Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
The Not-So Great Escape
Hedley Ambrose has become extremely cautious since the crash which changed his life for ever. His grief stricken father has retreated to his bed and Hedley now attends the Bridlebank Therapy Activities Centre each weekend, where his room mate, Aiden, constantly mistreats him. Keen to encourage both boys out of themselves, Hedley’s support worker, Nic, decides they would benefit from working at the local petting zoo, home to an alpaca named Duke. When Aiden decides to steal Duke, Hedley, fearing he will be blamed for the crime, along with his little sister, Lilly, find themselves on a quest to take Duke to a rescue centre which becomes increasingly chaotic and out of control until Hedley finds he must face the truth that he has been running from all along.
Oh my word- ‘The Not-So Great Escape’ is an incredible story which packs a huge emotional punch!
As the story begins, readers are aware that Hedley has experienced a traumatic loss which has left him hugely vulnerable whilst also trying to care for his father. He is such a lovely boy whose big heart and gentle nature make him incredibly appealing and easy to empathise with. He worries endlessly about the possible consequences of every scenario and accepts Aiden’s relentless bullying as part of his life. Caught up in a series of events over which he has no control, Hedley is forced to take risks and the relationship between the two boys gradually shifts and an understanding develops between them allowing the reader to see Aiden in a different light, encouraging empathy and understanding of how he behaves, whilst recognising he has made some very poor choices along the way.
In many places the book reads like a slap-stick comedy as the children and Duke lurch from one crazy situation to another with the ‘Alpaca Bandit’ growing in fame and attracting media attention, their exploits leaving a trail of chaos and destruction behind them, making it a very entertaining read. However, although there are some inklings along the way, the ending is a real shocker, deeply poignant, expressing raw emotion. It is beautifully handled, but teachers or other adults suggesting this for young children should be aware of the emotional impact this might have on them.
Quite outstanding!
The Not-So Great Escape
Emma Green
Usborne ISBN: 978-1836045663