The Middler

Maggie Cruise is a middler. Her brother, Jed, is an eldest - special because he is the family’s first born. Her younger brother, Trig, is the little one, everyone’s favourite. Being a middler means she is overlooked and ignored, but Maggie yearns for recognition and success. Fennis Wick, where they live, is protected from the outside world by a thick hedge. Dirty, dangerous, deceitful wanderers roam the land, threatening their lives. But when Maggie meets Una Opal, a hungry wanderer who needs her help, everything Maggie has been led to believe is turned upside down.

I loved this book! Being a ‘middler’ myself, I recognised Maggie’s sense of frustration and injustice at being the invisible middle one- particularly as a girl between two boys. She is a wonderful figure, loving and loyal, but flawed, making an engaging main character. The world she lives in has been expertly crafted and filled with believable characters. Sent to fight in the Quiet War, sacrificing their lives at home for the good of their families, Eldests may seem to have the best of everything and live a charmed life, yet Jed and Lindi, another Eldest, are well rounded characters, shown to have worries about their future as well. Trig is lovely- full of life and skilled in his own way.

Gripping from start to finish, this is a one-sitting sort of book which completely captivates you. Although there are dark moments full of menace, the story is ultimately uplifting and full of hope and love. Highly recommended, this is a fabulous read.

The Middler

Kirsty Applebaum

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1788003452

Troofriend

I AM A TROOFRIEND.

I DO NOT BULLY.

I DO NOT HARM.

I DO NOT LIE.

I DO NOT COVET OR STEAL OR ENVY.

I AM YOUR PERFECT FRIEND.

YOUR

ONE

TROOFRIEND.

The ideal companion for children with busy parents, Troofriend is sold as a safe, reliable friend. Sarah’s mother believes this is just what her daughter needs, although Sarah herself is not so sure. Named Ivy (after the Mark IV label on her arm), Sarah’s Troofriend initially spends much of her time turned off. When a Bring Your Tech to School Day offers her the chance to gain the attention of the popular children at school and make it a less horrible place, Sarah decides that she and Ivy will become best friends. However, there is more to Ivy than meets the eye and as Troofriends hit the headlines for the wrong reasons, Sarah has to ask herself whether she is a true friend.

Kirsty Applebaum dished up an amazing story with ‘The Middler’ and ‘Troofriend’ is another fabulous piece of writing. It is an essential read so I must be careful not to give too much away about the plot.

The story challenges from the first page, raising many philosophical questions effortlessly. Perfect for guided reading, there is so much to discuss and explore in these pages, but most importantly, it is a compelling story with engaging characters. Sadly, many children will readily identify with Sarah having busy parents and the tech that fills their lives as entertainment in place of human interaction. Bring back ‘Ball-in-a-Sock’ and wondering at rainbows!

‘Troofriend’ is an engaging and thought provoking read, touching and challenging in turn. Add it to your TBR pile- at the top!

Troofriend

Kirsty Applebaum

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1788003476