Wow! What a poignant book about school yard bullying, vindictiveness and self awareness. Enjoyed the fact that it was written from the bully's perspective and how their behaviour affects others. I can see why this book won the Nestle Book Prize in 2004. The bully is Sam and despite his Mum's insistence, Sam doesn't want to be friends with Davey. Sam thinks Davey's a first class, grade A, top of the dung heap moron. But one day Davey saves Sam's life and a bond is formed between them. Sam is still embarrassed to be seen with Davey, but little by little he has to admit, when it's just the two of them, Davey is a lot of fun. But then something terrible happens to Davey because of Sam's nastiness....This incident changes the two boys lives for ever. 5/5 ( )

This is unlike any other children's story I have ever read. A series of 26 short poems, telling the story of Sam and Davey, and all about bullying and friendship, secrets and lies, and the terrible thing that happened one day ...

Told entirely in Sams' voice, the poems are mostly in a prose style, following rhythms of speech and thought. The poems really do capture Sam's emotional turmoil. There is no need for unnecessary explanation, it's all in the words. But in between are also ones composed in haiku, limerick and blank verse styles. The author explains the forms in an afterword, which will be useful to young readers. Each of the poems is also illustrated with lovely drawings by Helen van Vliet which capture the sentiments within each section beautifully.

This is a remarkable read for about 8yrs and upwards. Like all poetic forms, it would be even more moving spoken aloud, and also useful as a tool to talk about bullying. ( )

From LETTERBOX LIBRARY:

Superb writing and a sure hit by the Smarties silver award winner. An extraordinary, compelling and imaginative narrative about bullying, friendship and loss. Age 8+ Paperback 157pp

Price: £4.99