Lowly’s Book Blog

Set in recent history, 1984, this coming-of-age story is far more complex than many in the genre. There are serious issues here, but they are handled gently and with a strong dash of humour,

Hester Jones is 15. Her best friend forever has just moved away and at least for now she has been included in the ‘in’ group. But her family threatens this secure position. She has the most embarrassing dad in the world and he is never going to let her grow up. Her Indian heritage makes her the focus of racist comments, even from her ‘friends’. Gradually Hester discovers her own path and moves forward in her life with confidence.

The blurb calls this book hilarious. I don’t think so. Perhaps the writing raised a few smiles as I proceeded through, but certainly no laughs. This is probably because the issues addressed are far too serious for laughter. Racism, religious fundamentalism, homosexual relationships and even child abuse are part of Hester’s year of growth. Personally I don’t find much of that a laughing matter.
Don’t get me wrong. I really enjoyed reading this book. I finished it with a lovely warm glow, and any book that provides that is a good read. Hester is a very credible character. And the period of time is portrayed very effectively. Dealing with recent history is often very difficult.

I remember that I loved my first introduction to Ishmael. I read aloud the opening introduction to the character in Bauer’s first book to my middle school classes regularly. So I was very interested in starting the further adventures of Ishmael Laseur.

The summer holidays are over, and book two follows Ishmael and his friends through their second year of high school. He still has a crush on Kelly; Barry Bagsley is still a bully; and Razza is still Razza. But this year his father’s band is reforming and the English teacher is introducing love poetry. Can life get any worse?

Once again this book is genuinely funny. There are a few laugh-out-loud moments, and a few bittersweet smiles for the reader to enjoy. In fact, enjoyment is what this book is all about. It is a real feel-good read, and there are not enough of these books for young adult readers.

Thank you Bauer for this entertaining read.

Good book, good cover. When is the last time that I said that! But this book from Scholastic Press is a funny book about a serious issue that is genuinely entertaining.

Theodore is branded on his first day of high school. He is lining up with all the other year 7s, not knowing a soul. When his name is called, he shuffles forward. A foot appears from nowhere and suddenly Theodore finds himself on top of the teacher who has landed on the ground. Someone from the crowd calls out Theo-dork and the nickname sticks.

From there the story goes through Danno’s first year of high school. He is bullied and absolutely miserable. His parents only make the situation worse. So Danno struggles to find his own niche. On the way he discovers talents and skills that he never suspected.

What I particularly liked about the story is the scene late in the book where Danno is given the opportunity for revenge on those who have made him so miserable. Realistically, he takes up the opportunity, but quickly regrets the pain and embarrassment that was caused.

Many books about school life deal with the issue of bullying, but this is one of the best because victim is empowered by his own strength of character and personal growth.