The warm thread of hope that runs through this book makes it an excellent read. Poetic and thoughtful in places. Great characters, great story, well-written. This is an author to watch.

Reviewed by Emma McElwee on 9th April 2021

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Lovely, unexpected tale that shows it's ok to be loud! Illustrations are great and the humorous touches (mammoth on a spa day?!) are great. Well worth buying.

Reviewed by Katie Merrick on 26th March 2021

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This was first published in the US in 2015, and  now has been published here in the UK, but the events of the book are shockingly as pertinent (or even more so?) six years later. It follows the build up to and aftermath of a truly horrific attack on a young black teenager, Rashan, who is falsely accused of shoplifting and resisting arrest and is then beaten to a bloody pulp by a police officer and hospitalised. We see events from Rashan's point of view and his classmate Quinn who happens to be passing by and is witness to the event.  It's an easily accessible read in style but that draws out the complicated relationships between characters and their motivations, and existing racial tensions in a really clever, subtle way that never feels cliched or heavy handed, and engages your sympathy for both characters. Definitely one to promote discussion or just a cracking story to get your teeth into and really think about.

Reviewed by Laura Hayward on 11th March 2021

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Magical realism/historical blend works very well, and this is a rip-roaring adventure of the first degree with a determined main character, spunky supporting cast, and sneaky villains. Great debut read, with a hint at more to come

Reviewed by Diane Gill on 1st March 2021

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Electrifying thriller with powerful characterisation and an excellent plot, full of shocking twists. Intelligently written and a really enjoyable read.

Reviewed by Katie Merrick on 22nd February 2021

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Excellent debut novel, with a strong central character and a compelling narrative. April and Bear's relationship is well described, although some events perhaps stretch credulity. Ideal for animal loving top juniors, and has class read potential.

Reviewed by Paul Cunningham on 17th February 2021

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An emotional roller-coaster of a story handling a number of serious issues sensitively through the eyes of a likeable main character that readers will be rooting for. A captivating read interspersed with some groan-worthy jokes! An author to watch.

Reviewed by Leanne Jephcott on 8th February 2021

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Gripping from the start, full of tension and thought provoking moments. The characters are recognisable and familiar to the reader. An excellent addition to teen collections. Worth having.

Reviewed by Dawn Franklin on 1st February 2021

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Powerfully effective storytelling, the short chapters told from each child's viewpoint adding to the emotional impact. Genuinely moving, especially the ending. Highly recommended.
Does not shy away from the horrors of war - we have categorised this as top Junior Fiction, but the depictions of the Holocaust, including concentration camps, may lead some to prefer this as Younger Teenage.

Reviewed by Paul Cunningham on 25th January 2021

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Hilarious misadventures of our miserable heroine have great appeal, and unexpectedly moving denouncement adds emotional depth. Really enjoyable debut

Reviewed by Katie Merrick on 19th January 2021

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A gripping page-turner from the start with believable characters you root for. For those who like to be on the sedge of your seat this is an ideal choice. A debut author worth watching

Reviewed by Dawn Franklin on 11th January 2021

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A great adventure story. Very readable and exciting, the writing is vivid and precise. This will inspire young readers to dream of unexplored lands. Good for all JF readers as chapters are a manageable length and keep you wanting more.

Reviewed by Emma McElwee on 11th January 2021

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The premise feels both wholly unlikely and horribly realistic but the dynamic between the main characters is strongly portrayed and it is this that keeps you turning the pages. Covers a range of issues & emotions, a pacey, if slightly exhausting read

Reviewed by Diane Gill on 7th January 2021

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Amusing tale with lively characters and expressive illustrations. Family are relatable and their storytelling skills very entertaining. Well worth stocking

Reviewed by Laura Hayward on 17th December 2020

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Gruesomely fascinating text supplies plenty of detail, and accompanying illustrations are great. Could be used for topic support or equally for general interest. References Covid-19

Reviewed by Lucy Forrester on 17th December 2020

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