of common understanding, The Drop-Off read very smoothly for a double author offering. Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish’s novel outlines the importance of community spirit and the true value of friendship in surviving the world of highly charged schoolyard affairs. The Drop-Off is a recommend read for contemporary fiction fans.
*Thanks extended to Echo Publishing for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Drop-Off is book #56 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
Developed from a short web based comedy series, The Drop-Off is the first novel by writing duo Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish. The Drop-Off offers a witty and realistic glimpse into the world of parents, children and a school community.
Welcome to Baytree Primary School. This quiet and comfortable Melbourne based school is a place where parents go about their daily lives following an unwritten set of rules, pertinent to the school culture. These include fashion choices, opportunities to gossip and drop off expectations. It is all about keeping a happy medium and no one knows these stipulations more than trio Lizzie, Megan and Sam. Each one of these parents has their own concerns. These modern parenting issues include money woes, work life balance problems and relationship strains. The school drop off is this trio’s saving grace, a place where they can go to air their concerns – with no judgement. However, when a tragic incident occurs at Baytree this friendship circle must adapt to a world of change.
Parenting and schoolyard politics based books seem to be experiencing their heyday of late. I have seen a plethora of books released in this genre, which I think may be somewhat of an after effect of Liane Moriarty’s popular novel of this domestic fiction genre, the smash hit Big Little Lies. I prefer to avoid comparing books, but I did feel The Drop-Off reminded me of Moriarty’s bestseller. However, Harris and McLeish have put their own unique spin on the schoolyard culture. I enjoyed my turn with two new authors and I was inspired to seek out the short form web series this book is based on.
As a parent who indulges most days in the ‘drop off’, I found this practice a really interesting scenario to explore within a contemporary fiction novel. There were many elements that Harris and McLeish highlight that had me nodding in approval and relating my own experiences to the parent figures in this story. It was a nice feeling to be able to connect so closely to a set of characters. The cast definitely has shades of myself, my friends and acquaintances in the school community I am a part of. The Drop-Off hit quite close to home for me as a reader!
Dividing the narrative into three different points of view and following three parents in a closely observed manner made for a great read. I liked how each parent of this trio had their own parenting approach and personal baggage, as well as secrets. These range from marital issues, to career choices and business pressures. I enjoyed the process of unpacking these problems. The characters featured in The Drop-Off are presented in such a way that you would be happy to sit down and have a coffee with them to mull over your problems together. The accompanying dialogue was easygoing and authentic too. There was a kind of ordinary, down to earth tone about the protagonist set that had me smiling, laughing and fist pumping in solidarity!
The conflict aspect in the novel upturns the character set and will be sure to surprise the reader. The fallout from the tension filled problems was entertaining, fun and connective. The tone of the novel which is engaging and on point, helps guide the reader through the maze of parenting predicaments and school based dilemmas presented in The Drop-Off. I liked how the disputes presented in the novel were common based concerns and the mistakes the characters make show us that they are just as flawed as we are! There is no guidebook for parenting!
Frank, lively and full of common understanding, The Drop-Off read very smoothly for a double author offering. Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish’s novel outlines the importance of community spirit and the true value of friendship in surviving the world of highly charged schoolyard affairs. The Drop-Off is a recommend read for contemporary fiction fans.
*Thanks extended to Echo Publishing for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
The Drop-Off is book #56 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
May 20, 2020
Thank you so much to Allen & Unwin and DMCPR for sending me a copy of The Drop Off, in exchange for an honest review!
If you're looking for a truly funny book right now, The Drop Off is the one. My kid isn't school aged yet, but this book was already SO relatable. With very real parents and no sanctimummy's in sight, I am these ladies and these ladies are me.
Sam, Lizzie and Megan all have their own struggles - Sam's marriage isn't looking too good, Megan is struggling to keep all the balls in the air, as a single mum with a thriving online business and Lizzie has just discovered her past has stubbornly refused to stay in the past. None of them have the time or inclination to put their hand up for any school volunteer roles. In fact they'd rather stick their head in the toilet. But a tragedy and a joke create the perfect storm and they find themselves roped in to organising the school play of all things.
As each of the friends navigate what life throws at them, they become more than just acquaintances who meet at the school drop off.
The wit combined with the very real curve balls that come with marriage, kids, in-laws and ageing parents combined in a way that made this book one that had me laughing out loud one moment and feeling deep sympathy for the characters the next.
This book was a lot of fun and the side characters in the book were just as entertaining as the main characters. From sweet primary school kids to surly pre-teens and rocking elderlies, they all captured my heart. (Ok, sometimes the surly pre-teens struck fear into my heart thinking about the days I've got to look forward to ).
This is one to kick back with a wine or coffee and read in one sitting, while the kids are in bed. Or at school
If you're looking for a truly funny book right now, The Drop Off is the one. My kid isn't school aged yet, but this book was already SO relatable. With very real parents and no sanctimummy's in sight, I am these ladies and these ladies are me.
Sam, Lizzie and Megan all have their own struggles - Sam's marriage isn't looking too good, Megan is struggling to keep all the balls in the air, as a single mum with a thriving online business and Lizzie has just discovered her past has stubbornly refused to stay in the past. None of them have the time or inclination to put their hand up for any school volunteer roles. In fact they'd rather stick their head in the toilet. But a tragedy and a joke create the perfect storm and they find themselves roped in to organising the school play of all things.
As each of the friends navigate what life throws at them, they become more than just acquaintances who meet at the school drop off.
The wit combined with the very real curve balls that come with marriage, kids, in-laws and ageing parents combined in a way that made this book one that had me laughing out loud one moment and feeling deep sympathy for the characters the next.
This book was a lot of fun and the side characters in the book were just as entertaining as the main characters. From sweet primary school kids to surly pre-teens and rocking elderlies, they all captured my heart. (Ok, sometimes the surly pre-teens struck fear into my heart thinking about the days I've got to look forward to ).
This is one to kick back with a wine or coffee and read in one sitting, while the kids are in bed. Or at school
March 11, 2021
‘Hey buddy, so maybe I should start at the beginning like most good stories do …’
Meet Lizzie, Megan, and Sam. Parents of children at Melbourne’s Baytree Primary School, they have become friends over school drop-off. Lizzie, a part-time midwife with four children, has an awkward secret. Sam, a chef, is now a stay-at-home dad whose wife spends a lot of time travelling because of her job. And Megan is a single mum with a thriving but demanding online business. Busy people, who have bonded over coffee and chat at school drop-off.
Chat at school drop-off was never part of my experience: there was never time. Child delivered: commute to work, full time job, shift working partner, no time to park and chat. I am envious, and I am still on the first page. So, what did these parents get up to?
Three parents, three quite different life situations, three different points of view. Lizzie, Megan, and Sam were like many of the other parents:
‘As school communities went, Baytree Primary parents were lazy and useless.’
Until a tragedy led them to become more involved in the school.
I enjoyed this novel, accompanying each of the characters as they dealt with changes and crises. They became unlikely saviours of a school event while supporting each other through personal issues. I may not have been part of the drop-off clique, but I recognise the challenges of being involved in the school community and of juggling commitments.
This novel was developed from a web-based comedy series (which I have not seen). I enjoyed the humour, found myself nodding in agreement with some of the issues faced and was delighted by the ending. Parenting is a tough gig, but everything is much easier with friends and good humour.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Meet Lizzie, Megan, and Sam. Parents of children at Melbourne’s Baytree Primary School, they have become friends over school drop-off. Lizzie, a part-time midwife with four children, has an awkward secret. Sam, a chef, is now a stay-at-home dad whose wife spends a lot of time travelling because of her job. And Megan is a single mum with a thriving but demanding online business. Busy people, who have bonded over coffee and chat at school drop-off.
Chat at school drop-off was never part of my experience: there was never time. Child delivered: commute to work, full time job, shift working partner, no time to park and chat. I am envious, and I am still on the first page. So, what did these parents get up to?
Three parents, three quite different life situations, three different points of view. Lizzie, Megan, and Sam were like many of the other parents:
‘As school communities went, Baytree Primary parents were lazy and useless.’
Until a tragedy led them to become more involved in the school.
I enjoyed this novel, accompanying each of the characters as they dealt with changes and crises. They became unlikely saviours of a school event while supporting each other through personal issues. I may not have been part of the drop-off clique, but I recognise the challenges of being involved in the school community and of juggling commitments.
This novel was developed from a web-based comedy series (which I have not seen). I enjoyed the humour, found myself nodding in agreement with some of the issues faced and was delighted by the ending. Parenting is a tough gig, but everything is much easier with friends and good humour.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
July 3, 2021
3.5 stars
After having my head deep in crime fiction over the last few reads, this was just what I needed to lighten things up.
Not too heavy, lots of humour and a story of family, community, parenting and the school crowd.
Very enjoyable - and I'll read the follow-up "The Pick-Up" soon too !
After having my head deep in crime fiction over the last few reads, this was just what I needed to lighten things up.
Not too heavy, lots of humour and a story of family, community, parenting and the school crowd.
Very enjoyable - and I'll read the follow-up "The Pick-Up" soon too !
January 30, 2022
The Drop-off | Fiona Harris + Mike McLeish
>i can’t do this review justice without spoilers 🚨 so for those who haven’t read and don’t wanna know, I suggest you stop here.. 🤐
Meet the drop-off trio..
Sam.. devoted dad who falls somewhere between cringe, aww and heartbreaking. He does find his balls about half way though and therefore his old self.
Megan.. single mum/ex model who is obsessed with her insta career and full of judgement. It takes a death for her to find a sudden change of heart and therefore some happiness.
And Lizzie.. my fav! Midwife and mum of 4 who is forever juggling all things life. She is honest and a straight shooter but is guilt ridden by her past.. not even her hubby knows!
These 3 met at Baytree Primary over school drop off and have formed a union of the forever kind. Week mornings banter over a coffee with there shared view of no care factor when it comes to the schools goings on is where it’s at, but then things get weird. All of a sudden the lollipop man dies just when new teacher Rick shows up.. but Rick ain’t new to all of them.. and Rick has a hidden agenda.
Meet Rick.. ex fiancé of Lizzie, who gave me stalker vibes from the start, which were later confirmed.. full blown psychopath!
And Greg.. who deserves husband of the year award! What a bloke! Kind, charming and supportive to boot! A guy who has his wife’s back.. dream!What starts off as a joke on Megan, turns into jokes on them all. Now everyone has all hands on deck preparing for the schools junior Christmas concert. For some it’s a welcome distraction and others it’s out of sheer obligation. And when it’s show time.. the adults bring their own kind of performance full of jealousy fuelled drama and childish gossip!
This was absolutely fab reading. It was witty, hilarious and somewhat felt scarily relatable. It gave me lots of smiles and is all things modern parenting with a side of all those non glory moments.
Whilst I LOVED how everything panned out, the ending did feel a bit rushed. A lot of build up to all of a sudden everything is fine. Written from all three points of view added another edge to the story. It gave it depth but yet light at the same time. Very clever that Sam’s was in letter format.. felt almost confessional.
I very much look forward to reading The Pick-up to see what happens next for this trio! A nod to all the real and beautiful friendships out there 👏
>i can’t do this review justice without spoilers 🚨 so for those who haven’t read and don’t wanna know, I suggest you stop here.. 🤐
Meet the drop-off trio..
Sam.. devoted dad who falls somewhere between cringe, aww and heartbreaking. He does find his balls about half way though and therefore his old self.
Megan.. single mum/ex model who is obsessed with her insta career and full of judgement. It takes a death for her to find a sudden change of heart and therefore some happiness.
And Lizzie.. my fav! Midwife and mum of 4 who is forever juggling all things life. She is honest and a straight shooter but is guilt ridden by her past.. not even her hubby knows!
These 3 met at Baytree Primary over school drop off and have formed a union of the forever kind. Week mornings banter over a coffee with there shared view of no care factor when it comes to the schools goings on is where it’s at, but then things get weird. All of a sudden the lollipop man dies just when new teacher Rick shows up.. but Rick ain’t new to all of them.. and Rick has a hidden agenda.
Meet Rick.. ex fiancé of Lizzie, who gave me stalker vibes from the start, which were later confirmed.. full blown psychopath!
And Greg.. who deserves husband of the year award! What a bloke! Kind, charming and supportive to boot! A guy who has his wife’s back.. dream!What starts off as a joke on Megan, turns into jokes on them all. Now everyone has all hands on deck preparing for the schools junior Christmas concert. For some it’s a welcome distraction and others it’s out of sheer obligation. And when it’s show time.. the adults bring their own kind of performance full of jealousy fuelled drama and childish gossip!
This was absolutely fab reading. It was witty, hilarious and somewhat felt scarily relatable. It gave me lots of smiles and is all things modern parenting with a side of all those non glory moments.
Whilst I LOVED how everything panned out, the ending did feel a bit rushed. A lot of build up to all of a sudden everything is fine. Written from all three points of view added another edge to the story. It gave it depth but yet light at the same time. Very clever that Sam’s was in letter format.. felt almost confessional.
I very much look forward to reading The Pick-up to see what happens next for this trio! A nod to all the real and beautiful friendships out there 👏
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2020
Funny and relatable to any parent of school age children.
June 13, 2020
The Drop-off is a heartwarming and hilarious novel that focuses on three main characters and their families. Lizzie, Megan and Sam meet up every morning at school drop-off at Baytree Primary for coffee and banter.
I absolutely loved Lizzie, Megan and Sam. I found them to be interesting and hilarious characters that I would totally enjoy hanging out with at school drop-off. They were also very real with flaws and I liked that the story POV alternated between the three of them which gave a nice insight into their different daily lives when they weren’t at school drop-off.
The secondary characters in this book provided their own witty humour and strong personalities that made them very likeable. The Drop-off was a fast-paced book and the plot kept me entertained and wanting to know more. It had me laughing out loud several times and I love how relatable it was. I really didn’t want this book to end!
Overall, The Drop-off was such an enjoyable, funny and relatable book. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys funny books with good family dynamics.
Thank you Fiona Harris for sending me a copy of this book :)
I absolutely loved Lizzie, Megan and Sam. I found them to be interesting and hilarious characters that I would totally enjoy hanging out with at school drop-off. They were also very real with flaws and I liked that the story POV alternated between the three of them which gave a nice insight into their different daily lives when they weren’t at school drop-off.
The secondary characters in this book provided their own witty humour and strong personalities that made them very likeable. The Drop-off was a fast-paced book and the plot kept me entertained and wanting to know more. It had me laughing out loud several times and I love how relatable it was. I really didn’t want this book to end!
Overall, The Drop-off was such an enjoyable, funny and relatable book. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys funny books with good family dynamics.
Thank you Fiona Harris for sending me a copy of this book :)
June 9, 2020
The Drop-Off is a hilarious and heartwarming novel about three parents, Lizzie, Megan and Sam, who became friends while dropping off their kids at primary school. They bond over good coffee and banter.
I instantly fell in love with Lizzie, Megan and Sam. They were all hilarious, good-hearted characters. They each had distinct, strong voices along with their own solid storyline’s. They all had their strengths and their flaws which made them fully dimensional characters and I found it easy to fall in love with each of them.
The writing style was quite interesting. The POV switches between the trio. Lizzie is written in first person, Megan’s is in third and Sam’s is written completely in emails to his friend. I enjoyed reading the story in this format. It made the voices of the characters really strong.
My favourite part of The Drop-Off was that it’s set in my area and so I felt immediately comfortable and knew all the locations and landmarks. The author, Mike McLeish, actually came to my home to give me the book to review!
Overall, this was a really fun, enjoyable read that had me laughing and gasping out loud. I highly recommend you pick this one up if you enjoy funny and lighthearted books.
I instantly fell in love with Lizzie, Megan and Sam. They were all hilarious, good-hearted characters. They each had distinct, strong voices along with their own solid storyline’s. They all had their strengths and their flaws which made them fully dimensional characters and I found it easy to fall in love with each of them.
The writing style was quite interesting. The POV switches between the trio. Lizzie is written in first person, Megan’s is in third and Sam’s is written completely in emails to his friend. I enjoyed reading the story in this format. It made the voices of the characters really strong.
My favourite part of The Drop-Off was that it’s set in my area and so I felt immediately comfortable and knew all the locations and landmarks. The author, Mike McLeish, actually came to my home to give me the book to review!
Overall, this was a really fun, enjoyable read that had me laughing and gasping out loud. I highly recommend you pick this one up if you enjoy funny and lighthearted books.
November 27, 2020
This is a great read, set in Melbourne at Baytree Primary the story centres around 3 parents, Lizzie, Megan and Sam, who have become accidental friends at School Drop Off.
Throughout the pages I got to enjoy a good giggle and many moments I found totally relatable. The story is told through each character in their unique way, Lizzie is through the first person, Megan’s chapters are through the 3rd person perspective and Sam he’s chapters are in email style to his friend Jack. There is a 4th person who appears in early chapters all to themselves who isn’t immediately identified.
Each character has their own life dramas going on, with their own unique and often amusing ways of handling things, from marriage breakdown, long held secrets, job satisfaction just to name a few.
My favourite character would definitely be Sam, I totally love his email communications with Jack.
This book is so real life! It’s amusing and heart-warming, if you haven’t read this one already, go and add this one to your TBR pile you won’t be disappointed.
Throughout the pages I got to enjoy a good giggle and many moments I found totally relatable. The story is told through each character in their unique way, Lizzie is through the first person, Megan’s chapters are through the 3rd person perspective and Sam he’s chapters are in email style to his friend Jack. There is a 4th person who appears in early chapters all to themselves who isn’t immediately identified.
Each character has their own life dramas going on, with their own unique and often amusing ways of handling things, from marriage breakdown, long held secrets, job satisfaction just to name a few.
My favourite character would definitely be Sam, I totally love his email communications with Jack.
This book is so real life! It’s amusing and heart-warming, if you haven’t read this one already, go and add this one to your TBR pile you won’t be disappointed.
September 15, 2021
Lizzie, Megan and Sam became accidental friends over good coffee, banter and wrong-world jokes at school drop off. None of them have much interest in their school community, but when tragedy deals Bayside Primary's reputation a potentially crippling blow, this unlikely trio have to step up. Forced out of their respective comfort zones, Lizzie, Megan and Sam learn more about each other, the school and themselves than they thought possible.
If you’re after a fun read, this is a great choice. There is a little mystery to the book, but nothing scary or intense. It goes through the lives of Lizzie, Megan and Sam as they manage being on the parent committee, having to go to camp, dealing with their own children and life issues as well.
I must admit, the mystery is a bit meh…sub par…but for the light, fun read it was fine. It was easy and lighthearted and honestly the book I needed at the time I read it.
If you’re after a fun read, this is a great choice. There is a little mystery to the book, but nothing scary or intense. It goes through the lives of Lizzie, Megan and Sam as they manage being on the parent committee, having to go to camp, dealing with their own children and life issues as well.
I must admit, the mystery is a bit meh…sub par…but for the light, fun read it was fine. It was easy and lighthearted and honestly the book I needed at the time I read it.
July 12, 2020
I loved this book. With 3 kids in primary school, this was totally relatable , hilarious and a delight to read.
January 4, 2021
Loved the schoolyard, teacher, Hamilton and Melbourne references. An easy read to start off the 2021 reading challenge.
May 27, 2022
Very funny story that any aussie parent can identify with.
May 21, 2020
The Drop-Off is a cheerful depiction of parenting culture, set in a middle-class primary school in the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne and told through the alternating points-of-view of three parents. Those who live in this area (including this reviewer) will recognise many of the secondary characters sketched out on the page, as well as the core concerns of the main characters. This is not a conflict-heavy book; indeed, the main conflict is almost silly in its lack of depth, and the final twist revolves only around whether a main character will make the same foolish mistake again. There is a shoe-horned attempt throughout to build a darker narrative, perhaps to adhere to current trends or in an attempt to deepen the tension, but it’s unnecessary and incongruous to the overarching tone of the novel. The pleasure of reading this book is that there is no real conflict, that these characters live a relatively fortunate existence—their minor concerns around getting older and still not having it all figured out might result in some personal angst and probably a wine-heavy night or three, but pose no real danger to the broader context of their lives. The Drop-Off is a slice-of-life depiction of upwardly mobile eastern Melbourne; pick this up if you enjoy gentle, if somewhat uncritical, satire.
2.5 stars
2.5 stars
March 7, 2021
3.5 stars
The Drop Off is a hilarious adult contemporary book about parents who form a community at their Primary School drop off! After reading some heavy fantasy lately, it was the perfect thing to pull me out of a slump.
Lizzie, Megan and Sam were larger than life characters, each with a different lifestyle. I loved hearing about Megan's social media business & her volunteering for the school play. Lizzie is a fun mum of 4 who finds the past facing her and needs to share the truth with her husband, while Sam is experiencing marital problems.
The book constantly kept me entertained with their antics and banter & I loved the Melbourne setting as well! Definitely recommended if you're looking for a light, fun entertaining read.
Thanks to the author for sending me a review copy!
Check out Happy Indulgence Book Blog for more reviews.
The Drop Off is a hilarious adult contemporary book about parents who form a community at their Primary School drop off! After reading some heavy fantasy lately, it was the perfect thing to pull me out of a slump.
Lizzie, Megan and Sam were larger than life characters, each with a different lifestyle. I loved hearing about Megan's social media business & her volunteering for the school play. Lizzie is a fun mum of 4 who finds the past facing her and needs to share the truth with her husband, while Sam is experiencing marital problems.
The book constantly kept me entertained with their antics and banter & I loved the Melbourne setting as well! Definitely recommended if you're looking for a light, fun entertaining read.
Thanks to the author for sending me a review copy!
Check out Happy Indulgence Book Blog for more reviews.
September 5, 2023
The Drop Off by Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish was completely underwhelming. The story circulated around working-mum-of-four Lizzie, single mum Meagan and stay-at-home-dad Sam who all met at Baytree primary school’s drop off. The storyline shifts between all three characters narration. I found Lizzie’s storyline the most interesting however the majority of the book was quite predictable, uninspired and lacklustre. Characters were boring, the writing style was lifeless and there was hardly any plot development. I don’t understand why people have raved about this one; perhaps, I expected too much based off the praising reviews or maybe the themes are outside my life experience to lack intrigue. The Drop Off was totally unexcitable.
July 14, 2020
My children have almost outgrown the primary school drop-off/pick-up days, and I am pretty sure that I will not be missing it very much. However, this book makes me almost feel nostalgic for the drama and laughter that comes with short intense social bursts with people you only know through your kids.
I loved the web series and was more than happy to spend some more time with Lizzie, Sam, and Megan, characters I am sure that those of us who have traversed the social waters of a school playground as a parent will be able to relate to. This has been a fantastic balm during a time of lockdown in Australia.
I loved the web series and was more than happy to spend some more time with Lizzie, Sam, and Megan, characters I am sure that those of us who have traversed the social waters of a school playground as a parent will be able to relate to. This has been a fantastic balm during a time of lockdown in Australia.
July 14, 2020
My children have almost outgrown the primary school drop-off/pick-up days, and I am pretty sure that I will not be missing it very much. However, this book makes me almost feel nostalgic for the drama and laughter that comes with short intense social bursts with people you only know through your kids.
I loved the web series and was more than happy to spend some more time with Lizzie, Sam, and Megan, characters I am sure that those of us who have traversed the social waters of a school playground as a parent will be able to relate to. This has been a fantastic balm during a time of lockdown in Australia.
I loved the web series and was more than happy to spend some more time with Lizzie, Sam, and Megan, characters I am sure that those of us who have traversed the social waters of a school playground as a parent will be able to relate to. This has been a fantastic balm during a time of lockdown in Australia.
July 14, 2020
I think every parent with school age children should read this book. It is oh so relatable (well some of it) and what a laugh. There were parts that had me in stitches. I particularly loved the email communication between Sam and "dickhead", I mean seriously even though it was one sided it was brilliant.
It was an absolutely stellar read that was bloody entertaining. I have my drop off gang and I might hand this book around because I think they would love it too.
It was an absolutely stellar read that was bloody entertaining. I have my drop off gang and I might hand this book around because I think they would love it too.
November 7, 2020
I was expecting to like this book, but I was surprised at how much I loved it!
It's a hilarious contemporary that focuses on friendship, motherhood and relationships. The characters were all amazing, and I found myself very invested in the story.
I definitely recommend this one.
It's a hilarious contemporary that focuses on friendship, motherhood and relationships. The characters were all amazing, and I found myself very invested in the story.
I definitely recommend this one.
October 20, 2022
I've never heard of parents actively hanging around at school during drop off time to chat with each other and gawk at their kids. Seems a bit creepy to me. Plus the side story with Lizzie's HUGE FAT SHAMEFUL SECRET was HUGE FAT UNDERWHELMINGLY BORING.
June 27, 2020
Just so much a puff piece. A big dark secret promised at the start is not intriguing or interesting and the plot is so formulaic it is banal. Pleasant read for anyone with limited expectations.
September 10, 2020
Australian readers will recognise Harris and McLeish (a couple IRL) from countless appearances on the film, TV, theatre and stand up circuits. Or if, like me, you’ve been in the kids’ entertainment zone for awhile you might also know them from stellar appearances on Storybox Library. McLeish’s reading of Kate and Jol Temple's Mike I Don’t Like is a big family favourite at Charming HQ. Go check it out! Harris is also an accomplished children’s writer – one half of the Super Moopers series team, which I reviewed on the blog here.
So, the book grew out of the pair’s innovative online-only comedy series The Drop-Off, which you can catch on YouTube or on the team’s Facebook page. The series feels like the parental flipside of that other innovative Australian book-to-TV series, Little Lunch – both of which draw attention to the weird, poignant, mundane and marvellous moments of life within a school community. School is such a huge part of our lives as children, full of character-building events, establishing memories that last a lifetime.
What I didn’t understand until I was a school-mum myself was how similar the personal growth learning curve was when one becomes a grown-up participant in that environment. Amazing friends that really ‘get you’? Tick. Low grade passive aggressive bullying? Also tick! Intimidating teachers? Tick (honestly? How old am I?) Quirky sideline players…groundskeepers…lollypop men…P & C enthusiasts. Some things don’t change. All of these oh-so-relatable features of school life make an appearance in The Drop-Off, with all the humour and pathos of our real world relationship with education providers.
At its heart, however, this is a story about adult friendship. Lizzie is a busy mum-of-four. She’s a midwife with the no-nonsense attitude and dark, razor sharp wit that often seems to go hand in hand with lifesaving health work. Megan is a former model and single mum, making her way as a children’s clothing entrepreneur. Sam, devoted dad, amazing cook, complicated marriage. Their friendship begins because they happen to have kids in the same grade – but it lasts because they know how to support each other through some of life’s big challenges…separation…illness…the school play!
The book’s vibe has been compared to Liane Moriarty’s novels – a sort of progressive ‘chick lit’, with complexity to the characters (regardless of gender) and more at stake than falling in love. The actual narrative arc sees Lizzie facing a crisis when her ex turns up as a teacher at the school. She has ‘a past’ with this guy, that even her husband doesn’t know about. Will it all come to light before she’s had a chance to confess? And how will her new friends feel about her when they know who she really is? It’s an enticing premise, but to be honest, it was the least important part of this book for me! What I really enjoyed was:
the punchy sarcasm…
'After two weeks of school holidays, Zara’s bedroom had reached a level of chaos that a black hole would applaud.'
relatable pop culture references from your pre-parenting days…
'I’d walk around London, Alanis screeching through my headphones as I sob-sang the entirerty of Jagged Little Pill. (These days I still went to Alanis for a dose of fortitude whenever I was feeling brittle.)'
and bat shit crazy moments that only a parent can possibly see as ‘normal’ on a day to day basis.
‘Which one’s his kid?’ Sam asked.
‘Jack.’
‘Which Jack?’ asked Megan.
‘Jack in 1/2C?’ Sam said.
Megan rolled her eyes. ‘There are four Jacks in 1/2C.’
‘No that’s 1/2D. There’s only three Jacks in 1/2C.’
‘Oh, Jack B from 1/2D?’ Megan asked, squinting as she tried to picture Dave’s son.
How do we still function as adults when conversations like this have started to actually make sense?
So, come for the school yard drama – stay for some really memorable one-liners from a talented comedy writing team, and a celebration of the people and environments we encounter every day yet sometimes take for granted.
You can read a longer version of this review at charminglanguage.com
So, the book grew out of the pair’s innovative online-only comedy series The Drop-Off, which you can catch on YouTube or on the team’s Facebook page. The series feels like the parental flipside of that other innovative Australian book-to-TV series, Little Lunch – both of which draw attention to the weird, poignant, mundane and marvellous moments of life within a school community. School is such a huge part of our lives as children, full of character-building events, establishing memories that last a lifetime.
What I didn’t understand until I was a school-mum myself was how similar the personal growth learning curve was when one becomes a grown-up participant in that environment. Amazing friends that really ‘get you’? Tick. Low grade passive aggressive bullying? Also tick! Intimidating teachers? Tick (honestly? How old am I?) Quirky sideline players…groundskeepers…lollypop men…P & C enthusiasts. Some things don’t change. All of these oh-so-relatable features of school life make an appearance in The Drop-Off, with all the humour and pathos of our real world relationship with education providers.
At its heart, however, this is a story about adult friendship. Lizzie is a busy mum-of-four. She’s a midwife with the no-nonsense attitude and dark, razor sharp wit that often seems to go hand in hand with lifesaving health work. Megan is a former model and single mum, making her way as a children’s clothing entrepreneur. Sam, devoted dad, amazing cook, complicated marriage. Their friendship begins because they happen to have kids in the same grade – but it lasts because they know how to support each other through some of life’s big challenges…separation…illness…the school play!
The book’s vibe has been compared to Liane Moriarty’s novels – a sort of progressive ‘chick lit’, with complexity to the characters (regardless of gender) and more at stake than falling in love. The actual narrative arc sees Lizzie facing a crisis when her ex turns up as a teacher at the school. She has ‘a past’ with this guy, that even her husband doesn’t know about. Will it all come to light before she’s had a chance to confess? And how will her new friends feel about her when they know who she really is? It’s an enticing premise, but to be honest, it was the least important part of this book for me! What I really enjoyed was:
the punchy sarcasm…
'After two weeks of school holidays, Zara’s bedroom had reached a level of chaos that a black hole would applaud.'
relatable pop culture references from your pre-parenting days…
'I’d walk around London, Alanis screeching through my headphones as I sob-sang the entirerty of Jagged Little Pill. (These days I still went to Alanis for a dose of fortitude whenever I was feeling brittle.)'
and bat shit crazy moments that only a parent can possibly see as ‘normal’ on a day to day basis.
‘Which one’s his kid?’ Sam asked.
‘Jack.’
‘Which Jack?’ asked Megan.
‘Jack in 1/2C?’ Sam said.
Megan rolled her eyes. ‘There are four Jacks in 1/2C.’
‘No that’s 1/2D. There’s only three Jacks in 1/2C.’
‘Oh, Jack B from 1/2D?’ Megan asked, squinting as she tried to picture Dave’s son.
How do we still function as adults when conversations like this have started to actually make sense?
So, come for the school yard drama – stay for some really memorable one-liners from a talented comedy writing team, and a celebration of the people and environments we encounter every day yet sometimes take for granted.
You can read a longer version of this review at charminglanguage.com
June 11, 2020
This is the PERFECT read if you're after something that is relatable, immediately gripping and down-right hilarious!
The story follows three parents Lizzie, Megan and Sam who have discovered friendship through coffee and banter (aka the perfect foundation to any friendship) at their local primary school drop-off.
The characters are all so unique and lovable, but, they aren't flawless which just makes them all the more human and relatable. The story is told from the three perspectives with each character getting their own writing style to match, Lizzie's story is told through first person, Megan's through third person and lastly Sam's story which is told entirely through emails.
Throughout the drop-off each character learns how to come to terms with the struggles in their lives; Lizzie coping with a past she thought she'd outrun for good. Megan learning how to be a single mum whilst also running a thriving online business, whilst ALSO being pranked into taking charge of the school's Christmas play. And Sam realising that the relationship he's been in is not looking to great. But luckily the friends have each other to lean on and good coffee is never too far away.
I wish I could join these parents for coffee and banter every morning, they're all so witty and down to earth and honestly, I'm really going to miss this group of friends! (and I definitely need a second book *cough* Fiona and Mike *cough*)
Overall, such an amazing read!
A massive thank you to Fiona Harris for reaching out to send me a copy of this book in return for an honest review. I absolutely loved it.
The story follows three parents Lizzie, Megan and Sam who have discovered friendship through coffee and banter (aka the perfect foundation to any friendship) at their local primary school drop-off.
The characters are all so unique and lovable, but, they aren't flawless which just makes them all the more human and relatable. The story is told from the three perspectives with each character getting their own writing style to match, Lizzie's story is told through first person, Megan's through third person and lastly Sam's story which is told entirely through emails.
Throughout the drop-off each character learns how to come to terms with the struggles in their lives; Lizzie coping with a past she thought she'd outrun for good. Megan learning how to be a single mum whilst also running a thriving online business, whilst ALSO being pranked into taking charge of the school's Christmas play. And Sam realising that the relationship he's been in is not looking to great. But luckily the friends have each other to lean on and good coffee is never too far away.
I wish I could join these parents for coffee and banter every morning, they're all so witty and down to earth and honestly, I'm really going to miss this group of friends! (and I definitely need a second book *cough* Fiona and Mike *cough*)
Overall, such an amazing read!
A massive thank you to Fiona Harris for reaching out to send me a copy of this book in return for an honest review. I absolutely loved it.
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