The Carnegies

I loved this book and I loved the twists and turns. I especially loved watching the main character change throughout the book. My favourite bit was when the main character stood up to the bullies. Overall it was amazing!

Florence
Plumites

I didn't have very high expectations when I first started reading this book, but, as it went on, it just got better and better and even unpredictable at times. I really enjoyed it and thought it was a good story to teach others about toxic masculinity, as the world today still struggles with it. I loved how Nanna was presented and also loved how much she resembled my own grandmother in personality.

Maya
Ely College Reading Group

I was quite looking forward to reading 'King of Nothing' after recognising the name from a book on last year's shortlist, 'Steady For This'. I enjoyed that book in an odd way. There are obvious similarities between Shaun in that book and Anton in this. However, the differences are clearer. Shaun from the earlier novel is bumbling fool who is charming as a result. Anton from this story has none of those qualities at the start. His whole mind set is skewed wrongly and the only good thing in his list of values is his respect for his Mum. He hangs around with the wrong crowd and acts in the way he thinks he should to go with his image. As his attitude begins to alter due to circumstances, he becomes a more likeable character. I also recognised elements of previous character, Shaun in the character of Matthew. One of the best aspects of the novel is how you slowly come to realise how apt the title is. Anton comes to an understanding he is in fact king of nothing at all that has any real value. So on reflection I enjoyed this book too for its 'feel good' values.

Mr Hyde
Marshland Readers

It good

Rafael
Horsham BOok HUNTers

King of Nothing is a fantastic social realism book, written by Nathaneal Lessore, it recounts the story of Anton, a school bully who uses his convict father to gain popularity and respect. We get to witness the evolution of Anton, who once spent his time with other sexist and rude kids. After being rescued by a loser, Mathew, his point of view changes, showing the reader how easy it is to change and how helping someone who most view as nothing, but a waste of space can be a catalyst for that person changing into a better version of themself.Anton attempts to repay him by teaching Mathew how to be ‘cool’. Just by changing his environment we see how Anton changes his way of thinking. This book shows us that being yourself isn’t always a bad thing and a change of environment can be essential if u want to change. I loved the character development, how Anton improves himself is quite wholesome. The book was really enjoyable and quite funny(I loved how funny Mathew was).

MuzzammilHG
4Shadowers

King of Nothing is a coming-of-age novel about reputation, peer pressure and true friendship. My favourite scene comes at the beginning when the narrator Anton drives his Nanny to the hospital on the bus. It's hilarious and shows the great bod these two family members have. Most of the dialogue is very witty, blended seamlessly into the conversations. On the other hand, characters development seemed a bit rushed to me compared to the other Carnegie shortlisted books. Anton seemed to be jumping from one extreme to the other, while a lot of the side characters felt one-dimensional. That said, I think this book still outperforms many other teenage school/friendship stories and discusses important topics like masculinity and peer-pressure. I would recommend this book to kids who like school stories like Diary of Wimpy Kid.

Ms Čechová
NA Book Club

In this book it is about a boy called Anton and his friends rule the school. The kids of the school other than his friend group would stay away from him and that's the way Anton likes it. But then the the biggest loser saves his life and they have an unlikely friendship which changes his perspective of life forever....

Samuel
BFS Umbra Readers

I really enjoyed this book because it was filled with jokes and funny references. It shows Anton, who was known for how his dad was sent to prison. This gave him a reputation which protected him. But when his life is unexpectedly saved by Mathew, he starts to realise that he can make his own reputation but he has to keep it from his friends. I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.

Alfie S
Ermysted’s

For me it had the same issue as 'Steady for This' and didn't really work for me, BUT I think that this type of book can be brilliant as it encourages people who are familiar with the language used and wouldn't normally read to read.

Max
The High Storrs Shadows

This was definitely one of my favourite books from the shortlist I thought that all the characters where really interesting and diverse. The book expressed feelings and emotions such as grief and forgiveness and stepping outside of your comfort zone. I thought that Anton’s friends specifically Kehinde where such prime examples of the misogynistic brainwashing that happens to teenage boys all the time and I liked how Nathaniel Lessore showed the challenges that some teenagers face trying to get out of that mental state and then the fear of not being so popular and not fitting in as well. Antons mum was one of my favourite characters I loved how powerful and caring she was and never stopped believing in her own son. Matthew was the sweetest character ever OH MY DAYS I loved him he was so sweet and I felt as though he genuinely cared about Anton and not popularity he was just such a little sweetie pie I give it a 4/5

Faith
Logs

In this book, I really liked that sense of how just one thing could unexpectedly turn your whole life round in a completely opposite direction to the one you are facing. Knowing that Anton's dad is in prison from the start really I think impacts the world Anton already is thinking about. The book was also funny and made me laugh a few times.

Eva
BexleyGS

King of Nothing is a meaningful book about Anton’s changing personality. It takes place in south London, in a very modern setting. The fact that Anton’s emotions are relatable made the book much more interesting. Many moments in this book were very funny, like when Anton goes on the trip with the Happy Campers and they start singing badly; however some moments were suspenseful like when Anton’s dad in prison texts him, creating a contrast and adding depth. This book shows us a lot of things, like how you should never judge someone based on their appearance and get to know them before being judgemental. It also shows us that it’s never too late to change because Matthew and Rochelle forgive Anton for his actions after realising that he is actually a very nice person, made a bully by Kehinde and his other old friends.

YinanHG
4Shadowers

King of nothing is an emotional book. Anton who is year nine has a dad who is in prison, which makes him feel like he needs to act tough around people. When Matthew and Anton get closer, Anton begins to loosen up showing his true emotions. I think that ages 11-13 would be best for this book.

Jack
Ermysted’s

‘King of Nothing’ follows the story of a young boy named Anton. Anton is seen as the king of the school, because of the boys he hangs out with, and prison-bound father, but he soon finds that being the king of everything has its consequences. In an attempt to earn back his wifi after a detention, Anton joined ‘the happy campers’. At first, he believes it’s going to be one of the worst experiences of his life, but after Matthew saves his life, Anton knows he must repay him. Through the story we watch the boys’ unlikely friendship flourish as well as watching Anton make tough decisions. Does he remain the king of the school, but ruins his friendship with Matthew, or keep his friendship but becomes the king of nothing… I loved this book! ‘King of Nothing’ pulled on my heartstrings , leaving me laughing for hours, or crying into the pages. The use of fun puns and jokes made a heavier theme of peer pressure, more lighthearted. I loved how this book was written in first person, allowing us to hear Anton's deepest thoughts and feelings, as I believe it added another layer to the story. As well as this, reading a book about male friendships for an older age category was refreshing and interesting. 3 reasons to read: ‘King of Nothing’ The plot: King of Nothing contains plot twists that will leave you on the edge of your seat, desperate to know what’s going to happen next. Throughout the story, Anton encounters many unexpected situations, changing the narrative completely. By one turn of the page, one chapter or even one word, the story could change entirely The characters: the king of nothing’s characters all add their own uniqueness to the story, and each teach Anton a lesson, whether it’s the power of friendship and kindness, or whose worthy to have in your life The jokes: some of the one-liners in this book will have you laughing out loud and chuckling for hours! The jokes make a heavy, deep story more lighthearted, and relatable. Hopefully I've been able to give you some insight as to why King of Nothing is a great book, and have convinced you to read it. Nathanael Lessore has given standard themes of peer pressure and unlikely friendship, a new, deeper meaning. This book creates a range of emotions and will leave you wishing the book was longer.

Siena
Parmiter’s Carnegie Book Shadows

It was a good portrayal of the hard expectations of muscularity , young men have, to live up to in today's society. I could relate to it and empathise with the characters.

Jason
Harris Legends

This book was definitely the first to ever make me actually laugh out loud, and Anton's vocabulary and clever comparisons made it really easy to understand. I really enjoyed it because although there was a comedic aspect to it, it also highlighted the challenges of secondary school, and how different factors, such as school, friends and family, can impact the way you act and speak.

Favour
St Angela’s Reading Angels

King of Nothing is a bold, funny novel by Nathanael Lessore - the story follows Anton, a confident Year 9 student at a South London secondary school, who is known being tough and his reputation as the "King" of his year. However, his mother unexpectedly enrolls him in the Happy Campers, a local activity group, as a consequence of his troubles at school. Initially, Anton is disappointed to find that Matthew, considered to be ‘a loser’ at his school, is also a member. Despite their differences, a surprising event led to Matthew saving Anton's life, encouraging Anton to reconsider his judgment. As their unlikely friendship begins to develop, Anton starts to question the values that have defined his identity; the toxic masculinity and peer pressure that have influenced his behavior. Through witty dialogue and character development, Lessore explores themes of identity, friendship, and personal growth. Anton’s journey reflects the complexities of adolescence, highlighting the challenge of navigating social expectations and peer pressure. King of Nothing offers a narrative that would resonate most with teenage readers. Overall, I really enjoyed this book – the book was relatable and the dialogue was fun, if a little awkward to read at times! I rate this book a 9/10.

Zainab
Beauchamp Champs 2025

A hilarious, heartfelt story of friendship, identity, and growing up in South London. Lessore blends sharp humour with emotional depth, making this an essential, relatable read—especially for teens navigating boyhood, class, and complex relationships with family. A must-read for all.

Jola
Beauchamp Champs 2025

King of Nothing was very enlightening for me, as it showed the pressure that teenage boys face from their friends and school. I enjoyed the book, but I did feel that Anton's character development and behaviour changes were rather unrealistic - he completely changed his personality and his views toward women and school in a very short span of time. I do feel that this book could be educational to teenagers as it has some important messages about equality and gangs.

Elizabeth
Augustine’s Carnegie Challenge

I haven’t finished this book yet, but so far I have found it my favourite out of the ones I have read. I enjoy reading the topics it addressed like toxic masculinity and liked the differences portrayed through Matthew and Anton. I would definitely recommend so far.

Lily
LSST Library Shadowers

King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is probably one of my favourite books this year. As it has beautifully built characters as well as a unique and intricate story . It almost feels like the characters are weaved into the story perfectly. The whole story also shows what peer pressure is and how you can make ‘friends’ but those so called friends are just holding you back from your true potential. It also shows you should always be yourself and if they don’t like your true self then they are not real friends. In conclusion it’s a beautifully made story that I highly recommend to everyone.

William s
Ermysted’s

The book ' king of nothing ' is about a boy called Anton who is in year 9. His dad is in prison and he lives with his mum and nana. Anton is popular at school and he has a reputation for being mischievous, and as punishment for his behaviour his mum sends him to the happy campers. Anton hates it but a boy in his class called Mathew befriends him. Anton isn't a fan of Mathew. But during a camping trip Mathew saves Anton's life and Anton soon realises that his friendship with Mathew is more important than his reputation. Overall I really enjoyed his book it has been my favourite so far, and I really liked Anton's character development throughout the book.

Morgan
Augustine’s Carnegie Challenge

King of Nothing Nathanael Lessore King of Nothing includes references to crime, arson, vandalism, death, gang violence, and domestic violence. King of Nothing is a story following a boy called Anton, who "rules the school" alongside his friends Caleb, Marcus and Kehinde, with his reputation built on his father's crimes and imprisonment. After getting into trouble for misbehaving at school, he is forced to volunteer at a group named The Happy Campers, where a quirky boy from his class, Mathew, saves his life. This causes Anton to rethink his academic and personal life, leading up to a heated final confrontation with his previous friends. The book delves into subjects like finding your identity and how toxic masculinity narrows our perspective on things and people. As the story progresses, Anton learns that real, healthy friendships and good grades are more important than his reputation. Mathew gives us comic relief and as almost an example of what Anton will, in a sense, become. Someone who isn't concerned with their reputation. He respects Antons wishes to keep their friendship secret, as Anton fears it could damage his reputation, but when Mathew needs Antons help saving the Woman's Shelter mural, Anton helps him and stands up to Kehinde, turning away from the violent path his father and Kehinde have taken. Anton is a relatable character, as he struggles to find his identity, struggles to balance out reputation with friendships, experiences loss and despite multiple bad influences, ultimately does the right thing. The differences between the characters make a tone for an good story and interesting character dynamics, Anton originally being portrayed as cool, strong, violent and not very intelligent, Mathew is portrayed as the opposite, uncool, weak, feeble and intelligent, which are both classic stereotypes. Anton, however, breaks away from this and becomes a better version of himself, following the death of his Gran, who was a big part of his life. Altogether, I think this book is very good for teaching about life problems, bit also a numerous and largely entertaining read, which I would recommend to a friend

Albie
Bookwizards

The book is amazing and intriguing. I couldn't stop reading! The plot is very interesting that is also relatable to many. At first, I thought the book was a bit stereotypical. However I think it made a great contrast, as when Anton became a better person with Mathew, he started using less slang and more educational language. The author has conveyed the image of equality very well. I like the fact how Nathaniel has shown children, equality, through art. It also conveys the message of perseverance, as when Kehinde burns St Johns down. Anton and his mother still persevere to present their art and area for women to the town. The book also shows to be courageous. There are many acts of courage such as, Anton holding a tarantula, and Mathew asking out Fernanda. This shows children that anything is possible. I especially like this book as it not only interpreted courage but also many other scenarios that will possibly occur for me when I am an adult. It also shows, that you must be with the right people who support what you want to do. I also like how Nathaniel uses the Grandma's death in King of Nothing. I like this because it shows people who are struggling with the death of loved ones, how to go through the pain by speaking with people who are close to you.

Jinesh
Perusing Pelicans

Anya
Beauchamp Champs 2025

This book starts off very interestingly, unlike other books. It takes a bit of time to fully understand what is happening and going on but when you do understand, the book touches your heart. It is about Anton, who is the 'King of School' because his dad is in jail. His whole life, he has believed being popular is the biggest goal for everyone. So when a quirky and nerdy boy called Matthew saves Anton's life, Anton begins to question his values. This book explores teenage friendships and different types of school people, from the nerdy ones to the popular ones. I really enjoyed reading the book.

Anya
Beauchamp Champs 2025

This book is about a kid named Anton who is the king of the school. He and his friends rule the school and the other kids steer clear when they're about. One day in happy campers Matthew, the biggest loser in class, unexpectedly saves his life. They both become really good friends but Anton doesn't want anyone else to see or else he will lose his reputation of being king.

Alisha
Fiction Addiction

'King of Nothing' is a poignant and humorous exploration of adolescence, identity, and the challenges of growing up. Nathanael Lessore crafts a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making it a valuable read for young adults navigating similar issues. While it may not offer groundbreaking plot twists, its strength lies in its authentic portrayal of character growth and the importance of self-discovery. Certain characters, such as the antagonist, may come across as one-dimensional or stereotypical, lacking the depth seen in the protagonist's development. However despite addressing serious themes, Lessore infuses the narrative with humour and sharp dialogue. Anton's interactions with Matthew, a quirky and optimistic peer, provide moments of levity and showcase the development of a genuine friendship.

Sophie
Marshland Readers

This wonderful story is packed full of laughs while also dealing with issues such as toxic masculinity, bullying, loss, grief, family and friendship. It made me laugh and cry. I loved the characters of Anton and Matthew and felt the writer did a brilliant job creating their personalities. A brilliant book.

Rachel
Bilbo Baggins’ Bookworms

Anya
Beauchamp Champs 2025

As a girl who supports women's rights this book offers something that I had never really explored before, the dangers of toxic masculinity and influence of others on young boys growing up in today's society. It was amazing to see Anton finding his way through these challenges even when faced with blockade in his path from his friends and dad

Emily
Lionheart25

I loved this book. It has a very relatable and funny storyline. The author uses a different blend of themes to explore Antony's journey of identity, friendship and personal growth. It shows varying perspectives on the challenges faced by teens.

Dara
Grays Shadows

'King of Nothing' by Nathanael Lessore was a very complex but cohesive book on the gritty realities and hardships of the modern society. It includes many deep life lessons and talks about many important themes. And although at the start I found the language was a bit cringey, as the story progressed I started to warm up to it and it became quite funny and at many points I defiantly laughed to myself. I think there was a perfect balance between humour and sadness and I loved to follow Anton as he grew and learned what was really important in life. One of my favourite parts was the ending as it was very satisfying and I could not put the book down. Overall this has been one of my favourite reads in a while and I would give it a very solid 9.5/10!

Violet
The John Mason Shadowers

I absolutely loved King Of Nothing. I thought the writing was very good. I also thought the story was amazing and I liked how it showed how your views are often influenced by those around you for example Anton's views were influenced by his friends and their podcast; however, as he learn more and met new people he learned more, and as he became friends with Matthew his views changed for the better as he learnt about toxic masculinity and its effects. I think the book had a brilliant message and I also loved the character Matthew.

Evie
STAGS Shadowers

I found King of Nothing to be a surprisingly heartfelt read. While it starts off a bit heavy and introspective, the story gradually builds into something more meaningful. The characters are flawed but relatable, and there's a quiet emotional depth that sneaks up on you as the book progresses. I especially appreciated how things turned out toward the end—it was nice and quite wholesome in a way that felt earned rather than forced. Definitely worth reading if you're in the mood for something thoughtful with a soft landing.

Trinity
Augustine’s Carnegie Challenge

I could really connect with Anton (not in a bad way though) as the age group and difference is not much (only 2 years)

Agasthya
BexleyGS

I thought King of Nothing was alright, but I didn’t really enjoy it that much. Anton’s story was interesting, and I get what the book was trying to show about friendships and acting tough, but it just didn’t grab me. Some parts felt a bit slow, and I didn’t really connect with the characters. I liked a few moments especially when he started to change, but overall it wasn’t really my kind of book.

Zack
Carnegie Elizabethans

King of Nothing was a great book telling the story of Anton, and how him and his gang rule the school. But someone in his class starts to make Anton realise that being king might not be the best thing to be. I like this book and how realistically it was written - the story told could easily have happened in real life. My favourite character was Rochelle, a girl in Anton's class, because she always stood up for other people and didn't care what others thought. I also liked the way Anton became more aware of what he was doing at the start of the book and how as the story progressed he began to change. There wasn't much I disliked about King of Nothing, it was a great read highlighting the existence of struggles to do with friendships and school lots of young people are challenged with.

Emma M
VISTA Academy

King of Nothing is a narrative that will take you far beyond any day-to-day stories. Filled with an abundance of emotion, this book tackles both the struggles and triumphs of Anton, a Year 9 boy, whom the whole school fears. It takes you through his different friendships in school and hardships at home, as well as other topics such as gender equality. Nathanael Lessore’s style of writing mimics the thoughts and words that a present day child would say and think. This uncommon factor in his book brings in a light-hearted, comedic aspect, making King of Nothing a sensational read.

Rhea
Parmiter’s Carnegie Book Shadows

11/10. I LOVED ‘King of Nothing’! It was such an interesting story to follow - from being negatively influenced to becoming a symbol of determination and hard work, Anton’s journey of turning his life around will be an inspiration to all that read this amazing book! How can I forget the humor? I was laughing for hours! Definitely recommend!

Isabella
CHSG readers

I enjoyed this book lots, and liked how it was written. I think I enjoyed it because it seemed like a real situation someone could find themself in, but it also seemed unrealistic that it would get resolved so fast. It also grabbed me into the story, and I was wanting to find out what his dad had done. I also found it strange that Matthew fainted when he saw a tiny bit of blood, and that he thought his grandad dying was related to depth perception of a frisbee. I liked that the plot was fairly complex, but not so complex that it was impossible to understand. Overall I give this book an 8/10.

Edward M
Ermysted’s

The book was very interesting and had very funny moments in it. The way it included gen-Z language made it quite amuzing and and more intriguing

FLETCHER
SMMA BOOKWORMS

At first glance, I did not think 'Kinging of Nothing' would be such a good book. The front cover shows a boy standing with his arms crossed, smiling snobishly at the camera, and I could immediately tell that he (Anton, the protagonist of this book) has a problem with his ego. After reading the first chapter, my point was proved. I didn't immediately like this book. However, it only took me two chapters to completely dive into it anyways. One of the main reasons was because it's extremely funny, and what I also love about it is that is very random, so if a scene gets boring, some random comment will just make you raise your eyebrows or laugh or stare at the page in disbelief. There are so many plot twists, so many times when you're frustrated at the main character because of his decisions or at other characters, like Matthew, for being so embarassing, and Kehinde, for not having any common sense, and it helps you stay attached to the book and keep reading, not that you could stop. The character goes through a lot of problems, dilemmas, and events, that, although not that serious, make him think and learn. Throughout the book, he changes a lot, his way of seeing, the people he hangs out with, his tolerance and also becomes more aware; he realises that he still has a lot to learn, that he has subconsciously been shaping his life around past events, and so on. As he becomes more aware of these things, he starts figuring out who he wants to be, and appreciating the people around him, his mum and Nana, and even though he isn't 'King of the school' anymore, he is the most happy, full, more-lovable Anton he has ever been. My favourite character was obviously Matthew, and I think he represents a lot in this book. Even though he's quirky, weird, nerdy and really random, to the point where you have to take a few seconds to process what he's just said, he never changes, despite what people say to him and the way they treat him at school. Anton tries to change him during the book, the way he speaks, his clothing, his texting, but apart from his haircut and the way he wears his clothes, Matthew's personality never changes, and he never stops being Matthew all the way until the end. I think it shows Anton, and the readers, that you don't need to be a certain person to get something in life. You just need to be yourself. If Matthew can get a girlfriend while being himself, then anything is possible, right? I highly recommend this book. It ticks off all the criterias for what a good book needs, you laugh on literally every single page of this book, the characters are amazing, and even though a first glance, it might seem like one big joke and a bit stupid, it is much more profound than that, and the moral it holds makes you think and realise, along with the character. It shows that you can change in such a short period of time, because of just one event, and also makes how much your family and friends shape your life.

Giselle
CFBL

King of Nothing is a bold, funny, and emotionally honest look at teenage identity, friendship, and masculinity. Anton's voice leaps off the page, full of self-doubt, and heart and Lessore captures the pressure of trying to be someone you're not just to fit in. The dialogue is sharp and full of slang, which adds authenticity but might be tricky for some readers to follow. Still, it's a powerful, relatable read that shows there's strength in vulnerability and value in being true to yourself.

Zack
Carnegie Elizabethans

I like this book as it delves into how external influencers can affect our lives, both positively and negatively. It shows that it is up to us who we choose to be influenced by. However i found the language a little cringe, and not especially funny.

Charlie
Carnegie Elizabethans

'King of Nothing' by Nathanael Lessore is a compelling novel about the teenage struggles regarding friendship groups and popularity. Towards the beginning of the book, I found that the main character, Anton, was deliberately written as unlikable, and that the sexist and disrespectful themes made it difficult to read at first. However, towards the later chapters, after Matthew heroically saves his life, it made the character development more evident and satisfactory. From about half way through, the book became unputdownable, and I began to really enjoy the character dynamics and the way it ended happily. I think that it was excellently written, and a pleasant read, and I would recommend it to anybody who enjoys a contemporary read with a great ending.

Emily
Carnegie Elizabethans

I liked the book King of Nothing because having fake friends like in the book is a scenario that happens to many people in real life and this book shows how someone can get out of that situation.

Davide
TPS Carnegie Collective

This book cover really caught my eye while we were looking at which book I was going to do for this project, especially the title “King of Nothing”, which represents power, but at what cost? Furthermore, the book’s colour contrast was really well thought of by the author as someone who can relate to the modern world with these new school systems and graffiti present at every corner in London. However, the book’s cover isn't really relevant to the book’s content as graffiti does not play a big part inside the book, except the crown that could be relevant. The choice of font though was really well thought with it being tilted and faded, which catches the eye. The colour would convey the mood with the book as purple, this gives a kind of a dark and incomplete feeling when you see this colour. This does contrast well with the background with the city, or alleyway vibe with the sunset, which is blocked by the narrow buildings. Finally, the book is visually striking with the book title being in the centre of the book with a very big and unique font, which will grab your attention. The author is at the bottom and easy to read. The book would also look good in both large and small sizes with its unique and large fonts.

Edouard
CFBL

This book based on Anton and his life in secondary school (around year 8 or 9) is about young Anton, the king at school and part of the mandem who causes mayhem. He interrupts class, gets lots of detentions and has plenty of fights. His life changes when the loser in his class saves his life and he begins to question what he has been doing. This book has a couple twists but mainly this great book is emotionally based. Yes this book is fiction but it also has great meaning to it and makes you want to think about your life and how change can be a good thing. I think that if you enjoy reading fiction and emotional stories then this is a great book for you. I would definitely recommend this to my friends and classmates.

Gizelle
Parmiter’s Carnegie Book Shadows

I really enjoyed reading King of Nothing. I found that the style of writing was very different from other books that I have read, as it had the voice of the teenager, rather than an adult one, and it also had the same style as if the narrator was orally speaking. I loved the romantic side story that was incorporated very nicely into the book, and the ending was emotional. I found that I could relate in many ways to the book: being a teenagerr in school and trying to find my place, losing a grandmother without being able to do anything, and finding out that the people we surround ourselves with don't have to be the most obvious option. I thought that it was truly incredible that an adult author could write something so close to a teenager’s reality. I would also like to add that my younger brother, who hates reading for several reasons, read King of Nothing in less than two days. He had never read such a long book, he had never read without having to be forced too, and he even told me : “when you finish it, tell me so we can talk about it!” I was awed at how quickly he read it, and with such little resistance compared to other books that my parents have tried forcing him to read. My parents have ordered the other books written by Nathanael Lessore, Steady for This, and What Happens Online and my brother is very excited to read them both. This also shows that the book can be appreciated by older and younger readers, with jokes that maybe he didn't understand, but that I found deeper meaning in. Kind of Nothing was an easy read, but with a captivating story full of life that brought tears to my eyes. I also felt that the emotion was conveyed very clearly, and I found explanations for deep emotions that I hadn't fully understood in the past.

Lily
CFBL

‘King of Nothing’ tells the story of Anton, a Year 9 student with the reputation of being ‘King’ of his school. But when his mother decides to reprimand him for his recent behavior by making him join a local youth group, Anton is forced to question his own identity and life choices when he decides to help William, the school ‘loser’, to become popular to impress another student. As I read the book I was surprised by how what I thought began as a modern interpretation of George Bernard Shaw’s ‘Pygmalion’ (with Anton trying to make William ‘cool’), actually became more like Charles Dicken’s ‘A Christmas Carol’, with the characters of Anton’s Nanna, William and Anton’s ex-con’ father encouraging Anton to look at his actions in the past, the present and the consequences for the future – if he does not change his ways! Although I did not particular enjoy Nathanael Lessore’s previous book (‘Steady for This’ – a Carnegies entry for 2024), I was impressed by how ‘King of Nothing’ addressed some very heavy themes (such as bullying, domestic abuse and toxic masculinity) in an engaging and considered manner, while still being accessible to teen-readers – having Anton question his own actions and those around him was a very good way of doing this. If I had any criticisms, my only (minor) points would be the use of the ‘third-act death’ trope (similar to another Carnegies book from this year) and a finale ‘action sequence’ that (although enjoyable and effective) seems to spring up like something out of an American ‘buddy-cops’ movie and felt a little out of place with the rest of the book. However, both of these plot elements are handled well and did not take away from my overall enjoyment of this book. Five stars ***** (Highly recommended).

Mr. Robinson
Rockwood Reads

I thought King of Nothing was a really good book. It made me think about how people deal with feeling like they don’t belong. The story is about a boy who doesn’t really fit in anywhere, and he’s trying to figure out who he is and where he belongs. He feels invisible to the people around him—like he’s the “king of nothing.” But as the story goes on, he slowly starts to stand up for himself and find his voice. One thing I really liked was how real the characters felt. The author did a great job of showing what it’s like to deal with things like loneliness, pressure, and friendships that change over time. It felt very believable and easy to relate to. Overall, I think King of Nothing is a great book for teenagers because it shows that even when you feel like no one sees you, you still matter. It reminded me that it’s okay to be different and that finding your own path is really important. I would definitely recommend it to other students my age.

Vanessa
Rainbeau Readers

‘King of Nothing’ is a surprisingly good book. While it can take a few chapters to get used to the 'roadman' speech, there isn't really anything else negative about the book. It is great fun to see the main character grow up and realise that the world wasn't the way he saw it. This, along with a good amount of jokes and realism makes it a very nice read. For a more basic rating I give, ‘King of Nothing’ an 8/10

Anonymous
St George’s Dragon Readers

I found that the cover of the book was very intriguing and full of life. The purple colour added a sense of mystery and excitement to the book, as it is an unusual colour, which really stuck out to me. In addition, the graffiti writing is original, and I think it matches the theme of the book very well. The boy in the middle of the cover is nicely drawn, and, as I discover more about this character, I find that it represents him nicely. Finally, the background style, the garage, the graffitied crown fitting perfectly onto the characters head, complements the overall theme. I would also like to add that I saw King of Nothing in a bookshop in the South of England, and the cover made it stick out from the other books available. It was at the front of the shop, and the striking contrast of colours made it attractive. I also find the title interesting, as it makes me wonder: why King of nothing? Is it related to fame? Self-esteem? Or both? I think it is a great title, and one of the factors that contributed to making me enjoy reading this book.

Lily
CFBL

I loved this book! i have just finished reading 'king of nothing' and i am very pleased of how the story ended. The book is about a teenager called Anton who is known for being feared in school with the rest of his gang, everything seems to be going normal until a certain classmate makes him realise that this role could not be as good as Anton may think...? I really enjoyed reading this book, i really liked the plots to the story and also how to book can be somewhat relatable especially in our modern era, the book does represent how secondary school can be challenging and also it mainly focuses on how a individual is represented which can have conflicting thought especially when children want to "fit in". like everyone else. My favourite character was Matthew, i really liked how the character was presented and how the way he acted was super funny. However, i did find it a struggle to care for some characters including the first few characters at the start of the book. I actually didn't quite like the gang that Anton was in because there views on certain topics made it quite a struggle to read. I was quite happy that there was a good ending and how all the characters were able to find solutions to their problems. If you are a fan of both comedy and action pact story lines then i would highly recommend this book. It keeps you interested and makes you keep guessing on what will happen next. Overall, this was a good book to read but i don't think it's my kind of book or genre that i would read again, however this book was a alright read and would recommend to anyone who enjoys this kind of story.

Emmie
Thornton Books & Banter

This wonderful book is about a ‘cool’ boy named Anton who, after being forced by his mum, goes on a very geeky trip where the biggest loser, named Matthew in class saves his life. Since then, Anton has to repay Matthew and he decides to teach him how to be cool. This book was wonderful because it is a book all students can relate to as the author wrote about all kinds of personalities and characteristics that create a certain school atmosphere. I also really enjoy how in this book it comes from (at first) a bully’s point of view; it makes us really think of how different things can affect different persons even though they hide it through violence and rudeness. Indeed, I was at first a bit surprised at how mean Anton was, but through the story, as he reflected on himself, I understood he acted like that for many different reasons. One main reason was the absolute need to be cool and that is a feeling each and every one of us has felt. I also loved the way the author created Anton’s and Matthew’s friendship through lessons on how to be ‘cool’ because it brought so much humour to the book. Finally, I loved this book because I thought it was a perfect balance between a hilarious comfort read and a read where you can learn and reflect about a lot of things of others and your surroundings. If you want to laugh you should definitely read this book!

MargotHG
4Shadowers

I liked this book as it shows that just because your parents made a bad choice it doesn't mean you have to. This novel's protagonist (Anton ) faces these struggles. It has a bit of conflict and this book was hilarious and full of love . I would defiantly re-read this as it is funny and I love Anton, and his growth through challenges at school, and home. I loved how this was portrayed in a non patronising way, yet the life lessons come thick and fast.

Isabella B
VISTA Academy

King of Nothing is an interesting story full of mystery and adventure. It follows a main character who starts out feeling confused and lost in a world that seems to make no sense. As the story unfolds, themes like power, identity, and finding meaning in life come to the surface. One thing I really liked about this book was how the author made both the world and the characters feel real. The main character’s journey to understand themselves is something a lot of readers can relate to. The story also has plenty of surprises that will keep you hooked until the end. Lessore’s writing is easy to read and keeps you interested. The pacing is good, with some exciting moments and others that let you think more deeply about what’s happening. In the end, King of Nothing is an enjoyable to read for anyone who likes a mix of mystery and personal growth. It’s not the most unique book out there, but it’s definitely fun and thought-provoking. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy stories with interesting characters, a little bit of mystery, and a focus on personal change. And the final part is that this book really makes you think. The characters go through so many tough choices, and it makes me wonder - what would I do if I was in the exact same situation? In the end, maybe this story isn’t just about the characters, but some of us too.

Ruth
Addey and Stanhope Carnegie Club 2025

I really enjoyed this book. It shows what other people are going through and you don't know about it. It was a really nice read and I thought it was great.

rafferty
Ermysted’s

King of Nothing is an outstanding novel based on crime , violence , and death. It is also very funny and shows us the dangers of toxic masculinity. It shows us his personal issues and his family life. The boy, Anton, gets into trouble at school a lot and his family decide to get him into work (working at a local community service ) .

River
Kingdown

King Of Nothing is an amazing book, I would definitely recommend! It was probably one of my favorite books I've read in a while. King Of Nothing portrays so many topics like, bullying and challenging childhood-teen experiences. There was absolutely nothing I dis-liked about this book!

Ava
Kingdown

In the beginning, I found the language in this book a little bit hard to understand but when I read the book more it was really funny. It was also really interesting how Anton and Mathews relationship developed through the book. In conclusion I really liked this book. Would recommend.

Mia
Kingdown

This is one of my favourite books I've read in a while. The storyline is very believable and it includes many deep life lessons. This books covers the topic of toxic masculinity very well and gets you to second guess your opinion of others. I loved seeing Anton grow throughout the book, but the ending was not to be expected. I could very easily connect and relate to the book as Nathanael Lessore perfectly balances humour and sadness. We could definitely do with more books like this. 100% recommend

Jasmine
Addey and Stanhope Carnegie Club 2025

When we were supposed to choose one of the books we had to read, ‘King of nothing’ did stand out. It was the only one with that unique deep purple/pink color scheme whereas some of the other books only had plain colours. And when reading the title, which, in white, contrasts with the background and draws your attention to it, I immediately wondered what the author meant by king of nothing. I assumed it was linked to the boy that was standing in the middle of the book. I personally really like the drawing style he was drawn in and his smirk intrigued me, as I wondered why he would be smiling if he was the ‘king of nothing’. Through the graffiti font the title is written in and the urban style in which the cover is drawn, it makes it clear the book is set in a city, and I felt like I could also relate to that, myself living in London. The neon crown also present above the boy’s head stands out and links back to the title. And the quote also successfully persuaded me, as I like having a good laugh while reading a book and I feel like ‘The Guardian’ can be trusted. Overall, I think that the cover is skillfully balanced, whether it be the right balance between the amount of context/links to the book it gives us while leaving some mystery; the right balance between the title and the image - the title covers the background without it meaning particularly disturbing; or the fact that it uses a pinkish purple color and ‘fun’ drawing/background without it being too childish. I’m intrigued and looking forward to knowing more about it!

Louise
CFBL

This is an entertaining read which hooks you in almost instantly and is impossible to put down. It is one of the most amazing books that I have ever read around self-growth and friendship. As well as his personal struggles, the main character faces many common and relatable situations. One of the best books I have, and think that, I will read this year. I would recomend this to anyone after a good read.

Maria
Loyal Judging Society

I loved reading King of Nothing. It portrayed so many topics, like bullying, identity, and challenging childhood-teen experiences, yet in a slightly humorous and welcoming way, which is what I really liked about the writing. I decided to do some research in order to put my thoughts and emotions into words, and I realised that Nathanael Lessalore, along with the laughs, tackles the conflict of toxic masculinity head-on. It also looks at stereotypes and problems that still exist in the world today, but through a teen, whose life is clearly being badly influenced- but begins to realise it (whether or not it is directly stated). In my opinion, one of the best ways to show this point of view, is we can see the side of him that is like most of his peers, or 'mandem' :) and his bad influence, but as he begins to open his eyes, with the help of Matthew, he begins to see more about what's going on and the risks he's taking, which is kind of why I think that the author used the perfect protagonist to tell the story from. I truly enjoyed reading this novel.

Tazmeen
Grays Shadows

This is a good book its about what its like to have no built in purpose. I would recommemed this book to people who like to be leaders and enjoy complex ideas.

Sophie
TTS Readers

I found the cover of the book “King of Nothing”, by Nathanael Lessore, very effective. It first catched my attention with its purple colour scheme that made it stand out from other books. The title, written in a large white font, contrasts with the background colour, therefore making it very clear and visually striking. The mix of realism and cartoon used to draw the boy on the front cover is also very appealing. The neon crown drawn above the boy’s head links back to the title, “King of nothing”, and made me wonder about its meaning the first time I saw it. The background of the cover is very urban: we can see the boy leaning on a wall scattered with graffiti. This told me that the story would probably happen in a city. In addition, the quote from The Guardian made me think this was a good book, as it is usually a reliable source that has a lot of importance. Overall, the cover caught my attention successfully and gave me a few clues about the story, while still intriguing me and making me want to read it.

Emma
CFBL

I think this book covered a number of very important themes in a serious but accessible way. I found it easy to read, and some parts were funny. I did find it difficult to understand some of the slang, and didn't really like the way it was written, but I think it just wasn't really my style of writing. The character development of Anton and his friendship with Mathew was very predictable, but also satisfying and emotive.

Mabel
The High Storrs Shadows

'The King of Nothing' was by Nathanael Lessore and it represented the things that may happen in the real world today. I loved the way the author developed Anton and Matthew’s relationship and there was also wide range of vocabulary. I love the plot twist because it brings in a lot of problems that could happen in real life.One of the highlights of this book was the plot twist but I shouldn't have read the blurb because it gave it away.However there are also some more problems such as his dad being released from jail.The use of modern language makes it feel more like something that would happen today.Overall I would recommend this book to anyone who likes funny but meaningful stories.I would rate this a 8\10

Millie
Beauchamp Champs 2025

The best book I've ever read. I actually cried at one point when Anton's grandmother died. Touched me deeply as well as being relatable (to in my opinion, the others at school) and funny!

Sukhmani
Lostock Carnegie Shadowers

King of nothing is about a boy called Anton who rules his secondary school. The book tells the story of how Anton realises that what he thought was important actually isn't and the true nature of his friends. I really enjoyed this book because it reflects dynamics I see within my own school and experiences, how lots of 'popular' friendship groups can develop into a hierarchy and how young people can be so easily influenced by successful people. This leads me on to my next point and my favourite character, Kehinde. Kehinde was Anton's best friend and allowed him to reach his popularity. Kehinde liked to listen to lots of podcasts promoting misogynist views and encourages young men to believe they will succeed in life just because they are a man. This is shown perfectly when Kehinde tells Anton that he doesn't need to plan for the future because he's a man and he can just get what he wants. I believe that Kehinde is such a great character because he shows how badly influential people such as Andrew Tate can brainwash young men into believing that they are better than women and in doing so, ruin their lives because of their views and behaviour. Kehinde's character taught me how dangerous influencers can be if they promote sexism or racism or any prejudices by using their own success as an example.

Jacoby
Logs

King Of Nothing is a book that speaks on gritty realities, but lacks the authenticity and originality that some other books possess. However, the relationships between the characters, specifically Anton and Matthew were nicely conveyed and were enjoyable to read. I felt like it conveyed a message and moral aimed at an audience that may or may not even consider picking up a book. Although there were good moments, I felt at times lectured about a point I was aware of.

Kaja
OP No Shelf Control

I really liked this book because of the banter and Anton’s personality. I particularly liked the realisation Anton has throughout the book about toxic masculinity and I think it spreads awareness about important issues. Definitely in my top 3 favourite EVER books. 9.5/10

scarlett
The Fitzharrys Shadows

It is really amazing story, and really shows how little things can make a big difference! I love the book. It really inspires young people to change from bullying to standing up. I think that Anton is amazing and he is so inspiring. I rate it 5/5

𝕊𝕒𝕒𝕟𝕧𝕚
Beauchamp Champs 2025

As with several of the previous Carnegie nominated books I have read, ‘King of Nothing’ was not the genre of book that I would usually choose to read. However, I did enjoy it. Firstly, I thought that the messages spread in the book (for example, awareness of the impact of misogyny) were very important. There are not very many books about this based from the male perspective which I have come across before, so this was very interesting. I found some of the characters quite likeable, including Rochelle and Anton (the protagonist)’s Grandmother. Despite this, I often felt quite annoyed at Anton, because even after realising that his group of friends were very sexist, and a bad influence, he continued to be friends with them/be influenced by them for quite a long period of the novel. I also thought that his outlook towards his friend Matthew (up until the end of the book, where they became best friends) was very callous, since he continued to consider him to be embarrassing even after realising the ‘cool’ figures in his life were in fact terrible role models. Despite this, I did like the book, particularly because of the underlying themes and messages. Overall, I would rate it 3/5 stars. It was an enjoyable yet thought provoking read, with some elements that also made the book more tragic but realistic.

Verity
Norwich High School Bookworms

This book is quite enjoyable. I enjoyed it and one of my favourite books so far out of the Carnegie books we have read.

Dylan
Axe Valley Readers

“King of Nothing” was hard to get into probably because of my age however when I continued to read it, I gained a liking to it. The characters in this book were significantly different like Anton and Matthew for example.

Sophia
Holt Readers

Book Review: King of Nothing by Nathaniel Lessore King of Nothing is a brilliant and honest book about a boy called Anton. He is one of the popular kids at school and is part of a group that often bullies others. But everything changes when he becomes friends with Matthew, the least popular boy in school. After Matthew saves his life, Anton decides to help him become “cool.” He tries to teach him how to act like the popular kids. But in the end, Anton learns an important lesson: people don’t have to change who they are to fit in. Being yourself is enough. I’ve found the book describes what really happens in school. What I admire most is how the author shows the truth about secondary school life. He doesn’t hide the pressure to fit in or the way some students act differently just to be liked. Some people even treat others disrespectfully for no reason, just to look cool or gain attention. This is something I see all the time. It’s like they put others down to feel more powerful. Reading this book made me realise how important it is to stay true to who you are. I hope all teenagers read this book and learn how group pressure works. It’s okay to be different, and it’s brave to be yourself. King of Nothing shows us that real friendship means accepting people just as they are. To conclude, I recommend this book to my friends, classmates, and to families, particularly to tell them; you don’t need to change to fit in. What matters most is staying true to who you are, to your goals, to your dreams.

Mariam
Lostock Carnegie Shadowers

King of nothing. I think that this book is emotional but happy because he has to make a choice between 1 good friend or a group of bad friends .

Imaan
Lostock Carnegie Shadowers

I would give the “King of Nothing” a positive review for its humour but also relatable content throughout. Young teens and some adults would find this an easy read and enjoy the novel. It involves overcoming challenges as a teenager. Overall, it’s a great choice of book and I would recommend it.

Lola
TTS Readers

This is a very funny, but also interesting book because it is certainly a comedy book, but it also looks at some very serious topics. The book is about a boy called Anton, and he thinks he and his gang rule the school, but then he makes friends with a boy called Matthew, and very soon, he starts to question his choices in life. And, by the end, he changes, but you’ll have to read the book to find out how! My favourite character is Nanna, Anton’s grandmother, because she is really kind, and helps and supports Anton, even when Anton doesn’t realise it, or appreciate it, and when he made it hard for her, but she kept going, because she loves Anton. Finally, my favourite moment in the book was when Anton, and his friends go to Nando’s, because it is a really happy, and sweet moment. Additionally, there are a lot of funny bits in this section, which makes it even better! I would recommend this book to anyone aged 11+, who likes stories about school, discovering who you are, and, a bit of comedy! I would rate this book a 9.5/10.

Lauren
Watford Girls

My first impressions of Anton are that he's funny, confident, a bit full of himself - but also sort of trying to hide some deeper feelings. He tells his story in a very bold and entertaining way, often using slang, jokes and exaggeration to make himself seem cool and in control. From the start, Anton wants us to see him as "the king of the school", who's feared and respected at school. However, the way in which he tells his story also shows that he cares a lot about what other people think of him. He's constantly trying to protect his image, especially when it comes to getting in trouble or being sent to Happy Campers. Although he acts tough, the way he narrates shows he's insecure and not always as confident as he pretends to be. So, while Anton tries to come across as funny and strong, his storytelling reveals hints of vulnerablility, which makes him more relatable and human. I think the author uses this to help the author see past Anton's front and start to undertand the real person underneath.

Noemie
4Shadowers

King of nothing is a book about a boy called Anton. He realises that popularity isn't everything and being kind makes you more popular than being feared of. If you want respect, you have to treat others with respect to. My favourite character was Matthew since he was the most positive character and he saw the best in everyone. I definitely think that the author made the characters feel real and all of the scenes were written very well and were very believable. I think that Matthew and Gran were the funniest characters since they were full of jokes and they made me laugh out loud. Some parts of the book made me keep turning the pages which I really look for in a book. I enjoyed how the ending answered all of my questions but the slang was particularly hard to get around. To conclude my review, I think that this book was one of my favourite books of all time and I really enjoyed it.

Daisy
BFS Umbra Readers

This book was FANTASTIC. The book is about a boy named Anton and his life as a 'popular kid'. He gradually starts to understand himself and what he wants to do, instead of trying to fit in with his 'friends'. His character development throughout the book was wonderful to read, and was really enjoyable. My favourite character was his nan, as she was very much an anchor for Anton and she seemed to be the start of his journey to become better. Everyone I know who has read this has agreed that this book is amazing, and we all really enjoyed it.

Isobel
BFS Umbra Readers

King of nothing is a great book which I personally think has a great storyline. I liked seeing Anton's character change through the story as he realises what truly makes a friend to him. I particularly liked how the story gripped you on and you never quite knew what was coming next. I would rate this book a solid 8/10

Sofia
BFS Umbra Readers

I found this book hilarious and emotional. I found it especially funny because of Matthew’s foolishness, where Anton makes a truce with him. After the truce Anton tries to teach him his first lesson. However, he barely takes any interest because he is completely into dreaming about later incidents that will happen. It starts to become emotional after Chapter 19 because Anton faces some serious issues and he is not sure how to solve them -- then the story intensifies. So, I personally would recommend this book to anyone over 10 yrs old. This is the best book I've read because I have never read a storyline where the main character starts off doing negative things but later understands that being “king” is not everything.

Darshan
The Lotus Readers

King Of Nothing is a book about Anton (who rules the school) has to go to a community project called the Happy Campers but a lonely boy saves his life. I liked this book because I never wanted to stop reading. I didn't really dislike anything but I feel like some people might not understand some things as there is a lot of slang. I would rate this book 10/10.

Mason
The Fitzharrys Shadows

This book follows a young boy named Anton. At the start of the book he is the 'king of the school'. As the story progresses he realises that his 'friends' aren't quite what they seem. This causes him to try to change how he talks to people and his view on life. I enjoyed how the book reflects modern day situations in some schools. It was enlightening to see him reflect on his current situation and make positive changes. Despite enjoying the book, I feel like it was a little predictable. I would recommend this book to children at the start of secondary school as it wasn't a particularly challenging read. I think it may be a little upsetting to primary school children because it deals with some violent and sensitive topics. Overall, I would give this book 4/5 stars.

Emilia
TTS Readers

I really enjoyed this book as it was a funny way to cover some of the topics and problems society have while still creating an amazing story of growth. I thought at the start I wasn't going to enjoy it as it was a bit of a slow start but as I learned more about the characters, I liked it more. There were the right amounts of serious and sad parts as well as funny bits and that's what I think brought the story to life.

Alexis
WinterhillReaders25

The book is hilarious and has high levels of masculinity. The book is about "the king of year 9" Anton he then later becomes friends with Mathew the unpopular kid in the school and this makes Anton question life. I enjoyed how funny and serious this book is about teenage life.

Ryan
TTS Readers

I loved Anton's character loop throughout the novel, and how he realises he doesn't need to be the 'King of the School' to be happy. It's a great portrayal of societal pressures and toxic masculinity, and how Anton overcomes them with the help of his new friend, Matthew.

Eleanor
The Tiffin Girls’ Shadows

King of nothing, quite an appealing title right? Who could even be the king of… nothing? The front cover from this book by Nathanael Lessore illustrates a teenage boy wearing a yellow shiny graffiti crown, this is quite effective to draw attention to the reader’s eye, the 2 exclamation marks also add a bit of a sign of importance to this teenager. He is leaning on the wall with a ‘cool’ posture with his arms crossed and his foot against the wall. The rhetorical question ‘But what will be his crowning glory?’ makes you want to read a book even more. Do you know The Guardian? The old British newspaper? I find it interesting that adding a review on the cover makes someone want to read it right? Maybe it’s an important source? Well, it works by adding a bit of a ‘this book is a really good book!’ kind of vibe, and I find it interesting. Finally the back cover with the shocking quote: “Dreams are for Martin Luther King. I don't need any of that. I'm king of the school already living my best life.” I think this quote is meant to make you want to read the book but I'm not sure. He also advertises his other book ‘Steady for this’ with ANOTHER review of The Guardian (I think the author likes The Guardian), I saw this book cover and the art style looks similar to ‘King of nothing’, interesting right? Well I really liked the book cover and I recommend you check it out!

Nate
CFBL

This is a lovely book despite tackling some tough modern themes - misogyny, social deprivation and a parent in prison for example. All is handled deftly by the author with lashing of humour and heartwarming plot twists throughout. It is extremely funny and still feels like a children's book which I personally think contenders for the Carnegie Medal ought to do. This year's shortlist feels heavily weighted in favour of upper teenage fiction but this one is perfect for year 8 or 9. There are themes of friendship, acceptance, bullying and getting to know yourself as you mature. It's a feel good read, great story, and of the five books I have read so far, this is my current top choice and highly recommended as a good book.

Mrs M
Blake Book Buddies

‘King of Nothing’ is about Anton, a school bully who, unexpectedly, slowly turns into a real friend to Matthew - the biggest loser in school – after Matthew saves Anton’s life. This is a story that deals with the themes of ‘bullying’ and ‘friendship’. When reading the book, I liked that the main character cares about his friends and family and how his friendships change as he starts to question his own views and actions. The book also looked at parents and how their actions affect their children (such as doing something wrong). Overall, I would recommend this book, I like how it depicts school life. ***** (five stars).

Saim
Rockwood Reads

What a rollercoaster ride. Several laughs and a few tears shed. Had me constantly staring at the wall and hoping for Anton to choose the right path. What a wholesome story and a true journey of self discovery that I’m sure many people can relate to as they grow through different relationships. All characters represent clear stages that many face themselves, with the “mandem” as a toxic friendship that we all experience but a change in the smiles and happiness that Matthew and Rochelle bring to Anton as his new found friends. Glad it all worked out in the end. I could not put this book down!

Ellena
Reader Leaders

I really liked this book because you never knew what was going to happen next and although there was some sad parts, it is my favourite book so far.

Amy s
Herts and Essex

When I picked up this book, I wasn't expecting to enjoy it. But despite this not being my style of book, I actually really enjoyed reading it. I liked watching Anton change throughout the story and I loved how real it felt. In life, things often seem to all happen at once and sometimes there are so many problems at once that you lose track of them all. This book shows that perfectly with all of Anton's problems. I like how, as the book progresses, Anton begins to forget about 'the mandem' but then right at the end they become a focal part of his life again for a few days. It would be nice to have a sequel, to see how Anton's relationships develop, with Rochelle, Matthew, Grace, his mum, his dad and teachers. Maybe it could also show how Kehinde changes.

Chloe
SCD Pageturners

I really enjoyed King of Nothing. It definitely highlights lots of the problems that we have in society, including sexism and peer-pressure, and also shows that a person can change when in the right environment and with the right people.

Jack
TBGS Readers

The main character, Anton, starts off as the self-proclaimed “King” of Year 9. Everyone believes that he’s tough due to his dad being in prison. However, as the book progresses, he starts to change. He’s not as confident as he seems. When he gets to know Matthew, a classmate considered as the “weird kid”, Anton starts to change and think for himself, instead of following his friends opinions and choices like sheep. I liked seeing how he grew as a person and as he became more honest and kinder. He learned that being popular isn’t everything. The book is set in a London school and the local area. It feels real, like a place you could actually go to. The setting helps us understand what Anton is dealing with, like school, family problems, and trying to fit in. It made the story more believable. The story has a good flow to it. It starts with Anton being the toughest person in school, but then he starts to change after he joins a club called the “Happy Campers” and spends time with Matthew, who is part of the club. There are humorous passages and serious moments as well. The plot kept me hooked because the story mixes action, feelings, and dialogue really well and all the events happened chronologically, which made it easy to follow. The chapters are short and easy to read. The mix of funny scenes and emotional passages made it feel real. The opening and ending of the book mirror each other in a way, as it starts off strong and also finishes powerfully, with Anton making an important decision about who he really is. Anton is the narrator of the book and tells the story in his own words. That made it more personal, as it felt like he was talking to me. It helped me understand his emotions and why he made certain choices. As it’s in the present tense, it feels like the events of the story are happening in the present moment, which keeps it engaging. The book made me think about how some people pretend to be tough to be accepted by others. It also shows that being yourself is more important than copying others, especially if it means doing something wrong. I’ll remember how Anton changed for the better even if it was a difficult choice to make.

Marley
4Shadowers

“King of Nothing “ by Nathanael Lessore is a book that I was unsure about enjoying when I read the back, but I can say that I did like in the end. It focuses mainly on the power of friendship and talks a little bit about GCSE options and is about the life of Anton who has a high status at his school and likes to get into mischief and mess around in his friend group. He is then forced to go to ‘Happy Campers’ and meets a boy, Matthew, who doesn’t seem like the kind of person Anton would want to be friends with. Everything changes when Matthew saves his life during a camping trip, and he slowly starts to like ‘Happy Campers’ and becomes friends with Matthew. I like how Anton realises that the way his friends treat people at school is wrong after hearing Joshua’s talk about equality. He also realises that being a good friend is better than having a reputation at school. I am happy that Anton’s mum and grandma were able to guide him to the right path and, I think that Matthew was always patient and caring and didn’t give up on being Anton’s friend. I did find that sometimes some parts of the book were slow. Overall, I found the book interesting, and I rate it 3.5/5.

Hannah
Augustine’s Carnegie Challenge

I believe that the cover accurately reflects the book’s genre as the background filled with graffiti seemingly arranged in disorder remind me of the intricate way of thinking of adolescents. The teenager is leaning on the wall behind him, which is covered in graffiti, in a “cool” way. We can also see that a crown-shaped graffiti is placed above his head, which is very symbolic as Anton considers himself as the “King” of the school, but also the “King of Nothing”. Finally, we can notice the name Anton written in a graffiti style, which is a reference to the main character, Anton. The cover evokes the intended mood as it is relaxed and a bit messy. The cover is visually striking and attention-grabbing as it uses a graffiti style font for the title and for the author’s name. It is very easy to read and the font size makes it ideal for spotting it from a shelf at the other end of the library. Its purple background also makes it attractive and is very eye-catching. The image is relevant to the book’s content as it puts forward Anton, the main character, leaning on a wall with a crown-shaped graffiti above his head, befitting for the “King” of the school. The font choice is appropriate for the genre and easy to read as it is very large and as its colour stands out from the background. The colour scheme is cohesive and effective in conveying the book's mood as it is very contrasted, as the emotions in the book are. The layout is balanced and visually appealing and it guides the reader’s eyes to the title, to the author’s name and to Anton, the main character. The cover stands out from other covers in the same genre as it is very eye-catching, which is not always the case for other books of the same genre. It effectively communicates the book's key message as it represents the book itself, which is funny and inventive.

Alexandre
CFBL

King of nothing is a book that is about the most well-known kid in a school who seems to not care about education, realising who he truly is through a long path of confusion, mystery, loss and redemption. Anton is forced to join a "dead" club called the happy campers, but when the biggest "loser" in the school saves Anton, he makes an unexpected friendship. I will give this book a 10/10 and it is my favourite book so far. I would recommend this book to ages 11 - 16.

Hisham N
Ermysted’s

This book is really interesting in the way it shows how people can change, even if they’ve made mistakes in the past. It highlights how much someone is shaped by the people around them, especially those they’re closest to. The author, Nathanael Lessore, does a great job of showing what true friendship means — especially when Anton realises that the people he thought were his ‘friends’ don’t actually support him. The writing style is gripping and full of humour, which made me laugh out loud more than once. In my opinion, this is one of the best books on the Carnegie shortlist — maybe even the best — because it’s one of the few books I’ve read recently that kept me hooked all the way through. Overall, it’s a brilliant, funny and powerful read, and another amazing book by a really talented author.

Hayden
Rainbeau Readers

King of Nothing is a unique book about a boy called Anton finding out what true friendship is like. I love this book and how unique it is. It's one my favorite books of all time!

Layla
Lost in Pages

I read king of nothing and I was not expecting to enjoy it as much as I did. I thought that it really resonated, as quite a lot of it was about the dynamics of secondary school and choosing your GCSES. It also highlight misogyny in young boys and also discrimination because of someone being different . Overall it is worth the read and I really enjoyed it.

Molly
DauntseysShadowTeam

I love the characters' personalities, they are hilarious. The book itself is very funny. The best best thing i liked about it was its humour and how the main character changed.

Seth
Ermysted’s

Rose
Flegg Heads

The book, King of Nothing, is one of the best books I have ever read. This book contains different strong emotions and hardships. My favourite part of the book is when Anton tells Matthew that he is his best friend as it made a beautiful bond between the two, unique boys. On of the most emotional moments I believe from the book is when Anton's nanna passes away. This is very emotional to Anton because he had to go through a lot after. I really enjoyed reading King of Nothing.

Prakruthi
The Bentley Woodlanders

It was a very well written book in the way it is written in first person. It shows that people can change you just need the right people to do so. I also thought the blurb did not give anything away, almost making you infer what happens next, which makes it exciting!

Florence
Carnegie Club

I could not have been happier that I chose this book. It is definently my new favourite book. I gave this book a five star rating because it has so many amazing elements to it. The storyline is about a boy the whole school fears, but after his life was saved by the biggest ‘nerd’ in school he starts to wonder if his reputation is so good after all. This book made me change my perspective on many things. It made me think about my current friendships and it taught me to know my worth. It taught me how to tell right from wrong, and that doing something wrong for the right reasons doesn't make you a bad person. It also taught me that anyone can change, and that even at the lowest point in your life it’s possible to turn it around. You are who you surround yourself with. This is also the book that got me into reading, I used to find reading boring and something that I have to do; but I know that I just have to find the right books, like this one. 10/10 read, would definitely recommend.

Priscilla
Brentwood Carnegies

I really enjoyed reading this book. It had, aspects of adventure and a plot twist 'The King of Nothing' is about Anton, who is a bully, that meets a person called Matthew who is called the school's biggest loser. Then Matthew, unexpectedly saved Anton’s life, when Anton got stung by a bee. He then uses an EpiPen to save Anton’s life. I would really encourage anyone to read this book and read more of the books that Nathanael Lessore has written.

Ronov
Brentwood Carnegies

This book is about is about Anton and his friend, they think they run the school. In reality they absolutely don’t run it, but all the other kids go by his rules when really it should be the headmaster. He actually runs the place. Matthew saves Anton’s life and it creates an unbreakable friendship, and then Anton really has a hard think about if he wants to be a bully and run the school or if he wants to to do something bigger with his life. The book is very inspiring because it teaches you a lesson that is if you put your mind to it you can do anything!

Adem
Brentwood Carnegies

'King of Nothing' by Nathanael Lessore is the book I chose for the Carnegie, I really enjoyed this book because the author writes in first person and when he does that he writes like an actual teenager, which makes it sound authentic. It seems like the book was written by a child and not a grown adult. This is a really amazing book.

Nathaniella
Brentwood Carnegies

The book is about a boy named Anton who is a bully and always getting into trouble. Later on, the biggest loser in school saves him, so they make a pact and some crazy stuf happens along the way. The themes are friendship, disapointments and and rudeness. I enjoyed the book as it is so relatable in many ways to all of us. My fave scene is at the end, as there is so much emotion and bravery. I would recormend this to anyone and everyone. 5 out of 5.

Freddy O
Sandroyd Bookivores

Eesha
Waldegrave Carnegie Book Club

I really really really enjoyed this book! I specifically enjoyed how realistic and actually quite intense it was towards the end. The characters are all written so well for example I really like how you can tell Anton is not as bad as Kehinde from the start when he kind of defended Mathew when Kehinde was about to give him a hard time. The scene where Mathew and Anton are at a sleepover and their talking about his nan made me cry! It was just so wholesome and the boys unexpected friendship is such a lovely part of the book. I will definitely suggest this book to people in the future! :D

Luluah
Waldegrave Carnegie Book Club

Things I liked about the book: - The way it shows why people misbehave and bully others, - I liked how it covers important topics, but is still entertaining and fun, Characters I liked: - Matthew, because he is a funny and kind friend, Things I disliked / ways it could be improved: - Anton's mum is a bit annoying at the beginning of the book, - Not my favourite book so far.

Ewan
Brookie Reads

'Dreams are for Martin Luther King. I don't need none of that. I'm king of the school, already living my best life.' I like this quote because it shows that he doesn't need nothing and he thinks he is living until the school nerd saves his life. This shows him that even though he has his 'mandem', he can still make friends with everyone else without being a nuisance. I think this book is five stars!

Wealthy
DHS Book Brigade

This book is really interesting and relatable. It shows the real struggles of life, and peer pressure. It describes how people can change to be a better person. It also shows an amazing example of what teenagers should be like. Personally, I think this is a 5 star book!!

Nokutenda
DHS Book Brigade

This book was so interesting it made me think about school in general, this turned Anton in to a respectful boy who started focus on his GCSES, Anton has just got an detention and his mum called and the WIFI was turned off but to get it back on he has to change his behavior so he is sent to happy campers. To find that the most nerd in school Matthew is there. The happy campers had invited Anton for a camping trip. So he is stuck with Matthew for the whole trip but Matthew help him and Anton wants to help him back so he tries to help him become cool!

Mahi
DHS Book Brigade

I think ‘King of Nothing’ is a very good book, it has a lot of plot twists which I enjoy reading . Anton's life is a rollercoaster of experiences and fights with friends or just random people. This book is very exciting because of the unexpected bond between Anton and Matthew, Matthew is a pretty nerdy character who’s obsessed with anime and Ru Paul’s drag race. I like that he’s the complete opposite of Anton but they get along so well. Overall, King of Nothing has been a blast for me to read. I found myself laughing at every page, and the use of slang was the main reason for my case of giggles. There aren't that many books that involve slang as part of the characters perspective, and this little detail is one of the main reasons why I enjoy this book, and I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys both a redemption story with a little comedy along the way.

alex
Walkden Readers 25

The writing is absolutely hilarious. I love the roadman language. I didn't really like the main character as I feel he did not become less self-absorbed during the course of the book. I loved Mathews character because I thought I thought he was absolutely hilarious.

Madura
The Nine

I chose the King of nothing as the blurb intrigued me but as I started I absolutely fell in love with it. I love how the characters talk and act and I adore how it's worded and how it made me think about everyone I ever knew, past and present. I would recommend this to anyone and everyone as it's a deep and interesting story with a happy ending.

Carolina
SCD Pageturners

King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is a funny and exciting book about Anton, a boy who thinks he’s the toughest in school. When he’s forced to join the Happy Campers, he meets Matthew, a boy he never thought he’d be friends with. At first, Anton doesn’t want to be there, but as the story goes on, he starts to change. I really liked how the book showed that people can grow and learn from others. The friendship between Anton and Matthew was my favourite part because it reminded me that real friends accept you for who you are. The book is full of humor, but it also makes you think about important things like friendship, confidence, and being yourself. King of Nothing is a great read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys a mix of fun and meaningful moments.

omar
Beauchamp Champs 2025

My least favourite character was Kehinde because he was a bully and a fake friend. Kehinde is mean to people and he is not a very good person. People think that they're friends with him and he turn on them and stabs him in the back. He beat people up and was not a very nice person to be around. I think that the moral of this story is to not be surrounded by the wrong crowd. Anton at the start of the book was friends with Kehinde and people who would make him get in trouble by making him think it was cool. Therefore, he wasn't as nice of a person, but when he stops hanging out with them and hangs out with Matthew he is a lot nicer, gets himself in trouble less, gets better grades, gets smarter, and is a better person. My favourite part of the story is when Matthew saves Anton's life. This is my favourite part because this is when Anton starts to like Matthew and respect him and it is a different part to read. This is a big turning point in Anton's life and what he wants and that is why I like it.

Matthew
Team Berko

Anton is a boy with lots of friends trying to act like roadmen at the start of the book, and I think this book is all about the coming of age for Anton where he realises that he doesn't have to be bad and naughty as a person. He can be friends with whoever he wants. My favourite part was when he realises that he does not have to be friends with Kehinde or his other mean friends. I liked this part because it showed real meaning and it felt like he was a mature person. My least favourite part was the coffee shop part. this is because we realise that Anton dad was actually not very nice at all. He was quite misogynistic towards the mother and It was quite sad to see.

Thomas
Team Berko

1. My favourite character was Matthew because when Anton joined "The Happy Campers", he used to bully Matthew, but when one day he saved Anton's life, everything changed, and Anton finally liked him. This shows that if you do a good deed to someone, then, no matter how horrible they are, they will repay the deed somehow. 2. My favourite part of the story was when Matthew saved Anton's life and, in his own way, Anton repaid his by getting him to win over his crush Fernanda. This shows that Anton's heart changed, which made the readers like him a bit more as he was portrayed as an idiot beforehand. 3. I think that the moral of the story was if you do a good deed to someone, then, no matter how horrible they are to you, or anyone else, they will repay the deed somehow.

Henry
Team Berko

This fantastic novel was great for three main reasons (although I could easily add more!) Firstly Matthew was a great character because he tried to be popular but was really, really, REALLY bad at it. An example of this is when he tried to make friends with Anton - this backfired because Anton had already made his mind up that he did not want to be friends and found Matthew very annoying, especially when they were camping together. 'Goodnight roomie,' he yawns. When I don't respond he says it again. Now it's getting awkward. Just hanging there like a fart in the silence.' In addition, the book is written in the present tense which I found engaging. 'Sebastian looks helplessly at Matthew and scuttles away like a turtle'. The author also includes text messages in speech bubbles which adds to the overall impact and has a little extra creativity compared with other books I have read recently. My final reason is around the humorous theming of the book. Teenage kids, stuck together on a camping trip with Anton trying to avoid Matthew at all costs. I felt sorry for Matthew and could empathise with him but equally could see why Anton disliked him so much. I don't think I would want to be stuck on a camping trip with him either! The moral of the story is that being humble is important and Anton eventually learnt to see that he wasn't the 'king of the school' when he needed someone else to save his life - and that person was Matthew. It is a fantastic book that I recommend to anyone 11+.

Rory
Team Berko

I think that the moral of the story was that there is a lot of toxic masculinity in the world and a lot of peer pressure to do things that you may not see as necessarily right, and its all about trying to find the right path to take even if it's unpopular. My favourite character was either Mathew or Anton. firstly I really liked Mathew as he was one of the main triggers that lead Anton to becoming a better person, and was nearly always there for him tying to lend a helping hand. secondly I liked Anton as he is the character that symbolises that people can change for the better, as he portrayed slowly through out the whole book. I particularly empathised with Anton as his dad was assumed to be an abuser and that is why he went to jail. A lots of kids take after their parents as they are their role models, and its really hard to try and distinguish what is right and wrong if you grew up with it. That's why I sympathise with Anton so much because he had to grow up with a toxic and masculine figure. People also had a big idea of who he is as a person because of his father, but as the story goes on you can see that Anton doesn't want to withhold his fathers picture for himself.

Maddison
Team Berko

My least favourite character was Kehinde. He was one of Anton's friends in the start, he gets into trouble at school and isn't a very nice person generally. I recon he only liked Anton because his dad was in jail, and so he was come across as 'tough'. He always wants to know where Anton is and what he is doing, he didn't give him space - this is one of the reason I did not like him. When Anton's nana died he didn't care, showing he didn't have empathy. This is another reason showing that he wasn't nice. Near the end Kehinde and Caleb (one of Anton's other friends) decide to vandalise a centre Anton and Matthew were working on, Kehinde tries to commit arson, however he would have died if Anton and Matthew didn't save him. This book shows how toxic masculinity can narrow down how we see the world, and that people can be influenced easily. An example of this was Anton's dad, when they met each other after he got out of jail he was trying to convince Anton that everything was his mum's fault, that women need to be 'held down' to 'know who's in charge'. Kehinde also seemed to be influenced by Anton's dad, AND social media. After reading this book I have realised how much toxic masculinity there is in the world and how fast in can spread, either through word or online. These things get into the minds of (mostly) young boys and it can impact how they see thing and how they treat others.

Rada
Team Berko

My least favourite character was Anton's dad because he was never there for Anton and was really rude, mean, and disrespectful to Anton's Mum. For example, in the scene when Aton is talking to his dad in the café, his dad is trying to blame the fact that he was in jail on his mum, who did nothing wrong. My least favourite part in the book was when Kehinde and Caleb went to destroy the women's shelter, because all of the time and work that they had put into it was being ruined. For example when Kehinde threw the paint all over the mural, it made me feel angry because he had no respect for what the shelter was for or for how long it had taken to build. The themes in this book were centred a lot around friendship, and not being friends with someone just because they are popular. This was so people could realise how bad and mean your "friends" could be, and so people can realise who people might pretend to be vs who they actually are. For example Kehinde starts off as Anton's best friend, but as the book progresses we realise that he is actually only pretending to be friends with him because he is scary as his dad is in prison. "

Eleanor
Team Berko

My favourite character in this book was the Grandma, because she was quite funny and just seemed like a nice person. For example, the way that she always kept out of the arguments that Anton had with his mum quite regularly. My least favourite part about this book was the sad part ( when grandma died), because she was my favourite character and she appeared quite a lot in the book, so when she died I felt sad for Anton and his mum. One part I particularly enjoyed about this book is when Antons mum announced that he was going to happy campers club. I liked this part because it was quite funny and I could resonate with the feeling of being told to do something you really don’t want to do. An example of how it was funny is the way that Anton rolled his eyes at his mum, and begged not to go."

Isla
Team Berko

My least favourite character in this book was Kehinde because he was a bully to the others, and he was the leader of a poisonous friendship group. My evidence for this was when he figured out that Anton was friends with Matthew and they had been repainting St Lukes together, he went and tried to destroy Anton’s mural by throwing paint all over it. This showed that he couldn’t appreciate what Matthew and Anton were doing, and he was a bully. My favourite part of this book was the end. This was because Kehinde and Caleb left the school and also Marcus had a new group of friends. My evidence for this was ‘ Marcus was now hanging out with the skater kids. He had grown his hair out and I’d nod to him when I saw him in the hallways. He was the only one who didn’t unfollow me on Snapchat.’ This showed me that Marcus generally wasn’t a bad person but I thought he had been forced into doing bad things because of the gang he was in. Finally, my favourite character was Nana. This was because she always seemed like a caring and happy person and she really seemed like she cared about Mum and Anton. An example of how she cared about them was when Mum realised that Anton’s father had been released from prison, and Nana was comforting Mum and trying to make her feel better. I felt very sad when she died because when she passed away it made such a difference to their house, it just seemed so different without her presence in it.

Zahra
Team Berko

"I liked how the plot was about someone who is popular, smokes and is kind of in a gang, ends up going to a kiddy camp and becomes friends with someone who is the exact opposite, good at school and the kind of teenager who still acts like a child and how the only reason they became friends is because Matthew saved Anton's life. My favourite character was the mum. She was such a fun character for a single mum, very chill with Anton and was pleased when he made friends with someone who was different to him. She also was smart in her own way and used a lot of tactics to get the point in Anton's head that he needs to improve so he doesn't head down the same road his father went on; which is jail. I also really liked the themes in the book, like issues, adventure and suspense, because every chapter had something about it and my favourite was when Matthew saved Anton's life, he was stung by a bee and Matthew had an EpiPen to save him which was very cool and earned Matthew a lot of respect from Anton."

Kishan
Team Berko

The writing of this book was really cool and I thought it was similar to The Final Year, as it talked in a very similar way. It made you get a better understanding of where they are from and because of this you could feel like you are knowing how they think and act. I really enjoy these different types of writing as they are not the same as every other book but they show purpose in what they do. My favourite character would have to be the Grandma of Anton because they had such a big connection with each other. The Grandma is also very relaxed about whatever Anton does with his friends. An example of this is how he and his Grandma have secrets that they don't tell anyone about, so if Anton leaves the house when he is not supposed to the Grandma will not tell the mother. But if the Grandma has way to much sugar in her tea, Anton will not tell his mother ad they made a deal with each other about it. This is a really sweet connection. My favourite part of this story is when his mother forces him to go to happy camp, this is a little camp that has a range of activities to do and it helps shape you in the future. I really liked this bit as the mother made a deal with Anton. This was that if he goes to this camp, he will get his Wi-Fi back, but if he does not go then he will not get it back and cant text his friends. But I also like this part as he meets a boy called Matthew, and if Anton did not go to happy camp and meet and make friends with Matthew then he would not be where he was today.

Zak 2
Team Berko

"King of Nothing is a funny, heart-warming book about school and reputations. My favourite character was Anton's Grandma because she always wanted the best for Anton and they kept each other's secrets. An example of this was when Anton came home late from school, his Grandma didn't tell his Mum to keep him out of trouble. My least favourite character was Kehinde because he was very cruel to Anton, Mathew, and Anton's Mum. For example, at the end of the book, Kehinde ties Mathew up, sets fire to Anton's Mum's project (a womens' refuge), and fights with Anton. My favourite part was when Anton first joined the Happy Campers because it was very funny, especially when Mathew was trying to be friends with him, but Anton didn't like him. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes comedy or action."

Emmeline
Team Berko

My favourite part of this book is when Anton is trying to get Matthew to ask out his crush, and so Anton made Matthew wear an earpiece when talking to his crush so that he could tell him what to say, but it ends up going really badly because Anton can't actually hear what she is saying back to Matthew, I enjoyed this part of the book because it was really funny. My favourite character in the book was Matthew because even though he is quite quiet in school, outside of school he is very kind, funny and theatrical. I think the style of writing was really interesting because it used a lot of language that teenagers use without making it seem to cringey. There was also a lot of text bubbles instead of just the dialogue which I thought split up the book in a really nice way.

Elizabeth
Team Berko

My favourite character was Anton (the main character) a 15 year old who has pretty much flunked school, and avoids any questions which have to do with with what he wants to do in his future. He lives with his mum and grandma, who hate his friends and is always getting told off, especially for all the dirty plates and cups in his room. This a fictional book and this has opened my eyes to books I used to read about family and friendship problems. The main moral of this story is to never judge a book by its cover. The book was laid out nicely with not super long paragraphs and chapters, with pages sometimes filled up like a WhatsApp or messages mage with texts going back and forth making it easier and simpler to read.

Charlotte
Team Berko

The "King of Nothing" by Nathaniel Lessore was nothing short of amazing. At first glance, I wasn't sure if this was going to be a book that I would enjoy but I was very wrong. I didn't expect a book about a school bully to be so full with love and personal transformation. I loved reading Anton's journey to be a better person, and how he realised he needed to set his priorities straight. He realised that everyone was trying to help him; his teachers, his mum and his nanna, and that wearing his dad's badge made him not respected but feared, and how he didn't want to hang out with Kehinde because Kehinde would rather be feared than loved and respected. I really loved the relationship dynamics between Anton and his mum, how he knew that whatever he did she would still love him and that all the things she did wasn't out of spite, but to keep him safe. At first, I couldn't keep up with all the slang but I got used to it as the book went on, and the slang in this book is what some kids these days say, so it wasn't too hard. I rate this book a 4.5 out of 5: what a touching, heart-warming book!!

Seren
Book Squad

I liked this book, mainly for the incredibly funny dialogue. I did not expect this book to be good, but I was wrong. The description on the back of the book (and on the Carnegies website) doesn't show how good this book is. I usually do not like this genre but this book is an exception. I strongly recommend it as a fun, relatively quick, book. Anton is relatable, as even if he has different hobbies or does different things from the reader, you can still see someone being like him. He also thinks and acts very organically.

Gordon
CFBL

When I read the summary of King of Nothing, I found it very interesting. After reading half of the book I understand the story much better. First, it is very entertaining, which helped me keep the momentum, secondly I really like how Anton's life is, at the same time, very complicated (with his dad being in prison, with him getting in trouble at school, and getting a lot of pressure from the principal about the GCSE) and very easy. And his life changes a lot throughout the book, with his unlikely friendship with Matthew. His role helping Matthew at school. We can say he feels teaching something to someone for the first time. After almost finishing King of Nothing, I can say safely that I really recommend it! Have a nice reading, John

John
CFBL

I really enjoyed this book, especially the growing friendship between Anton and Matthew and the way Anton realised that he really didn't want to be the way he was. The characters were very likeable and although I found the language a bit strange at the beginning (the way the "Mandem" spoke) I got used to it. I felt sad at the end because I would love to read more about the characters and see where they went after that. With every book I read the more difficult voting becomes as I pretty much want to vote for all of them!

Rachel
Floydians

The book was really good, but in some parts it was a little cringy because of the language that was used. But over all it was a really good story line with lots of different plot twists. One of my favourite parts of the book was when his maths teacher created the plan of making a scene about Anton moving places so he could do better at maths without his friends making fun of him about wanting to do better in school.

Eve
The Broxbourne Readers

King of Nothing was a very enjoyable book to read. However, it did lose some of its thrill as I moved on through the book. But it was wonderful to read how Anton's and Mathew's friendship blossomed.

Saaya
Newstead Wood Carnegie Shadowers

It was an amazing book and i like that it focused on toxic masculinity which is a very silent topic in the books ive read.

Jiya
Newstead Wood Carnegie Shadowers

I think the book was very funny and I enjoyed reading it. The character development in this book was also excellent as you can see when Anton's feelings about his friends and Matthew change throughout the book. However I personally did not like the writing style as I found it a little bit cringe.

Shonaya
Newstead Wood Carnegie Shadowers

Really fun and has an amazing plot. Love the change in Anton's behaviour

Avisha
Newstead Wood Carnegie Shadowers

i like this book and it is about masculinity and sexism and it really moves me by how anton changes from a bully to a nicer guy with good friends

Zara
Newstead Wood Carnegie Shadowers

I absolutely loved the book King of Nothing! It had so many twists and turns and I had to try to hold back my tears a one point. I also really liked the concept of the book because I think bullying is a big problem in school and I liked how it showed the POV of the bully.

anna
Trinity Book Club

This book is AMAZING! I love the relationship between Anton and Matthew and really enjoyed reading about them both and how their relationship blossomed!

Alice S
Herts and Essex

In my opinion, this book is excellent. I like how the words match the area the story is set, and what Anton thinks about the Happy Campers, and how his opinions slowly change. I think even though Matthew is quite annoying, he is a good character and he goes along with Anton quite well, even if they didn't really know each other at first. I like how they made Kehinde a very unlikable character and that led into the end of the book. The storyline is very good, and I quite like Anton's Gran as she is a good character and quite funny. I like how the story is all about change and even though the Happy Campers are annoying, they are all good people, and that's what helps Anton change.

Noah
Southmoor Storywriters

I give this book a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ When reading the book King Of Nothing it made you imagine and really picture what was going on and was very interesting. I would recommend this book to around ages 10 and above especially if you like reading about school and how people change over time. It’s because it’s about a boy who used to be naughty in school and a bully but eventually turned into a real friend and got called a ‘loser’ by his old friends. This can change peoples lives and thoughts because of the meaning and how people can change and become a better person no matter their back story. The reason, Anton (the main boy) changed was because his mum made him go to a camp when he met ‘the biggest loser in school’ Matthew and they became best friends and Anton had changed and became a way better person who didn’t make fun of people or be naughty.

Mila
TTS Readers

I enjoyed 'King of nothing' it's based on a boy called Anton. Anton is popular and cares very much about his reputation however, his friends often criticise him for him for just being him. I enjoyed the fact that Anton wasn't what could be classed as 'perfect' and that yes he did make some bad choices. Also, I think his friendship with Mathew is highly important as it demonstrates that you don't have to be popular and I think this is what made Anton realise that popularity isn't something to be thought of as 'better' but kindness is. Overall this book was highly enjoyable and I'd love to read it again!

Libby A
VISTA Academy

As I generally prefer books from other genres, when I first picked up The King of Nothing, I wasn’t expecting such a interesting story on Anton’s personal transformation, friendship, and social awareness. As the story starts to unfold, Anton is portrayed as unlikeable, rude, disrespectful - and even a bully. However, as the story progresses, small moments reveal traces of kindness, hinting that he is not entirely the person he pretends to be. His friendship with Matthew becomes a turning point. Through their bond, Anton gradually realizes the flaws in his past behaviour and begins to distance himself from the crowd he previously was friends with. His journey of self-discovery is really thought-provoking, making The King of Nothing a deeply engaging read that challenges our initial perceptions of Anton. I would rate this book about 4 stars.

Namya
Watford Girls

King of Nothing was a book I thought I wouldn't like from the offset - it seemed too slow-paced and the setting and characters seemed quite 2D. However, the further through the book the better and more developed everything became. The characters felt real, the setting an actual town, everything was as real as it could be. The ending was conclusive but not final - it still left room for people's imagination to think of what comes next. Overall, an enjoyable read that left a meaningful impact on me.

benjaminr
Ermysted’s

This book is a very good read. It is a humorous yet realistically serious and sad book. It explores the theme of toxic teenagers and the thought of being the ''coolest'' in the school is only by being mean. The book proves this wrong and changes the life of Matthew after. It inspires teenagers not to get into trouble because it doesn't really look good on you if you're mean.

Aarnav
Bookwizards

I think King of Nothing is a really amazing and interesting book. It’s about a boy called Anton who cares too much about his reputation. He thinks that being feared makes him important, but when his mum forces him to join the Happy Campers, everything changes. What I liked most about this book was how real Anton’s journey felt. He’s not a perfect person, and sometimes, he makes some really bad choices. But that's also what makes this story interesting. His friendship with Matthew was also one of my favourite parts and is also the most important one, because it showed that you don’t have to be popular to have good friends. Anton starts to realize that being kind is better than being feared. The book is also really funny. Anton’s inner thoughts are hilarious. But beyond the jokes, the book also touches on important things like how boys are taught to act tough and to hide their emotions, and I also liked the way the characters spoke because it felt so real, like they are right here talking. But the book also makes you think about important things like how boys feel pressure to act tough. Overall, I think King of Nothing is a great book because it’s funny but also meaningful. I’d recommend it to anyone who likes books that are funny but also make you reflect on what really matters – friendship, respect and the kind of person that you want to be.

Ka hei
Watford Girls

I think ‘King of Nothing’ is a very good book, it has a lot of plot twists which I enjoy reading . Anton's life is a rollercoaster of experiences and fights with friends or just random people. This book is very exciting because of the unexpected bond between Anton and Matthew, Matthew is a pretty nerdy character who’s obsessed with anime and ru Paul’s drag race. I like that he’s the complete opposite of Anton but they get along so well. King of Nothing is an amazing read and I’d definitely recommend it. The only negative I have to say is that it’s a very slow read and it can be a bit boring at times, but other than that it’s such an amazing book.

Evie
Lost in Pages

very good book and shows how sometimes your friends will criticize you for being you overall excellent read

dylan
The WH shadowers

This book is about a boy named Anton. Anton is considered to be the 'King' of the school but as the story goes on that will all change. I enjoyed this book very much as i felt i could relate to the story and the characters and how they react to things in the story. My favourite character in the book was Anton's Nan. This was because she was portrayed as a nice and humble character to Anton. I also liked how Anton used a lot of comedy and sarcasm in his dialogue. This made the book seem interesting and fun to read.

Paris-capri
BFS Umbra Readers

King of nothing is about a boy called Anton who is popular however he traded that away for real friends. I enjoyed how humorous and empathetic this book is written. Along with that, Anton meets someone special. Overall, I enjoyed reading it and I recommend it.

Sophia
BFS Umbra Readers

4/7 stars. I have a feeling that this author doesn't have a lot of interaction with kids, because this is totally not how Y9s talk... All in all, not very memorable.

Allegra
Carnegie Literary Circle

A beautiful books that covers many different subjects from (toxic) masculinity to never underestimating the power of friendship. I loved the plot, loved the characters, loved the book. What a perfect read!

maya k
Herts and Essex

A well written book with twists and turns and an unlikely friendship, implemented with great comedic effect! 10/10!

Aarav
Orpington Library Younger Teens

The King Of Nothing was a very good book but it was slightly average. This book is about how people can change even if they are bullies. This book made me kind of bad for those people who are bullies. I found this book kind of emotional and it makes it even better that it is written in first person. This book was about how a YR 9 student tries to keep his reputation while he makes friends who his 'gang' wouldn't like and he tries to hide it. The bad thing about this book is that I didn't get most of the slang so I just guessed what most of the words meant. This book definitely said 'fam' too much. It had a normal ending and there were not many plot twists. Overall a 7/10

Emily
Carnegievores

I loved this book! Everything about it was appealing to me, I really enjoyed reading this! The journey that Anton goes through, with his friendships, his family, his school life, is all so funny, relatable and made me smile. I love the characters in this book like Matthew, who is so nice as a person! This book is so good as it shows that you should do what you want, not follow the crowd and be friends with who you want to be, popular or not and sometimes, maybe listen to your mom, because going to a club that seems boring to start off with, could actually change your life for the better! On the whole, I would definitely recommend this book!

Amelia
Lost in Pages

King of Nothing has been a blast for me to read. I had found myself laughing at every page, and the use of slang was the main reason for my case of giggles. There aren't that many books that involve slang as part of the characters perspective, and this little detail is one of the main reasons why I enjoy this book, and I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys both a redemption story with a little comedy along the way.

Alex
TPS Carnegie Collective

The King of Nothing is a book which tells the story of a boy who makes the slow journey to the right choice. Anton and his “gang” rule the school, no one can get past them. But when Anton’s mum forces him to go on a camping trip with the happy campers, things start to change. Matthew, who is the most unpopular boy in Anton's class, turns his life around and that’s when Anton finally makes a turn for the good. I like this book as it was fun but also shows how even a bully can be a nice guy on the inside, and how this can happen. A good end to the story and Anton is finally where he wants to be, in the best situation with actual friends.

Becca
Larkmead

Funny, suspenseful, emotional and so much more. The story is meaningful and interesting, seeming to come from a teenage boy's mind. The events and characters each make you feel a different emotion. A great book, my only issue is that it keeps dissing the members of one direction. I'd give it a solid 8.5/10.

Alice
Sale High Readers

I enjoyed King Of Nothing by Nathael Lessore as it is a humorous book but also meaningful as it represents many people in contemporary life. The way that Antony portrays himself in and out of school shows how some people aren't what they seem. The topics the book explored were interesting, addressing topics like friendship, bullying, harassment and much more. I would recommend this book to other teenagers who would most likely enjoy these type of books.

Maxime
4Shadowers

King of Nothing is an amazing book which kept me engaged the whole way through. It combines humour and deeper themes to make the story witty yet poignant, and immensely thought-provoking. It's the best book I've read in a long time.

Ruqayya
KECHG Shadowers

This story will stick with me forever. King of Nothing is a heart-warming and powerful story that mixes serious topics like grief, gang pressure, and toxic masculinity with humour and real emotion. Anton, the main character, feels like he has to act tough because his dad’s in prison, and he’s trying to keep up his image with his crew — Marcus, Caleb, and Kehinde. But everything changes when he meets Matthew, the so-called “loser” at a support group. Their unexpected friendship helps Anton see that being feared isn’t the same as being respected. I really enjoyed watching Anton question the choices he’s made and start to become his true self. This book teaches important lessons about friendship, identity, and how being kind takes more strength than acting hard. I think every teenager should read it — especially boys trying to figure out who they really want to be.

Umar
FGCS Carnegies 2025

An excellent book containing good characters, a very good plot and some very valuable life lessons e.g company matters, school matters and how you should never bully someone. In my opinion this book was a 10/10 however so if there was anything I would change about it, I would want Mathew to explain his sad home life and how lonely it can be and not make the ending so rushed and see more os the dad. After Nana passed away he realised and the story had a crazy twist so I would say its one of the better books.

Prabhnoor
NA Book Club

This was a really good and easy read, however, it was very predictable. Personally, this didn't take away from my overall experience reading it. I was a bit unsure about it to start with but once I got into it I did enjoy it. I thought that the characters were well thought out and that the storyline fit with them. I would recommend this.

Amelie
DauntseysShadowTeam

King of Nothing is an alright book in my opinion. The start of the book is really good - there's suspense and emotional challenges HOWEVER (the caps are key to this so please don't remove them ) the rest of the book is a bit of a drag the things I was looking forward to (his close death) was under whelming the only good thing about this section is that I felt emotion when Nana died but after her death it felt spread out and stretched to make up for the start's shortness. Also his Dad, possibly the third most important characters (after Anton and Mathew of course) was barely mentioned his meeting with Anton and things around it deserves at least a whole chapter instead just a page. In conclusion I believe King of Nothing is a good idea however needs more work to it.

hugo lan
Bookwizards

A heart-warming and powerful story that delivers a lot of important lessons combining serious topics of misogyny, grief, gang violence, and domestic violence with humour. With his father in prison, the protagonist Anton feels the pressure of keeping up his tough guy reputation, ruling through intimidation, along with his mandem: Marcus, Caleb and Kehinde. I enjoyed the development of Anton’s journey throughout the story as he starts to reassess his life and the choices he makes after being introduced to Matthew the ‘loser’ at the Happy Campers meetings. In this unlikely friendship Matthew influences Anton in ways that he did not expect and it was an uplifting moment when Anton finally realised that he was not respected but feared instead. An important must-read exploring the emotions and conflicts of being a teenage boy and how toxic masculinity can damage relationships.

Mrs Mann
Brooke Weston Book Busters

I really liked this book to as this is about someone who wants to leave their glory for friendship and this is the the best books from writing I have read so far. It is really nice to give up something for friendship.

Kinjal
Forest Reading Rebels

I really enjoyed the humour in this book. It was written with sensitivity and empathy for the characters and their differences. I found myself willing Anton to make the right choices but understanding why that was so difficult given his circumstances. A quick and enjoyable read.

Sandy
Readerraptors

I quite appreciated the book from Nathanael Lessore for several reasons. Firstly, I enjoyed the setting as it really played a role in making the book engaging as it is very close to how many people live. Moreover, the fact that Anton is the narrator and not someone out of the story makes the main character closer to us. This makes the reader want ot learn more about this character and how he will change. On the other hand, it would be a good idea to learn more about Anton's dad at the start of the book. Overall, I found this book great.

Raphael CI
4Shadowers

The main character, Anton, starts off as the self-proclaimed “King” of Year 9. Everyone believes that he’s tough due to his dad being in prison. However, as the book progresses, he starts to change. He’s not as confident as he seems. When he gets to know Matthew, a classmate considered as the “weird kid”, Anton starts to change and think for himself, instead of following his friends opinions and choices like sheep. I liked seeing how he grew as a person and as he became more honest and kinder. He learned that being popular isn’t everything. The book is set in a London school and the local area. It feels real, like a place you could actually go to. The setting helps us understand what Anton is dealing with, like school, family problems, and trying to fit in. It made the story more believable. The story has a good flow to it. It starts with Anton being the toughest person in school, but then he starts to change after, in an agreement with his mother to get ungrounded, he joins a club called the “Happy Campers” and spends time with Matthew, who is part of the club. There are humorous passages and serious moments as well. The plot kept me hooked because the story mixes action, feelings, and dialogue really well and all the events happened chronologically, which made it easy to follow. The chapters are short and easy to read. The mix of funny scenes and emotional passages made it feel real. The opening and ending of the book mirror each other in a way, as it starts off strong and also finishes powerfully, with Anton making an important decision about who he really is. Anton is the narrator of the book and tells the story in his own words. That made it more personal, as it felt like he was talking to me. It helped me understand his emotions and why he made certain choices. As it’s in the present tense, it feels like the events of the story are happening in the present moment, which keeps it engaging. The book made me think about how some people pretend to be tough to be accepted by others. It also shows that being yourself is more important than copying others, especially if it means doing something wrong. I’ll remember how Anton changed for the better even if it was a difficult choice to make.

Marley
4Shadowers

All I can say is wow ! This book was amazing and lived up to what I expected, especially from the author of 'Steady For This' which was also a thrilling book. I could try my best, but I would not find many faults in the plot. To me it was so moving, this storyline was able to make me angry, happy, amused, annoyed and sad all in one chapter. The plot of the King of Nothing follows the main character Anton, whose dad was sent to prison after getting in a fist fight. For as long as he remembered his friends from the “Mandem” have been with him through his highs and lows, as long as he’s with his friends, Caleb, Marcus and Kehinde he will never be made fun of again. He thinks that he will always be the 'king' of the school, but after getting in trouble with his mum and being forced into a “moist” camping trip, then getting saved by one of the losers on the receiving end of his friends insults, he begins to doubt everything Kehinde says. This story explores many different realities, like women’s rights and masculinity and despite being very delicate topics the book handles them almost perfectly. I know for a fact that this book will be one of my top reads for a while.

Ethan
Brentwood Carnegies

This was my favourite book of the whole Carnegie shortlist because of its real life setting, I loved the way the author subtly developed Anton and Matthew’s relationship. The plot was incredible and the wide range of vocabulary really made us feel the emotions of the characters, for example you can really feel his distaste at the idea of going to the happy campers, but by the end you can really sense how much he is enjoying it, especially The St. John’s project. I love the plot because it brings in a lot of problems that could happen in real life. However there are also some more exotic problems such as his dad being released from jail. The thing that speaks to me the most, (literally) is the language, the use of more modern language allows us to really get into it. The thing that gives it character is the moment when (SPOILER ALERT) his Nan dies. It was a tragedy, I feel that it did not need to happen, however I feel it really makes this book just that little bit more interesting. I have also read 'Steady For This' and feel that although that one was good, this one is superior. I think that this is one the best books I have ever read.

Jack
Brentwood Carnegies

This was a good read - engaging, moving, sometimes funny, with some great characters. The pace of the book was good. Anton's journey from bully to friend is an interesting one, and the relationships in the book are very realistic and credible. Parts of it were very funny, and I enjoyed reading it.

Ros
Balla Bookworms

It's good I liked the change at the end and it had a good ending. Overall good book

Jacob
Herne Bay High School Carnegie

I was not the biggest fan of this book and I'm not sure why, I'm not sure if it was the plot or the way it was written but I felt as if this book was dragging and I wasnt really enjoying it but I read it anyways and I felt it got a bit more interesting near the end and was just difficult the start to get into.

Emily
St Kaths

At first this book seemed so factually incorrect and rude in the ideas towards women that I didn’t want to read any further but then I realised it isn’t about what society is like it is about what it should be like and how Anton changes during the book and becomes a much better and kinder person. By the end I loved this book it was shocking at the start but it turned into a very heartwarming read. There are many people who need to read this book.

Holly
Horsham BOok HUNTers

This is a nice book about a boy named Anton, whose dad is in prison. At school, everyone sees him as the "king" because of this. But when he meets a really smart boy, his life starts to change. The story shows how important friendship and believing in yourself are. It also talks about how easy it is to get the wrong idea about someone, and how much family love matters. Mostly, it's about the tough journey of finding a good friend and figuring out who you really are.

Miroslava
Beauchamp Champs 2025

When I first encountered this book as a part of the Carnegies, I was slightly intimidated by all the warnings of content including ‘crime and violence, misogyny, and toxic masculinity’, however I was amazed by how well these big issues were portrayed in a relatively light, suitable, yet non-patronising manner. The plot of this book is brilliantly paced, interesting and surprising, keeping me hooked throughout. Although the characters’ interactions weren’t necessarily the most believable, they were funny and heartwarming, and I was completely invested in their relationships. Lessore has a brilliant way of evoking readers’ emotions through simple moments making characters seem relatable. This book has definitely earned its spot on the shortlist!

Rosie
Rainbeau Readers

I loved the book a TON. it wasn't only addictive but it was also the best. I loved everything in it, how Anton changes his ways and how his life goes through a whole entire roller coaster. This shows me that anyone can change. This book was hilarious, some times I laughed too hard and hurt my ribs (it was the best). I loved everything in it and felt sad when he suffered a loss. This was an amazing book.

Salma
Bellerive Bookies and Cookies

It is very informative and funny, but also quite sad.

Jaime
RGS Junior Book Club

Nathanael, you have done it again. It is funny that I started with" Steady For This" last year and started with another one of your books this year as well! The "King of Nothing" is like the first one, in my opinion, - it's brilliant. This book was sadder and more serious than "Steady For This". Anton's Nana dying, nearly made me cry, it just was so realistic. And Anton's Dad is a good example of a horrible Dad, I hated him so much. Matt was also hilarious and reminds me of Rowley from Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Anton was hilarious as well, his character really progressed from the beginning to the end of the book. My one complaint is that I think Kehinde should 100% have been arrested for Attempted Arson and Property Damage. Just a minor issue though. Good job, Nate, Good Job.

Thomas
Rebel Readers

I thought that this book was very impactful and heartwarming, and I loved that it was a good lesson about unlikely friendships and how the people you think you would never talk to may one day be your best friends.

Ema
Nene Park Academy

I found this book interesting as it shows the conflicting feelings of Anton (the main character) as a teenage boy in a very toxic masculine society we live in now, while making me laugh and snicker at the jokes he makes throughout the book. At a point in the story, Anton has to make difficult decisions about the people he hangs out with. It made me realise that good friends are always better than popular friends and good friends will always have your back. It enlightened me that boys can be and are pressured into doing things they don't want to do to prove they are ‘a man’. It was a really good book and I enjoyed it very much. I recommend this book to people who like to read books by Patrice Lawrence and Malorie Blackman because all the authors handle difficult topics that I find deep, raw and soulful.

Sofia Blake
The Broxbourne Readers

King of Nothing is a book about Anton,a bully, who unexpectedly slowly turns into a real friend of the school's biggest “loser”, Matthew. It all started when Matthew saved his life. The themes are mainly adventure, bullying and friendship. I loves this story because it contains a lot of unexpected parts and a lot of emotion, from grandma’s death to falling in love. My favourite part is when the main character finally becomes himself, from who he think he is to who he really is. I would recommend it because, it has many things you could have to face in your own life.

Henry
Sandroyd Bookivores

This has a very good storyline and the plot was very thrilling .The start of the book was a bit hard to get into but once you get through the first 5 chapters it was very engaging and Anton and his gang of friends were very funny and humorous. Would recommend: a very good read.

Abigail
Woodruffians

'King of Nothing' is an amazing story,its title is such a well thought out title as we learn why it is King of Nothing. We go through a rollercoaster of Anton questioning his ideals again and again, trying to uphold his title of the King of School but as the book progresses his eyes are opened to realise by his real friends and family that reputation isn't everything. His first real friend who he thinks is a loser at the start but starts correcting himself that he isn't a loser he's just a loner. After Matthew saves him from the grasps of death ,he starts hanging with Matthew more and more and realises what a true friend is and he is able to escape the painful grasps of his former friends and their sexist un-developed ways. As he starts progressing towards his GCSEs he realises that having a reputation at school is nothing,being the king of school means nothing in his future life.The impact on this book of young people would be immense since it explores the concepts of friendships and reputation, making young people realise and see that your school reputation means nothing in the long run,it will not help you with getting a job or your GCSEs and you should focus on your future and your relationships with friends and family.

Gabriel
King James Reading Royalty

I love this book. I would most definitely recommend this to Year 7. I love how it was chill at the start of the story, then there was a plot twist when the youngest son got sent in to the hospital. The teachers were so supportive of the oldest son when the youngest boy ended up in hospital they were so kind to him. I would recommend 'The Final Year' to people who love plot twist books and poems it both of them together plus if you struggle to read small type like I struggle with it, you will find this a quick and easy read. thank you for the opportunity I was a memories from primary school thank you

Hazel
Woodruffians

King of Nothing is a book of friendship, risks, and decisions, I loved how Anton (the king of the school) and Matthew (schoolboy nerd) became friends and helped each other out. Anton is in a gang and when his dad is released from prison, he must make a decision on whether he stays in the gang and be at risk of danger or to leave and go see his Dad. I felt that this book spread a strong message about the importance of staying safe and being aware of what could happen if you take risks in the outside world.

Lily
Larkmead

(spoiler alert!!) King of nothing was quite the book, it explored the sights of how people can change after looking back at themselves. The book starts off with a boy called Anton, a boy who "rules the school" with his friend group. After getting detention once again, Anton was sent to a summer camp, and it happens to have the school nerd, Matthew. Matthew sticks to Anton like duck tape, and eventually saves his life from a bee sting. Their friendship builds throughout the book, and it changes Anton. One thing I don't like about King of Nothing, is the overuse of slang. At the start of the book they use the word "bruv" and "fam" a little too often which makes it sound a little unrealistic. But apart from that, I enjoyed this book, it had it's funny scenes, and I could understand what it feels like to change and what someone has to leave behind to do so.

Danny
Ardingly Carnegie Book Group

This is a very nice book to read with a good storyline. it gets better as it goes on the characters are good and it has a good message

Henry s
Ermysted’s

This book is about a boy called Anton, and how he realises that being part of the gang that rules his school actually is meaningless to his future. I really like how supportive his teachers are, such as Mr Benjamin who sees potential in Anton and convinces him that he'll move him somewhere where he can focus on learning without his distractive "friends". They even had to argue about it to make it seem realistic! Mr Wall, the headteacher, also helped Anton to decide on his GCSE choices. In the plot, Anton was forced to take part in a camping trip with the Happy campers by his mum, where Matthew saves him from an allergic reaction. This is when they become friends and Anton helps Matthew get with his crush. Through the process (also from a workshop in the Happy campers) , Anton realised that the program he and his gang listen to talks about how men should act like a stereotypical masculinity and that it degrades women. He realises that he just needs to be himself and he finally stood up to Kehinde (the leader) when they started to vandalise St Luke's and where Matthew was getting beaten up. There was lots of emotional parts, like when Anton's Nanna died. I would definitely recommend this book to others, 10/10.

Mila
Beauchamp Champs 2025

I liked how funny this book is and the slang accent. I would recommend it to my friends as I am sure they would like it. Anton's grandma is my favourite character because she is quite funny and cheeky

Ayomide
The SBSJs

This book has high humour levels and a good story with a character with a developing personality. My favourite character was the nerd, Matthew, and how he helped Anton to change his life and understand himself. My favourite part was when Anton and his grandmother were on the bus to the hospital and Anton's grandmother blames him for her bottom burps and lectures him about his 'cheeky butt' This is a good laugh out loud story and the perfect adventure to share with your friends

Elijah
The SBSJs

My favourite thing about this book is how Anton was really tough when he first started helping his mum, but then took down his bold cover with the help of Matthew. I liked the character of Matthew the best because he persevered to make Anton a better person and become one of his friends. He's determined, though I agree with Anton - Matthew is a bit of a wimp and tends to stick too much with Anton. My favourite part of the book was where Anton stood up to his 'friends'. It was a scary moment until.... I would recommend this book to my friends because I know that they enjoy books about friendship

Soliana
The SBSJs

The best thing about this book is that I can relate to some of the action and there's a clear definition of high school life I really like the main character Anton because his personality changed in the middle of the book. At the start he is the 'popular cool guy' but near the end he becomes less popular but more open. He develops a friendship with the school nerd... I would recommend it to my friends as it is a fun read with many hilarious moments

Rahel
The SBSJs

I liked the story in this book, and how the lesson is revealed My favourite character is Matthew because he is funny and doesn't care about other people's opinions of him. He is kind, even to those who push him away, like Anton. He even saved Anton's life. Matthew helps Anton to realise that lots of things he believed are wrong I would recommend it to my friends because it is funny and thought provoking

Martha
The SBSJs

Nathanael Lessore’s ‘Steady for This’ was my pick to win the Carnegie Prize last year, and I’m happy to say that ‘King of Nothing’, Lessore’s nominated title this year, is even better. I loved it, and hope that it wins this time. It’s about lots of things, but overall it’s about the power of friendship, and what true friendship really means. The story builds to a tremendously heart-warming conclusion, and I’ll admit I was a little emotionally choked up at the end! As far as Anton is concerned, he’s found his role in life. He knows how he wants to behave, how he wants to interact with people and most importantly, how he wants to be seen by others. This means hanging out with his mandem: Marcus, Caleb and their self-styled leader Kehinde, entertaining themselves in class by making their teachers’ lives difficult, picking on classmates who appear weaker, and generally living up to a dominant, alpha-male ideal that Kehinde has learnt from the podcasts he listens to. Anton thinks he and his mates are respected by others. In fact, as he eventually begins to work out, they’re not ‘respected’ at all, they are just feared and/or avoided. After Anton takes his misbehaviour too far in a science lesson, his mum (a real hero of this book), applies the most devastating of punishments: no Wi-Fi. Anton is left with an almost redundant phone and cut adrift from his online fam. He’s also forced to attend meetings of the Happy Campers, an evening club where young people meet and get involved in social activities, but with a social and environmental conscience. I think it’s based on the real-life Woodcraft Folk movement, which is a bit like Scouts. At his first meeting, he finds himself with Matthew, a kid from his class, but definitely not part of his fam. Kehinde calls Matthew a loser, so for Anton to make friends with him would feel like social suicide. The character of Matthew is a bit like Growls, the narrator of ‘Steady for This’ i.e. completely charming and hilarious. He’ll wear his little sister’s flowery socks just because he thinks they look good with his outfit; on their camping trip, he blows his whistle at high volume to warn Anton of a patch of nettles several metres away; when Anton tries to insult him by calling him ‘moist’, Matthew takes it as a compliment: “Some of my favourite things are moist. Lemon drizzle, the nose of a puppy, the condensation on a fresh carton of chilled Ribena.” Matthew is also unfailingly kind and, most significantly, completely unselfconscious – in contrast to Anton, who is mainly concerned with how he’s viewed by others. It’s an ‘odd couple’ comedy, and as the two spend more time together, Anton decides to try to teach Matthew how to be ‘cool’. But it’s an impossible task, and in fact, through spending time with Matthew, listening to him and seeing how he behaves, Anton is the one who learns, who changes, and, ironically, becomes strong enough to reject the lifestyle he’s been obsessed with living. ‘King of Nothing’ has a lot of important lessons that are powerfully delivered; it’s also thoroughly entertaining. Surely Nathanael Lessore is going to take home the Carnegie Prize this year...? *****

Mr Hodgson
Ermysted’s

It was a good read, the story was good but the 'slang' was sometimes difficult to read 7.5/10

Elizabeth
Sir Roger Manwood’s School Book Club

Although a boring piece of reading at the beginning of the book, the book quickly builds storyline and emotional connection to the influences and impacts to his life, through how toxic masculinity impacts millions of boys and men globally.

Kaleb
Readerraptors

this book was very good. I felt it shows how people can follow their own path and not follow in somebody else's footsteps. It was really enjoyable and I liked it a lot.

Rafferty
Ermysted’s

I enjoyed the book and felt like I could have been there. it wasn't like most books in a far fetched world but one we can all relate to and feel for the characters. My favourite part is the realisation after Matthew saved Anton that kindness is free.

Henry
Ermysted’s

This book is about a year nine boy who doesn't care about school or his future until his mum cracks down and aims to turn his life around. The happy campers want to help him become a better version of himself although he is very resistant. he slowly becomes friends with the class nerd and that friendship changes his life. there are many important themes in this book and helps people think about the value of their life a long with dealing with rocky relationships with family and friends as well as grief. I enjoyed this book more than other works this author has produced however it was still not my favourite, I just didn't feel like it impacted how I live and I think the people it would positively impact might not pick up the book. I'd say this is good from anyone in secondary school.

Chloe
Bramcote College Library

chukwufumnanya
The SBSJs

it is a really good book a bit difficult to understand at first owever i don't think that the boys age really went with the actions in the book as I don't think a 13 year old boy would be going on a double date. So I think you should of made him in year 10 or 11 but other than that I think kt was great. I gave it a 8/10

Katherine Jurd
Herts and Essex

I loved "King of Nothing" because it tells a story as if a teenager was writing it. He uses the word "mandem" and "moist" to describe his friends and moist to describe someone is " not tough". This makes me , the reader, feel that he is talking to me personally with his own words as a British teenager. I also adored the ironic plot of him being " the toughest person in the class" to him being best friends with supposedly the class nerd. This plot made me realise what peer-pressure could do to a person with Kehinde, Marcus and Caleb forced Anton to be his friend otherwise Mathew would get hurt in the last few chapters. However, I did not like that Kehinde thought that he was the best with woman due to the podcasts he watched about them. He took it so far that he refereed to woman as females, making woman feel as if they were only objects also making me feel creeped out of Kehinde as he bullied a girl when she did not like Kehinde. I also loved the support Antony's Mum gave who was the person who started this friendship along by sending Antony away to the Happy Campers and find Mathew there. His mum also protected Antony from Kehinde many times. It seemed to me that the Mum already knew what was going to happen with her being so reliable. In conclusion, the book was very thrilling but also unpredictable when Antony started to be friends with Matthew, this made Antony gain more friends like Roshelle. I would definitely want more of these types of books making me feel I am involved in the book .

Harvey
Bookwizards

'King of Nothing' defies a lot of literary limitation and stereotype when it comes to modern books about youths that deteriorate from paths that are deemed as 'glorifying' or youths that have 'lost their way'. A lot of books like this that use slang tend to overuse it or completely miss the point of trying to build character development. However, 'King of Nothing' has done neither of this. The slang used in this novel is minimal and used in a subtle way. The terminology is quite easy to understand/infer and isn't too heavy on the reader. There is a lot of character development with pretty much all the characters and you are really able to see them progress. However, with that being said, Kehinde and Caleb didn't really develop. I feel that the reader missed windows of opportunities where the two characters could have developed to have more 3D, complex feelings/emotions instead of basic emotions. I think the author could have let the 2 characters show some complexities of emotions in their friendship if nothing else. Matthew and Anton however, their friendship development is really amazing to read. The book is quite sensory and depicts a picture so as the book progresses, you feel as though you are truly part of the story and their relationships. This was a great read- I would read it again. However, I wouldn't rush to reread it. It's a great book to have and reread every once in a while but it is not a book that is always on your mind to reread. I rate this an 8/10

Temi
Ousedale Olney

King of nothing did help increase my sympathy towards 'roadmen' . It helps show a very different side to them that I've never thought of. Anton's experience was thought provoking and a hundred percent made me cry. I definitely recommend this book so that people can see into that life and see a different perspective.

Safiyah
Bramcote College Library

King of Nothing is an amazing social realism novel about a boy named Anton. He is initially the "king" of his school, as everyone is scared of him and respects his gang of friends because of his dad, who was in prison. After getting in trouble, his mum sends him on a camping trip, where he meets and becomes friendly with the biggest loser in the school: Matthew. Unexpectedly, as Matthew saves Anton's life during the journey, Anton decides to help Matthew become "cool". I adored this book because it showed how appearances can be deceiving, and that we shouldn't judge or mock people when we don't know their personal lives and what they're going through. I also liked that Matthew was clueless and sometimes didn't understand the language Anton was using, which made the story very comic and laughable. Finally, I enjoyed the little inspirational talks during the campers' sessions that made Anton change his personality and want to work harder towards his goals, as it showed that whenever we are determined to change for the better, we tend to succeed and stay satisfied with ourselves, as life is not about showing others that we have a good reputation, but to be happy with yourself and make friends that are worth having.

SrishtiHG
4Shadowers

I really enjoyed King of Nothing. As someone who takes my time to read, I found this book very easy to get into and probably the fastest I've read a book. It's extremely funny and well written. I like how it's in Anton's perspective because it makes it more relatable. I think this book it light-hearted and thoughtful. There are plenty of plot twist type of moments in this book that makes it a really gripping read. I think this book is a great read for anyone who wants to get into reading.

Amy
LPGS Readers

I really enjoyed reading this book. At the start it was a bit slow to get going but then I couldn't stop turning the pages. My favourite character was Rochelle because she always looked out for Mathew . Overall this book was exciting, funny, heartwarming and a blast to read!

Susannah
Plumites

This book took a hold on me and didn’t let go till I finished it. After getting forced to join the ‘Happy Campers’ by his mother, Anton, a troubled teen in major need of character development gets his life saved by Matthew, a boy he used to consider a nobody. He realises at this camp just how wrong his sexist, bullying friends were and how fear isn’t the same thing as respect. He then finally learns the hard way who his real friends are and how to respect others around him. I loved the way Anton evolved from a bullying gangster to a loved friend. This made me believe that anyone can change if they really want to. I found King of Nothing to be an entertaining and inspirational book for young people, especially those who have yet to learn how to treat the people around them with respect.

Aarna CI
4Shadowers

The King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is a novel written from the perspective of Anton, a boy in year 9 who, at the start of the book, is allegedly the 'king of the school' he goes to in South London. He and his friends are feared and respected by all (partially due to his dad's criminal past); however, due to his lack of effort in school and sketchy friend group, his mum (in an attempt to make some changes to his attitude) decides to enrol him in a group called the Happy Campers, where he is forced to spend time with an odd boy called Matthew. When I first began this book, I wasn't very sure about it, seeing as I wasn't sure how the story was going to progress; however, as I persisted and saw Anton and Matthews' friendship grow and Anton's views changing, making him start to question all he thought, I started to enjoy it more. It was also quite nice to relate to the main character a bit (seeing as I am also in school), although nothing about his starting situation in the book was anything like familiar to me, which was partly the reason for my scepticism. In the end, however, though there were a couple of rocky times for Anton, the story ended neatly and satisfactorily. In addition, the writing, I thought, portrays very accurately the thought process of a teenage boy (making it easy to follow) and explores, very well, the themes of toxic masculinity, friendship and identity, which made for a very interesting and captivating read. I would recommend this novel to anyone in secondary school who has the patience to allow the story to work its magic.

Beatrice
Europa Champs

This book is one of the better ones I've read it is funny and serious at the same time, I love how Anton is complaining about camping when it is one of my favorite things to do, I love how him and Mathew have such a funny wholesome relationship and how Anton seems to hate mathew most of the way through the book, Antons dad also sounds very similar to Kehinde with his mentality against women. It is an all round good book.

Kaitlyn
UCC Avid Readers

It was very inspiring - the diverse characters really had an emotional impact and I was able to really feel the story unfold. It was incredibly meaningful and inspiring because it portrays a beautiful transformation in character.

John
Tallis Reads

'King of Nothing' really stood out when the plot was engaging and the character were developed, making the whole reading experience feel much more interesting. It was bit difficult to understand certain vocabulary but was overall an engaging book.

Horatiu
Isleworth & Syon

King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is an incredibly important read for teens (as well as adults trying to understand their children and students) living in the 21st century. Teens can often underestimate their abilities, hiding behind the guise of a 'badman' (as this book would put it) to impress their friends. Once I'd got past some of the not-so-sophisticated language, I really fell in love with the rich characters and amazing story being told in the pages of this book. A must-read for pretty much everyone.

Roo
Isleworth & Syon

I absolutely loved this book. I felt the characters were relatable and I liked the little drops of humour in the story, at first I wasn’t a fan of the character Anton however his journey of becoming friends with Matthew and changing his mind about ruling the school was amazing to read about and I have certainly gained a new perspective on the people around me. The ending is amazing it’s such a page turner. In my opinion it’s essential that you read this book.

Phoebe C
Herts and Essex

Finished it a while ago but forgot to write a review. This is my favourite so far and I love the ending. I love how it’s mainly focused on Anton and Matthew”s friendship and Anton’s relationship with the “gang” but still has other elements and relationships, such as his relationship with his mum and Nanna, and Rochelle. I loved the scene where they’re getting ready for their double date, that part was really awkward and funny, not to mention the date itself. However, almost nothing beats the part near the end in the shelter with the mural. I also love the line “I’m stopping a boy getting his head dunked in a bucket of paint.” “How?” “Self control.” Overall, a great book

Pip
Herts and Essex

A very good story. Very mysterious at the start, very heart warming and funny, then quite sad and at the end it is very heart warming again. I would love to know more about Kehinde and why he seems to hate girls.

Lara
Balla Bookworms

King of Nothing is a teen comedy written by Nathanael Lessore. It’s a heartwarming and humorous story about Anton, a Year 9 student who starts questioning his priorities after an unlikely friendship with Matthew, a quirky classmate who saves his life.

Daniel
Thornton Books & Banter

Very funny book but also very sad. Loved what it had to say about making your own way in the world.

olivia
MSJ Shadowers

It was a really good book because I really liked the wording and the jokes was nerve-wracking. It was a roller coaster of emotions. It was definitely one of my favourite books ever.

Rohan
The John Mason Shadowers

King of nothing is a very exciting and sad book about love loss and the struggle of being in Y9, growing up with one parent and the dangers of the mandem/gangster. The book follows Anton, who is a popular y9 who uses his dads status(having gone to jail) to gain respect from the other kids..

Dylan
Chiswick Carnegie

King of Nothing was a very emotive book that really makes you think about the world's values and current events that are taking place. The story follows a young boy who is going through school as a popular person who doesn't yet truly understand the meaning of life. It really shows how important friendship is for being truly respected. It shows how important relationships are key and I think it is very relatable and understandable for young readers like me. I understood the book very well because It really made me think about school life and the world around me. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand friendship and how to make one- even in the most unlikely places. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would definitely read it again.

Grace
Chiswick Carnegie

It was an amazing book and although nothing really happened in the plot, it was hilarious and kept me engaged right the way through. But it was also a little sad and shows how real life really is with no big threats but how life can be for teenagers. The characters are relatable and connect with the character, especially the protagonist, Anton an his unlikely friend Matthew in questioning his values. The book tackles significant themes like toxic masculinity, peer pressure, grief and the importance of being true to yourself in a way that doesn't feel preachy. In summary, it explores lots of different themes like harmful stereotypes and friendships. I rate this book 3 out of 5

Victoria
FOFF Girls

King of Nothing is a gem of a YA novel that strikes the perfect balance between laugh-out-loud hilarity and deeply poignant themes. Nathanael Lessore delivers a masterclass in character-driven storytelling, crafting a journey that is both wildly entertaining and quietly profound. Anton, self-proclaimed king of Year 9, is initially hard to root for. He rules through intimidation, fuelled by his father’s criminal reputation, and is dead set on keeping his "cool kid" persona intact. But Lessore doesn’t allow Anton to stay one-dimensional. The narrative gradually peels back the layers, exposing the vulnerability beneath his bravado. Forced into the quirky world of the Happy Campers as a punishment for his antics, Anton’s life collides with Matthew—an eternal optimist, unshaken by bullying and brimming with bizarrely charming logic. Matthew steals the show with his delightful eccentricity. Whether he’s waxing poetic about moist lemon drizzle cake or offering unfiltered, heartfelt truths, he’s an unforgettable character. Through their budding friendship, Lessore weaves an authentic exploration of toxic masculinity, peer pressure, and self-worth. The contrast between Anton’s performative toughness and Matthew’s unapologetic genuineness provides the emotional core of the novel. What truly elevates King of Nothing is its ability to tackle weighty themes—absent fathers, gender stereotypes, and the lure of “gangsta” culture—without ever becoming preachy. The Gen Z humour, witty dialogue, and sharp observations make it an engaging read for teens while offering plenty for adults to appreciate. It is not only a story of redemption but a celebration of the courage it takes to challenge societal norms and forge one’s own path. By the end, Anton’s growth is so satisfying that you can’t help but cheer for him—and for Matthew, whose unshakable kindness is a quiet rebellion in itself. Perfect for readers 11+, King of Nothing is a funny, heartfelt, and ultimately empowering tale about the strength it takes to be vulnerable. Lessore proves once again that he’s a powerful voice in contemporary YA fiction. A must-read!

Mrs Naden
Lostock Carnegie Shadowers

The book starts off in a school setting and we are introduced to 2 characters and the main character who is called Anton. Anton is this funny character who is kinda care free in a way, he acts really tough and he holds a lot of pride for example in the first scene we see that he is starting to insulting the teacher when going into detention but when he was about to back down he see's this person recording and because he built such a reputation for himself he kept it going not wanting to back down now knowing there were cameras on him. overall I would rate this book a 3/10 since it was not my kind of book but it definitely had some funny lines I think some readers would enjoy and I also didn't find it as gripping as it could have been.

Aeife
MSJ Shadowers

What a thought provoking, intelligent, humorous and yet at times terribly sad read. It is very easy, having enjoyed a book, to say everyone must read it, but with this book, that is the case. Anton is a troubled soul, trying to be ‘King of the School’ with a reputation to keep. His ‘friends’ see him as a tough guy, son of a prison inmate, ready to put down any one who stands in his way, or disagrees with his opinion, but is this the real Anton? A timely story about toxic-masculinity, the danger of social-influencers and the real meaning of friendship and family. This book never preaches, it simply tells one boy’s story, through his own eyes. Anton realises that being ‘King of the School’ has an expiry date, and being ‘King of Nothing’ can be a lifetime’s sentence. Everyone can change if they really want to, the question is ‘do they want to’? Anton does.

Mrs B.
TGS Book Group

King of Nothing has an uplifting end and good message however I feel it was quite childish and I'm not a fan of the style of writing. I think this book has a better plot than Steady For This as I really didn't enjoy that one.

Elsie
Eltham Hill Y9 Book Club

I read "Steady for This" last year and I really didn't enjoy it. However I thought this book was very uplifting and I liked it a lot. I think the slang was a bit too much but the plot was good.

Eliza
Eltham Hill Y9 Book Club

This was a wonderful book for older readers from about 10+ and was overall a relatable, funny story about secondary school and unlikely friendships. As I was reading, I was laughing so hard because of all the slang. This is an empowering story about the importance of women's rights and finding what is really important to YOU. This book was about a strange friendship between one of the meanest school bullies and the so-called "loser", Matthew. They start being friends after Matthew saves the bully, Anton, 's life. They become really good friends and Anton finds himself questioning all he is and all he has done. It's an amazing story to read with friends, family or even in class

Clara
Sheringdale Page Turners

I loved the concept of the story and it really showed the characters development and how they reacted to the obstacles that were put in their paths, I really loved the story overall.

Natasha
Axe Valley Readers

I liked the concept of the story, and the use of vocabulary to entice younger readers and I liked how the main character developed over the course of the book.

Sophie
Axe Valley Readers

I enjoyed how to the book was as it gave me an insight to the experience of what their lifestyles are like and how a person can change based on their experiences. It also shows that you shouldn't need to impress your friends by doing something you aren't comfortable with especially if it affects others negatively. It was a very unique and interesting read though.

logan
Axe Valley Readers

I liked the use of the modern slang that was implemented through out the book because it made it a book that all different people can read. I also like the concept of the story and how we can see the characters develop.

Isla
Axe Valley Readers

I enjoyed reading this book and how it really shows how at school being mean does not show power. Following Anton's story truly shows that you should never be held back from whoever or whatever you desire to befriend or follow. Anton's emotional depth really felt like this novel was more than a book. I would really enjoy more from this author.

harry
Axe Valley Readers

I thought the book was intriguing and I love how Anton changes his opinion on Matthew and becomes friends with him after ignoring him throughout school. It shows how you don't have to stay with your friends if they are being rude.

Digby
Axe Valley Readers

I like the how main character speaks and the book was overall intriguing. I could relate to a lot of stuff he thought at the beginning. I love how at one point Anton didn't like Mathew at the start but later on in the book he started to feel almost sorry for him and becomes friends. I think this book is good for an audience of the age 12-16

Charlie
Axe Valley Readers

I was (forced) to read this by my favourite teacher as part of our Carnegie bookshadowing group... Thank God. Going into it, I had very low expectations as the first chapters affirmed... It was all 'mandem' this and 'bruv' that, with an obnoxious main I never thought I could grow to like. However, as the story progressed, Anton (the protagonist) began to grow on me. The ice that surrounded him began to melt, and I caught glimpses of the boy he could be. The boy he was. It's a direct exploration of toxic masculinity, but it handles it really, really well. It shows the misogyny being projected on social media, by Andrew Tate and others of that sort, and how it impacts Anton's view on the world. It also promotes kindness in very subtle ways. And the end! I don't have words for how poignant and moving it was. I never, ever cry at books. King of Nothing was the exception. I read it all in one sitting; I actually could not put it down. Please read it. Please.

Grace
The Carrick Carnegies

The King of Nothing is a lovely, funny and important book based on it's storyline and message that it is trying to get across. This book made me laugh out loud but also feel very sorry for some characters throughout the book. I has emotional depth which pulled me in. Overall I loved the book and definitely in the running line for my vote.

Annabel
Broadland Bookworms

This book goes through the hardships of Anton, the “King” of his school. Anton gets in a big bit of trouble at school, so he has to volunteer at the ‘Happy Campers’. He gets to know Matthew, a person whom he found to be weird, but now as slightly weird and his friend, who saved Anton’s life. Anton’s other friends abandon him, and it all changes for him.

Laurence
Reader Leaders

I loved King of Nothing! The way that Anton goes from being class bully and being respected because of his dad, to being respected for being a good person. My favourite character was probably his nanna because she is always there for Anton and was with him and his mum when the tragedy struck the family. How he grew up in such a depressing and poor area of the town and still had it in him to be a good person shows us that we do sometimes discriminate people for coming from a different background to us. It is really funny but still has some meaning in it that teaches us to be true to ourselves and use our voices not be spoken for or acted for. SPOILER ALERT! At the end when Anton goes and saves Matthew is my favourite part because you really feel the empathy for him when he saves Caleb and Kehinde from the fire. He is good at heart and knows what is right in the end! I would give this book 5 stars and definitely will recommend to my friends.

Imogen
Weald of Kent Tonbridge

King of Nothing follows a boy called Anton and the calamities him and his friends cause at school, before his Mum catches on. Anton is forced to go to a camp which he hates. But when his life is saved, what will he do?

Estlin
Ermysted’s

I think that this book was extremely good. At the start of the book, I didn't think that I would find it interesting, but by the end I realised that this book is amazing. It really shows how people can change no matter what they have done in the past. I would love to read more books from this author!

Anna
CSGS Page Turners 25

I was very moved by "The King of Nothing", it was not the book I thought it was going to be. The character of Anton does not appear very likeable at first, he is dismissive of people, rude to his family and other students at school, and has a poor attitude. However there is a glimmer of hope when he stands up for Matthew against his friend Kehinde at the start of the book, because he remembers that Matthew was once kind to him. When Anton's Mum takes him to task and sends him to a youth group that Matthew attends, we start to see a softer side to him. Gradually as he takes part in the activities with the group he begins to enjoy himself and discovers a love of painting. He starts to see his old friends in a new light, and realises that they are not really good friends at all. He realises that he does not need his tough reputation to be liked, and in fact his old friends are bullies. When he attends a talk about gender equality, he starts to appreciate all his Mum and Nanna do for him and how misogynistic Kehinde really is. As he makes new friends he finds the courage to move away from his old friends and his old views, not an easy thing for anyone to do. I really liked the positive messages in this book about tackling any forms of prejudice and standing up for your friends and family and yourself.

Mrs Small
Watford Girls

This book was amazing! I loved how emotional the story got at times, and how Anton deals with things that are thrown his way. I also love how real it feels, how it seems like the characters could literally jump of the page and into real life! I think it bears a good resemblance to a teenager's life; friendships, drama, school. Sometimes the story was a bit boring, though, especially at the start as I found it hard to get into. Overall, I think this is an amazing story, and I would definitely recommend this to one of my friends.

Tomalyn
Plumites

Something I think is great about the book is that you can see Anton’s personality shift throughout the chapters, but I believe the writing to be a little abrupt and his personality seems to alter large sums between the chapters start and finish. You can see how he changes, but its just quite quick to switch up. It educates you on the importance of close friends, but it also follows a common steryotype, with the 'bad boy' and the 'unpopular kid/nerd'. Although I think it was a good read, the simple plot and steryotypes evidently made the book a bit boring.

Jennifer
Kesgrave Bookworms

What really stands out to me about King of Nothing is Nathanael Lessore’s choice to tell the story from Anton’s point of view — the “bully”. It’s not often that we get to see things through the eyes of someone who’s usually seen as the bad guy. I think the book is really well balanced, with a good mix of insight and humour that keeps it interesting. The humour helps lighten the mood and makes the story more enjoyable to read. King of Nothing also carries strong messages and teaches important lessons. It highlights serious issues like gender inequality and toxic masculinity. That said, I did find that some of the slang was a bit confusing, which made a few parts hard to understand. Overall, though, the book does a great job of showing the struggles that teenagers go through — especially the ones that adults often ignore. I would definitely recommend this book to others.

Chantelle
Rainbeau Readers

The book King of Nothing is a book about Anton who is forced to join an activity group called the Happy Campers. In this book he forms an unlikely friendship with Matthew and has to rethink what truly matters to him. I liked this book because it is engaging for teens using a certain language. Overall, I would recommend this book to people who like coming of age stories and also books with friendship and self discovery.

Eloise
The Fitzharrys Shadows

The king of nothing is a really funny book and gets you hooked straight away. One of the things I liked most was the heartwarming relationship between Anton and Matthew. It’s cool to see how they help each other grow. Although, some of the ways the kids talk felt really exaggerated. I get that it’s supposed to be how they speak, but sometimes it was a bit too much and didn’t feel real.

Cole
LHS Shadowing Group 2025

I loved this book. It was full of humor and made laugh at some points. The character development is very noticeable and overall the book was just really great

Emma
Fiction Addiction

Honestly, this was a great book, showing Anton’s personality shift, and how he got rid of the negative people in his life. It was funny, wholesome, and teaches you things about life as well! Even though I enjoyed it, it was pretty slow and I lost interest somewhere in the middle. But I picked it up again, and the ending met expectations! Would recommend, especially for people suffering from peer pressure. 7/10

Vanya
TPS Carnegie Collective

Anton is king of the school. everyone is scared of him but when nerd Matthew saves his life he questions if he is doing the right thing with his life. And when his dad is released from prison and wants to meet him Anton doesn't know what to think. Does he want to ditch the gang and be himself or will have to keep himself under wraps forever?

Sophia
The John Mason Shadowers

this book follows Anton as he makes new friends and leaves old ones behind. he learns about the term toxic masculinity and what it means to be a man. the book has a good moral which is to respect women. would recommend. good book

Pranav Rajan
Ermysted’s

King Of Nothing is a social realism novel, set in present day, South London. The atmosphere and setting is quite familiar as some of the story occurs in a school where rumours spread quickly, and a "popular gang" dominates the school. For example, this powerful group of friends messed with a student who barged into them without meaning to, by tripping him up and pushing him in all directions. Anton, the protagonist, is a part of this gang, and is the centre of attention at the school, as everyone has heard of his father who was sent to jail. Anton was raised by a single mother and his grandmother, who moved in with them after the father's arrest to help raise Anton so his mother could go to university. Anton experiences deep sorrow and guilt after the death of his grandmother and the bullying of Matthew, the number 1 "loser" in the gang's eyes. Matthew saves Anton's life on a camping trip and by the end of the book, Anton has learned that "true friends" are the ones who stand up for you and care for you during difficult times. He also learns that his reputation at school doesn't matter, and that the most important thing is concentrating on work, being nice to others, being a friend to others, rather than being feared by them. An important moment which contributes to the development of Anton's character, is his camping trip, organised by his mum's refuge camp. During this trip, he bonds with Matthew and the Happy Campers (the children who go to the St Luke's refuge in their free time), although he is out of his comfort zone, he discovers new things. I felt anxiety when I realised that Anton's ex-friends had told him to meet up somewhere, as bait, for them to beat up Matthew, because they didn't want him hanging out with a "loser". I also felt excited when Anton came to the rescue of his friend. This book has shown me the importance of true, caring friends and how important it is to be sure of what kind of people you depend on and hang out with. It has also taught me that change and a fresh starts often a good thing and we can see it here, when Anton adapts to a new environment, joining the Happy Campers and becoming a new person. This book includes many different important and daily life situations, that occur today all around the world and it is very interesting to see how each character deals with those dilemmas and I think this book is a MUST read!

AmbroiseHG
4Shadowers

l found the book to be a real life reflection about how peer pressure can be inflicted by people who you believe to be your friends. It’s also interesting how Anton has a major character development throughout the story from how he went from picking on people to helping them against his “friends”.

Juliette.f
4Shadowers

I rather enjoyed King of Nothing as it showed Anton's journey from being a gangster in the making to becoming a wholesome person. I liked how Anton broke away from the toxicity he was in that he thought was what he needed. It also had a few laughs and the slang I felt was really relatable. I would definitely recommend . 11 stars ***********

Favor
Grays Shadows

The King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is an engrossing book about Anton and his unlikely friendship with Matthew. I really enjoyed the plot of the book, and especially the big twists. Overall, I found this book entertaining, and I would rate it 5/5!

Oliver
The Fitzharrys Shadows

"King of Nothing" is a social realism novel taking place in a school similar to ours. It felt familiar as some of the characters reminded me of people I know. The main character, Anton, is a reckless teenager who's always getting into trouble with his gang but just doesn't care. He isn't concerned about his future and doesn't realise that he might be ruining it. However, we can see him change throughout the book, especially after befriending Matthew. He evolves from a careless and thoughtless bully into a more mature and intelligent person. At the end of the story, when his former gang starts vandalising the St Luke refuge, Anton stands up to them instead of helping them like he would have done a few months ago. We can see he's changed and that troublemaking is behind him now. By the end of the book, he's learned that the best friends aren't those who are the most respected and feared by the others, but those you can count on and trust. I felt tension throughout the book as the main character has fragile relationships with the other characters which could be broken at any moment. For example, at one point he is forced to be mean to his new friend Matthew to avoid getting beaten up by his former gang. This nearly destroys their friendship. Reading "King of Nothing", taught me a lot about the complex relationships which link teenagers together. It really made me understand the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships. It explores themes such as courage, bullying, family, friendship and forgiveness and I think that every teen should read it.

Auguste HG
4Shadowers

Personally, I think this book was amazing. I really taught me the importance of friendships and how sometimes the people who you have never talked to could become one of the best friends you will ever meet and possible save your life in the most unexpected way. I really love the way that Nathanael Lessore writes his books. I love all the little details that are hilarious and that most people will understand (like the Eurovision one). I think that this book is the perfect balance of funny but also important teachings such as always help your family, because you never know when they could one day disappear out of your life. I really enjoyed this book! Overall I would rate it a 8/10.

Liya
SHSK Shadowers

This book really reflects what modern schools and society are like for young people today. It shows how “gang-like” behaviour can spread, and how some students can be forced into acting violently through pressure and exploitation. In the story, you also see how, without proper education, some young people end up thinking it’s cool to act that way. Reading this book taught me a lot about how tough life can be for families with only one parent, and how these families can often be ignored. It really helps readers understand and empathise with people in those situations. I strongly recommend this book because the lessons you take from it are really valuable and rewarding.

Clayton
Rainbeau Readers

I personally really liked the book. This is because it has a good mix of bits that are funny and bits that are serious. I also liked that the book featured characters that were close to my age. The message behind the book is also good - the message is obvious for anyone who reads it. The message is on a very important subject and this book brings it across very well. Overall, the book is the perfect mix of all the things I enjoy reading and this is why I liked it so much.

Joseph
Reader Leaders

I really enjoyed this book as it's a heart-warming, funny, unlikely friends genre. It also shows the maturing of a young boy who is getting ready to choose his subjects for his GCSEs, which I can relate to.

Hemjyot
Reader Leaders

King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is an awesome and hilarious book that also makes you think. It came out on April 11, 2024, and follows Anton, a Year 9 kid who thinks he’s the boss of the school. Everyone knows him, and he acts tough, especially because his dad is in prison. He kind of wears it like a badge of honour. But his mum is not having it, so she forces him to join the "Happy Campers," a community group that’s the opposite of everything Anton likes. At Happy Campers, he meets Matthew, a kid he used to think was a complete loser. Then something crazy happens—Matthew actually saves Anton’s life. After that, everything starts to change. Anton has to figure out who he really is, not just who he pretends to be. The book is really funny, and Anton’s voice feels super real. He’s got this over-the-top personality that makes you laugh, but at the same time, you can tell he’s struggling with stuff like fitting in, being tough, and what it really means to be a friend. Matthew is such a great character too - he’s weird in the best way and doesn’t care what people think. I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes funny but meaningful stories. It’s got a great message about being yourself and choosing the right people to have in your life. I’d give it a solid 9.5/10!

Navid
Europa Champs

This was the last book in the shortlist that I read - but it didn't disappoint! I thought it was really well paced, had engaging characters and dealt with the issues of friendship & difference really well. The wider themes of masculinity, beliefs and values was dealt with convincingly and clearly - it was great to see how the main character grew.

Dr Jones
MSJ Shadowers

The story is about a teenager who used to have a bad reputation for being a bully – mocking his teachers and ditching detention. Then he meets a person who changes his life and he starts to think about his actions. Meanwhile, his friends get upset and try to change his mind. When reading the book, I enjoyed the funny jokes and the way the main character mocks his teachers and how the writer establishes him in the opening chapter. The only weakness I think the book has is that the writer introduces the person who changes the life of the main character a bit late in the story – but, overall, I though the book was wonderful and fun to read. Five stars: *****

Sudeys
Rockwood Reads

Really good book - would definitely recommend! The story is amazing out of 10 I would rate this book a 9.7

Toby
QEGS CARNEGIE BOOK CLUB

I found this book intriguing and the the main character Anton was relatable. I think it showed the social pressures felt by teenagers and interactions with peers and adults credibly.

Rose
Flegg Heads

This book was really good but there was a sad moment in the book about when Matthew got brutally beat up by Kehinde and Marcus. But apart from that the book was really good it would be cool if there was a book 2.

kyle
Herne Bay High School Carnegie

“King of Nothing" explores complexities of morals and power, It really stands out when the plot is engaging and the characters are developed, making the whole experience feel much more interest It’s a bit tricky to identify specific character arcs that might need some more background information about them without exploring the story further. Overall 4

Oussama
Isleworth & Syon

King of Nothing is an engaging and humorous but also sensitive and empathetic at the same time. When you read this book, you can understand all the characters thoughts and choices; you can see every characters different opinions and you can watch the characters grow and feel like you have been on a journey with them. Convincing, truthful and well-written, King of Nothing is a heart-warming, funny and easy to read novel that will inspire readers to make better choices.

Sienna
Diary of a Wally Kid

'King of Nothing' is a very... average book. It's good, but there are most probably better books. The writing is good (I may have PTSD for the word 'fam') and joyful (I also may not have understood half of the words like 'mandem'. Even autocorrect is saying it's not a word) but it's so very average. It has an overdone plot with a classic cliché at the end. After reading half of the book I knew exactly how the book would end just because of the overdone cliché that the book progresses towards. 5.5/10, well written, but average.

Thomas
Carnegievores

I found it interesting because I could relate to most of it and it was a great book easy to read. At the last 4-5 chapters I couldn't stop reading it because it was so amazing!

Fred
Herne Bay High School Carnegie

I think this book is really good and adventures into the life of the main character and friends and also has a very good moral behind it. 8/10 so far!

Joe
TGS Book Group

The book was interesting and shows the life of a student accurately. I think it had a lot of key moments, and in the end, Anton goes to the right friend. It also taught me that every choice I make has a consequence, whether it's good or bad. Overall, I enjoyed reading the book.

Vitomir
Winchmore School Carnegie Group 2024/25

The book was a decent read as it touches upon many topics that are relevant today. Such as the influence of social media and those around you. The story touches upon the themes of loss, gangs and violence. However in this novel most of the speech and some of the writing are written in slang which for me personally slightly destroyed the flow of the book. Another thing is that the ending is a bit fairy tale like for an example how none of the accomplices get punished except for the main culprit.

Katherine
KES Bookworms

I think this book is displayed as incredibly wholesome, and is tear bringing in both ways. I believe it is very inspiring for young readers as it sparks hope that anyone can change. While it is making readers laugh, it also raises awareness of toxic masculinity and misogyny. It was an incredible read.

Jennifer
Horsham BOok HUNTers

« King of nothing » is a rib-achingly funny and thoughtful social realism novel, telling the story of Anton, feared and respected by all in his London school. One day, the school’s biggest loser, Matthew, unexpectedly saves his life. This leads to an unanticipated friendship, and Anton begins to question all the values and principles that have guided his actions until now. This book is set South London, alternating between a school, the protagonist’s house, and the meeting place of a group called the “Happy Campers”. This environment makes it easy to identify with and connect with the characters. Throughout the book, we observe the evolution of Anton’s mindset, in a very positive way, which brings us joy. We can see his family is also very proud of him. Indeed, he switches from a very enclosed, brutal and nasty personality to an open-minded, thoughtful and generous young boy. This transition, mainly provoked by his new company, Matthew, and the death of his beloved grandmother, is preceded by a difficult period of self-questioning and profound sadness, leading to a new willingness to make things better. This is illustrated by a moment when someone comes to the “Happy Campers” meeting place to discuss gender equality. Listening to it, Anton realizes how sexist and inaccurate the podcasts he used to listen to with his mates were, and starts wondering whether he should still stay with his little “gang” because they could actually be toxic for him. At the beginning, I despised the disrespectful and bullying Anton , but I still felt a little attachment to him as he was the main character. In the end, I was totally amazed by the way he managed to transform his identity to his benefit, and how some moments completely changed his vision of the world. For example, the moment he realized Matthew was right about the fact that being his true self is the better way to be liked, that he didn’t want to follow his father’s path, evoked a large range of emotions for me, particularly relief, empathy and respect. This book is, I think, the written representation of the proverb “Don’t judge a book by its cover”. Reading it, I understood the importance of not judging others by their appearance. Indeed, from Anton’s bully vision, Matthew and Rochelle seemed to be two weird nerds, but when he gets to know them better, he falls in love with Rochelle and finds Matthew super nice! I strongly, strongly recommend this novel.

RaphaelHG
4Shadowers

King of Nothing. Rating: 8.5/10. I personally think this book is a book that will stay on your mind for a while and let you second think your decisions in school. I think this book will make you visualize your daily lessons in school. I believe everyone who reads this will love to read more of Nathanael Lessore's books, the slang the characters speak in is very relatable to teens . I recommend this book to teenagers between 13-17.

Serwaa
Bramcote College Library

King of Nothing is probably one the best books I have read. The book consists of very realistic and relatable situations from school, family and community life. Contrasting two very different personalities who somehow weirdly relate to each other. King of Nothing is as emotional as it is funny. Honestly i think "funny" is an understatement, this book is beyond funny.I would not recommend reading this book in public if you have an ugly laugh Both main characters had very unpredictable personalities. I rate this book a 10 out of 10. I would recommend anyone to read this book.

Kayla
Bramcote College Library

The king of Nothing is about a boy at school who gets in to trouble with his friends. I liked the King of Nothing because it was funny and made me laugh a lot and I couldn't stop reading it, especially when it got to the end. I think people aged 11-14 should read this. I think I would give King of Nothing 5 stars.

Lilly-Bella
Bramcote College Library

This book for me was one of my favourites it had a heart-warming story about change and overcoming things and being able to let go of a reputation to improve life. I loved how Anton was able to change and help Mathew through his troubles. Except for some unusually slang I would say this is a 5 star book and would be perfect for most ages.

Sofia
Bramcote College Library

King of Nothing is a captivating book from the start, hooking the reader in with characters that capture your curiosity and relatable scenarios. The topics discussed and challenged in this book are as important as ever and are dealt with perfectly. Showing such a difficult and sensitive topic from a usually unseen perspective takes a certain type of talent, that Nathan Lessore most definitely wields. I would recommend this book to alot of adults looking for a window into many young peoples mindsets and daily lives. 8/10.

Jessica
Bramcote College Library

In my opinion, "The King Of Nothing" is an amazing book which really showcases the unlikely friendships of school. It is the story of a year 9 boy, who is torn between wanting to fit in with his friends, and wanting to make new ones. I would recommend it for ages 12 or above, or any younger prolific readers. I felt that this book could be so relatable for so many people. I would give it 4 out of 5 stars.

Tilly
Bramcote College Library

I would say that King of Nothing is a bittersweet tale with a bit of death . I love how everyone supported Anton in becoming a better person . The only people that didn't support him were his old group. I love how it is so relatable to children.

Remus
Brooke Weston Book Busters

I loved the book it was so funny with the slang language and the jokes it was awesome!

Ridhwan
Brooke Weston Book Busters

I loved this book, it was great to see Anton slowly change from being misogynistic, being in a gang, not appreciating his nan and mums effort and slowly stepping away from Kehinde and becoming best friends with Matthew. There are so many interesting and fun side plots and characters such as Anton's relationships with his dad: he is a man who was in prison for punching someone, Anton looked up to him and kids at school where scared of him because of what his dad did. Anton liked being seen as a kid who had a dad in prison because nobody would mess with him. Once Anton meets his dad he realizes he is a weak, misogynistic man. Overall, I think this book is an amazing read.

Robson
Kingdown

Was relatable at the start but went downhill very quickly. Would not recommened this.

Ellie
GreatB00ks

This book was a whirlwind of emotions, and definitely captured important issues, whilst making serious topics easier, by introducing women’s rights on Anton's journey to better understanding and taking action. The book was both hilarious and random (Matthew) and thought-provoking and at points very upsetting. I really enjoyed the mix of important topics, and it helped me understand women’s rights and sanctuary’s as Anton’s mother was building while along Anton’s journey too. Matthew added an aspect of light heartedness to the book and lightened the spirit, demonstrating true friendship for Anton, especially during grief and realisation toward his ‘gang’. I loved this book, and I really believe it captured secondary school life, along with peer pressure, grief and friendship. It was an excellent book, and well-written, to display both boys different approaches, especially in lifestyles and hobbies. I would definitely recommend it to and secondary school reader, for an unexpected adventure with Anton and Matthew. 10/10!!

Anastasia
Herts and Essex

I really liked this book, and it didn’t feel like the introduction dragged on for too long. I especially loved the moment when Anton realised what he was doing was wrong and how much more fun he was having with Matthew compared to his old group of friends. It was also great to see how his teachers, friends, and family helped him become a better person.

Lena
Rainbeau Readers

This book was so funny and relatable to uk students so it was quite fun to read and there were no boring moments whatsoever I just wanted to carry on reading. No spoilers but Antons development throughout the book was really nice to read seeing how he changed for the better but towards the ending it made him realise so much more about women and his mother too which is a nice addition.

amelija
Marshland Readers

This book is the best. It has loads of slang which I can relate to and it just makes me keep reading on to find out what happens next. My favourite bit is when Matthew saves Anton from the bees. At the end of the book when Anton went from being a bully to someone who helps people got stuck in my head as it shows how someone or something can change you to be a good person. This book is the best - hopefully it wins.

Rene
Sheringdale Page Turners

I enjoyed the book. It was nice to see how Anton’s personality changed throughout the book. It is really funny but there are many slang words. Would recommend!!!

Emina
Sheringdale Page Turners

I absolutely love this book there are so many different lessons to learn here. I think that the book really portrays how difficult life can be but also shows that you can overcome that with proper friends by your side. It makes you feel as if you are the character and that if you have had a tough past you can change even if that means turning from a bully into a kind person.It also shows the difficulty through friendship as sometimes you might think that someone is your friend but soon realise that the things they are doing are not right. It it really cool to look through the book and see how each chapter Anton starts to realise more that he shouldn't be bullying people. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend.

Isla
Sheringdale Page Turners

This book follows Year 9 student Anton in his journey through becoming a new person. He is "king of the school" and wears his dads imprisonment like a badge at secondary. The people he spends time with are constantly tormenting other students and are very sexist. When he is forced to join a trip called the "happy campers" where he meets school "loser" Matthew, he ends up saving Anton's life. This changes the way he acts in life and he realises that you have to make sure your friends are real and only true friends will support you and help you to lead a better life, be the best, kindest most helpful person you can be and help you in your decisions throughout life.

Lara
Sheringdale Page Turners

Anton's father is in prison which Anton uses to make people respect him. His friend group at school is violent and has sexist views. When he "volunteers" at the Happy Campers his attitude changes when someone comes to talk about sexism and one of the camp members saves him from a bee sting allergy. And helps him come to terms with his fears. This story shows how peoples views on the world can change. I think this book is gripping because it makes you think about what will happen next. I think it can give you encouragement to change because you know it's possible. If you like reading about overcoming problems I recommend you read this.

Lydia
Larkmead

The book ‘King of Nothing’ is about how Anton starts to realise that his friend group is actually quite cruel to the people at school. He also starts to feel uncomfortable with their sexist comments. When he gets into trouble at school, his mum forces him to join a local activity group- the Happy Campers. It personally wasn’t my favourite book because of the slang and the storyline. I also don’t particularly enjoy this sort of book however people that like reality based fantasy might. It’s very similar to another book by Nathanael Lessore: Steady For This. I would recommend it for ages 8+ and I would rate it 6/10.

Hannah
The Fitzharrys Shadows

This was a very good book, it teaches you that you don't have to be naughty or misbehave to be respected. It also teaches you that you should consider who you choose to be friends with. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes books that could be true stories and that teach you important life lessons.

Adaml
Ermysted’s

3 words: relatable, realistic, immersive Personally, I enjoyed the book and I think the relationships between characters were interesting. It was also quite immersive. The only thing that I felt let it down was the ‘saving his life’ from the blurb I expected something more exciting. But as it is aimed for kids I do understand the lack of detail and washing over the event. Overall, I don't think I would this story again as for me it was a bit boring, I don’t really think is also not for my age group. But I believe my brother may be interested in the story.

Isabella
Books on trial

I really enjoyed reading this book, and highly recommend it for mature pre-teens, teenagers, and adults too. It was funny, dramatic and very inspiring. We follow the journey of a teenage boy called Anton, who is dealing with being in a gang and trying to do the right thing. I particularly loved reading about Anton's everyday life dramas. His personality changes throughout the story. In one stage of the book he has to choose between being with his old friends (who are unkind bullies), or being with his new friends (that actually believe in him doing good in the world). Anton has to deal with some large life events when his Dad is released from prison, and his Nanna dies. With the support from his friends he is able to come to terms with them, and face his fears.

Grace
Sheringdale Page Turners

King Of Nothing is an unbelievably funny book. The sort of language Anton uses in the book such as "Alpha wolf" and stuff like that are hilarious! But also near the end of the book, the way Anton's personality changes from a gang member who can't take anything without a fight to someone who protects others and helps them instead of hurting someone else is thoughtful if you think deeply about it. Also the fact that his old friends were Marcus, Caleb and Kehinde but changed to Matthew, Rochelle and Fernanda after he realised who he was as a person kind of shows that he wanted to have a change from his aggressive, gangster life to a calm one. It really shows that people don't need to look back at all the bad things that they have done in the past and should only look towards the thousands of positive and memorable moments waiting up ahead in the future.

Mylo
Sheringdale Page Turners

Grace
Sheringdale Page Turners

This book is one of my favourite by far. It is really speaking my language and i can relate to it so much. It is probably the funniest book i have ever read and i enjoyed it so much. My favourite part was when Matthew and Anton got lost in the woods and when he saved Anton’s life from the bee sting. I just found this part so interesting and plot-twisting and I couldn’t stop reading. Equally, i also enjoyed following Anton’s relationship with Rochelle. It’s a kind of will they, wont they and it seems Anton quite like’s her but try’s to play it off and ignore his feelings; acting like they are enemies. In conclusion, I think that Nathanael Lessore is a fantastic author and this book brought me lots of laughs and smiles. I give it 5/5 stars and wish all the best.

Emily B
Herts and Essex

I did not have a very high expectations for this book purely because I usually pick a book I want to read from my bookshelf at home , which is a bit stupid i know but it's true . However my experience was completely different to my expectation of this book. I usually struggle to follow with all the characters but for this book I found it really easy. It was always clear who was speaking and how they were feeling . By the time I got to the end I was thinking to myself that it was all over and it was a happy ending, but all I have to say is WOW WHAT AN ENDING it took me by surprise completely. At one point I even wanted to speak out loud and tell Anton that he was making the wrong choice . In conclusion I really loved this book and recommend end it to any one else who is looking for a book to read .

NOLA
Norwich School Carnegie Shadowers

I think that King Of Nothing is a well written novel had I was hooked from the moment I picked it up. This was because the characters were funny and the author expressed their emotions through effective words.

Ned
Bookwizards

King of Nothing follows Anton, who is dubbed ‘king of the school’, because of the reputation of his father who is in prison. He stays in a gang with his four friends, and they terrorize the smaller kids while also getting into fights. This all changes when a ‘loser’ boy, Matthew, saves his life, and helps Anton to start to see life a different way. This book follows the changes he must face to be the better person, and how he must stand up to those closest to him to do that. This book has the most compelling storyline, looking to people to change and be the best version of themselves they can be, and tackles toxic masculinity while also showing and explaining it on an easy to understand level. I feel this book was my favourite for its storyline, as it left me wanting to read more, to find out if he did make the right decision as I read it and if everything ended well. I would recommend this to people my age as it’s a good book and one of my favourites.

Rowan
The Fitzharrys Shadows

When I started reading King of nothing I knew that it was not my type of book. For, example I prefer books with a futuristic twist to them and characters who have a lot of free will and slightly confusing backgrounds. However, in king of nothing the theme was teenage experiences and feelings towards others. The book is centred around a teenage boy named Anton who is forced to join a club called the ‘happy campers’ after getting in trouble in school. The ‘happy campers’ however include an annoying character called Matthew who unexpectedly saves Anton’s life and from then on is helped by Anton to find him a girlfriend. My least favourite bit of the book was when Kehinde (One of Anton’s friends from his group) gets angry at Anton for not answering his calls and then Anton not telling him why. Although I did not like this book I still think that it was sometimes funny and interesting. I would give it a 4 out of 10.

Finn
Norwich School Carnegie Shadowers

King of Nothing is a book about school life, violence and changing friendships. My favourite character was Matthew because he was funny and unique but he was also kind and smart. I liked how Anton's grief was written because it made me feel really sad. The book had a mix of dramatic fighting scenes, emotional sad scenes and light-hearted fun scenes which made it interesting to read. I liked how some of the characters' sexist views made me feel annoyed. This made the book very engaging. The scenes where Anton talked to his dad were interesting to read because of the conflicting ideas and values that were discussed. The only thing I didn't like was the fact that in the start of the book it felt slow paced and I would have preferred a faster paced beginning. Overall I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to secondary school students because it contains crime, violence, sexism, arson, prison and grief.

Sophie
The Fitzharrys Shadows

I enjoyed reading “King of Nothing” as I find it very relevant to our generation. I also found it very enjoyable because it used a lot of slang and relatable moments that were quite funny! I would recommend this book to a friend. :)

Ellie
Herts and Essex

Anton ruled the school alongside his friends but that all changed when his mother sent him to a camp with the happy campers. Once he realised he would have to spend the weekend with one of the biggest losers in the school he was sure his reputation was in jeopardy. However when the loser saved his life he was forced to reassess his values.

Philip
Waddesdon Shadowers

King Of Nothing is a gripping book about a boy called 'Anton', who misbehaves in school with his group of friends and is forced to volunteer at a community project called 'Happy Campers' where he becomes friends with a quirky boy at school called 'Mathew' who saves his life. The book teaches us a lesson that we shouldn't always have to follow stereotypes, but should instead be ourselves and pick our friends carefully. Overall, this book was very enjoyable to read with an important lesson, and I would recommend it to others in KS3.

Bulent
Fiction Addiction

This book was surprisingly good, and even though it’s not the kind of book I usually go for, I still really enjoyed it. It follows the story of a teenage boy called Anton, who thinks he’s the coolest guy in school and acts really tough—everyone’s kind of scared of him. But then his mum sends him to a camp, and he meets an awkward guy called Matthew. At first, Anton doesn’t like him, but as the story goes on, they become friends, even though they’re really different. I liked how the book showed that life as a teenage boy isn’t just black and white, and how it explored masculinity in a realistic way. I also liked that there were some serious moments, but they were balanced out with funny parts too.

Lea
Rainbeau Readers

King of nothing by Nathanael Lessore can be summed up in three words. Brilliant, logical and true. I enjoyed how it put the book in the perspective of a bully because most books I’ve read are usually from the perspective of a victim. I also liked how some facts that you may have overlooked had some relevance later on in the story such as how Anton’s mum was a project manager and that’s how the whole St Luke’s project started. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I recommend it to people who are 11+. I loved the characters and the descriptions of Matthew made me laugh. I think it was also very clever to add gender equality into it because that way many more people will be able to learn about it. I think it was a great book and would give it a solid 9/10.

Matthew B
Ermysted’s

At the start of the book, it shows a life of typical bullies (Anton) that are accepted because of what they have ( e.g. parents in prison, pranking their teachers) ; and because of a kid (Mathew) ,that was a nerd and was was left out; that kid saved his life from a deadly allergic reaction. Then they become friends which is completely ironic. And because of Mathew , his life begins to change, changing not only Anton and also Mathew and others around him, creating a good atmosphere. I like this book because it has a moral which says " you always have a chance to change." My favourite part of the book is when Anton is being "tortured" in Happy Camp he meets Mathew which wont give up on knowing him and to become friends.

Michal
VISTA Academy

I thought that king of nothing was an amazing book that all teenagers and high schoolers should read. It was written in slang and there was content in it that made it really relatable for high schoolers, and this also made it more fun to read. However, the book taught really important lessons about how you shouldn’t let others affect you and your life and also taught about toxic masculinity. This book was the perfect mix of educational, funny, sad and happy. I really really liked this book.

Holly
Sale High Readers

King of nothing is a funny book for young teens. The book starts when Anton (the main character) is in a mean gang of so-called “friends” but when his mum makes him go on a camping trip, his thoughts about behaviour, and kindness change and he opens up to be someone completely different. It is a humourous book full of jokes and fun language. I really enjoyed reading about Anton's relationships with his classmates, however, I would’ve liked to know more about the backgrounds of Anton's gang of friends and get to know them slightly better. The book left me feeling good. All in all I would definitely recommend it to a friend.

Reu
TBGS Readers

King of Nothing is a very inspiring book, It delves deep into the lives of young teenagers and how the "mandem" can be good or bad. The author also uses familiar terms that young boys would recognise like " fam", "moist", " you man" and "sesh". This hooks in young readers as it's like the book speaks to them. Absolutely AMAZING!!!!

Abubakr
Beauchamp Champs 2025

I found the book, King of Nothing, to be heart touching and adorable filled with lots of life lessons about finding real friends over reputation and using fear to gain respect introducing important topics like toxic masculinity, abuse in the household, violence and gender equality demonstrating these topics in the characters of Kehinde and of Antons dad, who he built his whole school image on due to his imprisonment. However all anyone really needs in their life is acceptance from friends that you and them enjoy each others company. My favourite character is Matthew because despite all that he was put through with Anton, he remained patient and caring, truly knowing what is needed in a friendship. This is a vital topic area that should be more openly discussed to avoid bad situations, such as women who need a place like St Lukes, in the book, a womens refuge centre. Tackling problems like these shown in the book is imperative to take notice of it in society and speak out against it. Overall this book talks about key issues but I didn't find this books storyline particularly interesting, with little powerful emotional connection to each character therefore I give this book a 3/5 stars.

Jade
TGS Book Group

This book review is about the book called The King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore. ‘Dreams are for Martin Luther King. I don’t need none of that. I’m king of the school, already living my best life.’ Or is he? When Anton is made to go to a group called ‘Happy Campers’ will he die from a bee sting? Or will he survive thanks to a classmate? Can he survive his friends and his recently released father? In my opinion this is a gripping book about peer-pressure that makes it high on your must-read list. It has everything I would want to see in a book: drama, plot twists and a hint of sadness. Personally, I would give the father a bigger role in the book instead of the few pages that he gets. Also, more about the past would be nice because we only get small amounts of information from before Anton's life. I think this could improve the book because it provides the basis for the book. Perfect for those aged 11 to 12. I give it 4.5 stars out of 5.

Danny
Europa Champs

The plot of this book is quite enjoyable, with the characters interactions with each other being quite fun to read. However, the characters at times seem to not act realistically, as they appear to have been overexaggerated, with their dialogue and actions towards one another not really reflecting real life. Additionally, I did not understand the pop culture references scattered throughout the book, but I understand this is subjective. However, overall I did enjoy this book.

James
Southmoor Storywriters

King of Nothing is a great book that follows the story of Anton the 'King of the School' who moves away from his violent friends/gang and his ex-convict of a dad. The book details the hardships Anton has to suffer from something as silly as losing his wifi to his nan dying. I like this book so much as it shows that you have control over all your choices even when it seems like you don't and that you should choose the choices best for you not the choice best for your reputation. The book also has a theme of giving help - when Anton and Matthew help decorate a community area. Anton realises just in time that he does care about his grades and starts to enjoy school (choosing Art as a GCSE).

Liam
Bookwizards

King Of Nothing shows that if you do something you don’t want to do it can have a positive effect on you because you can make new friends and you sometimes enjoy it (the St Luke's project). At the start of the trip Anton did not like Mathew but he grew to enjoy his company

Cody W
Ermysted’s

Nathanael Lessore’s King of Nothing is an extremely well written and eye opening book that captures the teenage experience with honesty, humour, and emotion. The story revolves around Anton, a cocky year 9 student who believes he’s the most popular kid in the school until he’s forced to join a youth group called the Happy Campers, where he starts to realise that there’s more to life than being “cool.” What makes this book so powerful is how it tackles serious topics like toxic masculinity, bullying, and identity without ever feeling like a lesson. Instead, Nathaniel uses clever dialogue, relatable characters, and just the right amount of humour to show how complicated growing up really is. Anton isn't perfect which makes him even more relatable to the reader. Lessore’s writing style is modern and engaging, with a strong voice that makes it feel like Anton is speaking directly to you. I especially appreciated how it showed that real strength comes from kindness and being yourself instead of putting others down. Overall, I think that the King of Nothing is both entertaining and meaningful. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who wants a fun yet challenging and informing book to read.

Oscar
Bookwizards

'King of Nothing' by Nathanael Lessore is a great book that highlights the emotional journey of a young boy as he navigates life at school and at home. With his father in prison and his reputation on the line, we get to experience first hand the thoughts that run through Anton's head and the people that end up saving him when it's most important. I particularly enjoyed the portrayal of toxic masculinity, since many people think that it's not a big problem today when it is, and it's important that people recognise that. I also liked how the idea of peer pressure is explored through the very toxic friendship that Anton has with Kehinde, Marcus and Caleb, and how after Anton left the group, the other two did as well. This goes to show that even though anyone can be a bad example to others, anyone can be a good one too. I would 100% recommend this book to secondary school ages, as it has a wide variety of characters that can relate to almost all of types of teenagers.

Kristina
Brooke Weston Book Busters

I liked the setting of the book (in London, where I lived until I was 10 years old). The book had slang and a lot of dialogue which makes you feel like you are involved in the story. The book explores how the friends that you have influence you. The main character, Anton, was respected as a 'bad kid' in the school but he started to change when he became friends with Matthew (who saved his life when Anton got stung by a bee). The book shows that even if you aren't doing your best, you can always turn around.

Matheo V
Ermysted’s

This book covers the themes of toxic masculinity and why gender equality is so important. I liked it because the funny characters helped lift the mood when the main character needed the most. My favourite character is Rochelle because of how she always stood up to toxic masculinity, and she really cared for her friends. In conclusion, I really enjoyed King of Nothing!

Asha
Beauchamp Champs 2025

King of Nothing is a book I genuinely got excited to read each night. Anton is extremely witty, there were multiple lines I had to read aloud just due to how funny they were, and his almost journey of redemption is handled as realistically as humanly possible. He doesn't immediately warm up to people he finds dorky or stupid (Matthew) instead desperately trying to get them to change, to be more like him. That's how a lot of people act in the real world: "Never say that again" , "Why are you like this?" , "That's just corny." This book highlights how wrong that sentiment is and how damaging it can be in a believable fashion that had me hooked. The book also tackles misogyny and "Alpha male" language head on through Kehinde, one of Anton's friends. Anton constantly describes him talking about the podcasts he watches and about how confusingly wrong he finds them as the book progresses. It's an issue that has been running rampant for a long time online, for so long that people see it more and more (Andrew Tate). I liked that the author put such an emphasis on it throughout without making it feel intrusive. It's a slow, realistic realisation that doesn't sugar-coat how harmful that sort of mindset is. I honestly just think the humour binds it all together though. Humour binds Anton and everyone he cares about together and if it wasn't so funny I don't think it would've hit me as hard as it did.

Alexander
THS Shadowing

I really enjoyed this book. I liked how Matthew unexpectedly saves Anton’s life in the woods and how Anton promises to help Matthew with Fernanda.

Jonatan
Bilbo Baggins’ Bookworms

King of Nothing is a very interesting and exciting book, it contains very big touches of humour, which enhances overall reader experience, and makes it more enjoyable. I would recommend this book very much. I would give this book 5 stars, however, I would give more if there wasn't a limit.

Ajay
Orpington Library Younger Teens

I'm not entirely sure how I felt about 'King of Nothing' as I felt it didn't give me the thrill of escaping to somewhere unknown. But I thought that it was well written and all the slang,although it's not my thing, helped to show each characters personality. I think it could have had a bit of a more unique and less obvious storyline. I thought the moral was very true about how, no matter how hard it is, we should try to do the right thing. I would give it 6.5/10.

Fliss
PGS Library

I liked this book because it showed how popularity isn't as important as being kind and making a difference to peoples lives. The main character really grew throughout the book as he became a better person and this changed how everyone reacted to him. I liked the way the characters developed because it felt like he was influenced at the start to be someone he wasn't and by the end he became a better version of himself. I loved this book, it had a good message and it was very relevant to my age group.

Eben
THS Shadowing

King of Nothing surprised me in a good way. At first, I thought it would just be another story about a school bully who gets into trouble, but it turned out to be a lot more than that. Anton starts off thinking he’s the king of Year 9—everyone’s scared of him, and he likes it that way. But when he gets in trouble and is forced to join this group called the Happy Campers, things start to shift. What really made the story interesting was Anton's friendship with Matthew, who’s basically the total opposite of him. Their relationship grows slowly and feels real, especially after Matthew saves Anton’s life. You can really see Anton start to question himself and everything he thought mattered—like being feared, looking cool, and having a reputation. The writing is easy to get into, but the message behind it is strong. It’s about friendship, change, and figuring out who you actually want to be—not just who everyone thinks you are. I think a lot of people our age could relate to it. Definitely worth a read.

Yumna
Beauchamp Champs 2025

This book is incredibly well-written, and addresses serious topics without the plot becoming heavy or arduous, which is extremely hard to do. The humour throughout is a lovely addition to the story, and complements the narrative that this is from the perspective of an ordinary boy from London. The characters are relatable to the audience, have detailed personalities and clearly represent the issues they were intended to address. As I was reading, I found that I could relate the book to myself and people around me at school, which is a massively important thing for a book like this. My only criticism is the lack of character description, however I understand that this is most likely due to the writing style, so is the correct decision for the book. Overall, a great book and a definite improvement on last year's 'Steady For This'.

Imogen
Carnegievores

King of Nothing was a really enjoyable read. It explores a teenager’s struggle to fit in and his fear of being seen as ‘different’. At first, Anton wants nothing to do with Matthew, someone who stands out. But after they’re paired for his mum’s community project, their friendship slowly sparks. I really liked how the story showed people can change. Anton makes mistakes—like when he lashes out at Matthew because of pressure from his old friends. When Matthew later saves Anton’s life from a bee sting, their bond deepens even more. He eventually chooses kindness over popularity, not wanting to turn out like his father. This story made me think how hard it is to stand up for what’s right, but also how rewarding it can be. 9/10.

Sebastian
Ermysted’s

I found the book really good and enjoyable. I found the book easy but also a little bit difficult because I found it difficult to make the book feel like it made sense with the slang language in it but that is mainly because I am not used to reading slang. A lot of the book I found really funny but also very sensitive to me and probably most other people. I found this book more for a teenager because it has more content that they would know more about. I would recommend this book for year 8 up to year 10 because I think they would understand it more and could compare it to them and give their prospective. It tells you about many relationships like the boy’s friendships but also the relationship with his family such as his mother and grandma and what she did when the boy left his grandma on the bus by herself and how he doesn’t talk about his father much. But overall, I think it is an amazing book and an enjoyable book for my age group.

A
Larkmead

This book is about a boy called Anton who, along with his friends, is one of the most feared students at school. He doesn’t care about getting into trouble - it’s all just a bit of fun to them. But when his mum decides to send him to a local activity group, everything begins to change. I really liked how the book explores the theme of toxic masculinity and shows that it can be overcome, especially when people take the time to understand themselves and others better. The topics it covers are really relevant and important in today’s society. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone aged 10 and over, especially if you enjoy realistic stories set in the present day that deal with serious issues in a relatable way.

Isabella
Rainbeau Readers

I really enjoyed this book .I teaches you that being the king of the school is not as fabulous as it sounds. Anton has a unexpected turn of events when a boy called Matthew changes his life. it teaches you a great many things.

Anastasia
OLSB Shadowers

Although I did not particularly enjoy Steady For This last year, I surprised myself by really enjoying this book. I found it much easier to read and rich in language than the 2024 nominee, and I loved the way it dealt with very heavy themes in an understandable yet sophisticated way. I also preferred the main character, as he was more aware of the issues he was experiencing by the end of the book, although this awareness did increase hugely throughout. The thoughtful way that Anton is portrayed also wills the reader to want happiness and safety, gripping me from start to finish, though the storyline was relatively predictable. Overall, I would definitely recommend as I really enjoyed.

Eve
St Kaths

King of Nothing tells the story of a boy called Anton who has made a couple of wrong decisions in his life. However, after the quiet kid in the class saved his life the most unlikely of friendships begin as Anton turns his life around.

Thomas
Southmoor Storywriters

King of Nothing was a very good book which focused on Anton, and his trials and tribulations. I like how this book takes the reader on a journey, from the first gang scene right through to the refuge's grand opening. The characters had sufficient depth and I felt like I could empathise with their various predicaments. The only issue is that this book is a little bit clichéd, and the plot is not very unique. However, I would certainly recommend this book to people, as I found it a delightful read

Manas
Colchester Royal Grammar School

10/10 liked how realistic the interactions between the characters were and how they used slang. It made the story seem more realistic. I would recommend this to 8-13 year-olds.

jaanavi
BAS READING CHAMPIONS

Surprising good book with really good characters and it was so sad when one of them died better than I expected but just not realistic.

Willow
CGS CAKE Club

Better version of steady for this 7/10

Connor R
Ermysted’s

Anton is living under the shadow of his father's crime and ends up becoming part of a group of bullies and delinquents who live by their reputations as King of the School. But Anton is more than he seems. Due to his mom's efforts to reform him, he joins a youth group and meets up with an old classmate who is anything but cool. Despite their differences, a friendship develops and Anton becomes interested in the youth club that they are renovating. Mixing with other people teaches him a new respect for society and he begins to change. But his old gang are not happy with the changes. This book scores high in enjoyment ratings. The characters are likable and the development of the plot is fast enough paced to keep readers engaged. Well worth a read.

A
Egglescliffe

I found this book very inspiring of how a bully could go into a friendly one. At first I wasn’t so sure but as I read more I started to really enjoy it. I just really love how mathew and antons relationship grew throughout the book at first sight he hated mathew but in the end became his best friend. Overall I’d rate this book really high.

Naomi T
Herts and Essex

I found this book very interesting and entertaining as not only was it funny due to the informal language, but also because it still covered an interesting topic that I had never read about before. One thing in particular that i found very, like, cool, I would say, is that we were able to hear Anton's thoughts. I found this fascinating because when I see people like Anton and Marcus, I often wonder what they think of themselves, of their actions, what their parents thought about them, and things like that, and this book allowed me to get an idea of the possible answers

Stefan
4Shadowers

King of nothing follows the life of a boy named Anton, who was a school bully and was forced to join an activity group where he befriends Matthew. This turns out to be an unlikely friendship as they are polar opposites. Overall, this book was very entertaining and I enjoyed it very much. I would recommend this to anyone looking to read an entertaining book.

Maryam Rafi
KECHG Shadowers

‘King Of Nothing’ by Nathanael Lessore is a novel about Anton, a teenager, who always gets into trouble with his friends. The school is his kingdom and he thinks he is the king. He also believes that fear is respect. Until one day, he meets Mathew at the Happy Campers. Anton realises finally what it really means to be a true friend and also recognises who his real friends are. I liked the author’s style of writing, similar to his other novel ‘Steady For This’, the story is very easy to read. N. Lessore has done an excellent job to show the perspective of a teenager. The book emphasises the enormous influence of friends and why one should choose friends wisely as they play a vital part in shaping your life.

Eric
Beauchamp Champs 2025

This book was really good overall. It was well written and I loved the unlikely friendship between Matthew and Anton. I thought Anton’s character was very relatable and I liked how the book addressed the issue of peer pressure and how it affects people. I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.

Annie
The Maynard School

I loved this book. I think what makes it so amazing is it challenges the image of masculinity and how someone can change just by being with the right people. It also showcases what many teenagers might feel and really connects with the audience reading the book. Overall , a really good book.

Ananya
Herts and Essex

I found the king of nothing a very interesting, engaging and reallycfunny. I loved Anton's sense of humor and found that it made me want to read on. I found the book eye opening to the feelings and lifestyle of someone from a 'cool' group and that someone scary really isn't that scary they are just putting on a bit of an act. I would definitely recommend this book to others!

Isla
PGHS Shadowers

I found that this was a very good read and found it extraordinarily enjoyable. It was both moving and inspiring at the same time. I would recommend this to any interested readers. Throughout the book you could really feel the story from Anton’s point of view and sense how he changed throughout it.

Zack
Crypt Bookworms

I loved last year's Steady for This by the same author and this book did not disappoint. Anton is used to being the King of the school just by the reputation of his absent father doing time. It is the troublesome Kehinde who gives him this reputation and encourages their 'bad boy' behaviour at school which leads them to being feared by other students. Anton's mother encourages him to participate in one of her projects as a result of his behaviour at school and he becomes involved with the Happy Campers' group that is helping to turn a disused church building into a women's refuge. Anton risks his 'bad boy' reputation by becoming friends with Matthew who is his complete opposite. As the story progresses Anton sees how toxic his friendship with Kehinde is and later as he meets his father after his release from prison he is exposed to his father's opinion and treatment of women. Strong female characters include Anton's mum and Nanna plus Rochelle, Grace and Fernanda from school. This might be a story but it is an accurate representation of the issue of toxic masculinity and school staff and youth workers should be encouraged to read it. 10/10!

Mrs. P
Cake a Book Club

King of Nothing is a fun and entertaining read with humour and a relatable voice. The protagonist’s journey is enjoyable, but the plot feels a bit shallow, and some themes could have been explored more deeply. While it’s engaging and light-hearted, it doesn’t leave a strong impact. I rate this book 3 out of 5

Eeshal
FOFF Girls

The king of nothing: This intriguing book on the mindset of teenagers nowadays is quite a page turner. This book is based on a character called Anton and he is a well respected figure due to his imprisoned father and his own violence amongst his peers. This leads to him also getting quite a few detentions meaning that he gets his wifi unfortunately blocked by his mum. To regain it he must help out his mum with her job at little campers... He meets a shy person who goes to the same school and these meetings were his hamartia.

Aarnav
Bookwizards

I found this interesting in places but not in other places.Overall, I really enjoyed this book but I do not think it should win the Carnegies.

Genevieve
Beauchamp Champs 2025

PLOT SUMMARY: This book was about a teenage boy named Anton. He and his friends ruled the school until one day when the looser( named Matthew) in the class saved his life in a forest, Anton's life changed forever... OPINION: The book was a spectacular read and it made me so intrigued to read more. Nathanael Lessore set out the story amazingly and gave the characters their own unique self.

Meghna
Beauchamp Champs 2025

It makes you bond with all the characters and shows you that even in the face hardship you can still pull through and make everything work out just fine. I found the book easy to read and it flowed well, I finished it really quickly and I would read more books written by Nathanael Lessore.

Toby
SGS Eclipse

This book was a good read to see life from different angles. From the charactors to the emotions I thought this book was well put together. However, I think the ending could have been a bit slower paced. It was quite confusing.

Livie
St Kaths

The King of Nothing. Described by one word: Fantastic. I read this book in about 1 or 2 weeks and engaged with it really well. The story of Anton and his perdicaments is expressed perfectly for ages 11+. My reasoning for thinking this is because it shows a lot of character using slang words such as: Fam, Bruv, shout-out etc. I think it shows that life is tough expressing emotions of greiving fear anger and more. I think this will help people know that high school is hard. It was an amazing story from the start. This is an amazing book to read! I loved this book jenurally in a way emotionally, I love stepping into somebody shoes in books, good job nathael! This book taught me lots of things ( women arent objects, choose your kind...) but yhe main thing: Friendship is key in life.

Luca
The WH shadowers

This book accurately depicts the positive character development of the protagonist, whilst exploring a multitude of sensitive topics, such as toxic masculinity and sexism. This enjoyable, coming-of-age story is a perfect read for young adults who are seeking a entertaining and enthralling read.

Aryanna
OLSB Shadowers

Extremely good book I have really enjoyed it so far

Ryan
TGS Book Group

Hanzalah
Ermysted’s

This book was a brilliant read. It deals well with themes of toxic masculinity, and shows how much of an effect having a "reputation" can have on teenagers. Although I found it hard to get into the flow of reading it at the beginning due to the amount of slang language used, I got past that quickly and grew to love it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested!

Lara
Presdales Carnegies Reading Group

I liked this book because it had an interesting view of high school which I hadn't considered before. The book is about a boy who is meant to be one of the "cool kids" who are always disruptive and rude but who is actually a nice person. Although he hasn't had an easy life he is happy to make friends with less "cool" characters. He is a quite inspiring person who many people could learn from. The story is quite funny and engaging and therefore I would recommend this book for KS3 just like Nathanael Lessore's other book Steady For This.

Henry
SGS Eclipse

I found ‘King Of Nothing’ a very interesting read. It's about a boy called Anton who thinks of himself as king of the school until he suddenly finds a weird friendship with the loser Mathew after joining a cringy club because of his mum. Anton realizes that respect and fear are completely different things and turns a new leaf. My favourite character was Mathew because of his bubbly personality and goal to make everybody happy. The book had a brilliant plot and got me on the edge of my seat at some points. I particularly liked how the author added in slang so it connects with younger audiences and makes the book feel more realistic. I really liked this book I would rate it a 9/10

Philippa
The John Mason Shadowers

So far this is my favourite Carnegie book as it has a realistic problem that some people may experience.

hasan i
Ermysted’s

It was a fabulous book which shows how he changed into a better person and found his best friend and to just be yourself.

ethan v
Ermysted’s

The King of Nothing is a brilliant book about a teenager called Anton who isn't exactly a model student. In fact he's one of the worst kids in the school but that all changes when he meets Matthew. The book starts when Anton is goofing around in his classes, as usual, and gets a detention. When he gets home his mum is not happy and she forces him to sign up for a youth club called "the Happy Campers". They are the polar opposite to who he would usually hang out with. Whereas his friends like talking about football and girls, the Happy Campers enjoy picking berries and singing. To Anton's horror, when he joins the Happy Campers he finds that Matthew, a boy he has picked on in the past, is actually a member. The story takes an unexpected turn when Anton is stung by a bee and Matthew jumps into action and promptly saves Anton's life. Gradually they become friends and Anton has to make the choice between being friends with Matthew who he genuinely feels happy being around or maintaining his reputation at school. I absolutely love this book because it is very funny but at the same time features very deep and serious topics like sexism and toxic masculinity. Even though Anton has had a rough start to his life with his dad being in prison and him being friends with controlling bullies, the book shows everyone that anyone can change. I really loved this message in the book because it is really inspiring. The book could have been very dark and said how Anton had no future but instead the author chose to say how Anton became a better person. For those reasons, the King of Nothing is a great book and I will definitely read it again in the future.

Tristan
Europa Champs

Overall, the book is an enjoyable read, and portrays the real life that a person with a reputation must face. It shows how when in a public setting or not, you can never show the true side of you when you have a reputation. But throughout the book, the overall theme of deception is slowly unravelled, and the book shows how just being "cool" and "popular" are not the most important things in life, even if they may seems like so to a teenager. The characters are all very well explained, and overall I would recommend the book to others.

Tejas
Colchester Royal Grammar School

I loved reading this book, it was very engrossing and I had my nose in it for the whole weekend. I loved how this book carries themes of masculinity/ toxic masculinity, changing ways, and unlikely friendship. It made me laugh and cry, and both at the same time. This book definitely deserves more recognition.

Nancy
Wyedean School

This book was really heart-warming. It follows the main character Anton navigate his way through his school life with his so called friends. After his mum forced him to go to her St Lukes project he finds the true meaning of life and makes friends with many new people who he had never dreamed of even being associated with. Anton realizes it is better having people like you than scared of you. Near the end I was confused when he started hanging around with Kehinde again but was so pleased when he beat up Kehinde to become friends with Mathew and save his mums project. Overall it was a gripping story and my rating would be 9/10

Conor D
Ermysted’s

The book was an emotional ride that really made me feel as though I really was there. from the start I could tell that the book was going to be a great read. At the start Anton was punished for getting into a fight at his school, his consequence was that he had to go on a camping trip called the Happy Campers. later on he finds out that his 'nerdy' best friend is in grave danger, can he get there in time before his friend could get in even more dangerous circumstances.......

Joshua R
Ermysted’s

I think this is a really good book. At the start, I think it was a bad, but by the end, it was so good! It was nice that he became a popular and clever kid because he was friends with the NERD!! :D I rate this book 4.5 out of 5

Tasmeia
FOFF Girls

Anton is the king of the playground. He has respect and honour so life is good for him. His friends are Kehinde, Marcos and Caleb. His Mum keeps on telling him to get good friends and to get out of this gang but this is his people. He then has a big impact upon him when his Mum takes his internet away which means he can't play/watch the things he want. He then has to join these Happy Campers because his Mum made him join which is super annoying. All the Happy Campers are super strange and one of them is from his school Mathew. He goes with Mathew and the Happy Campers on a trip which changes how he thinks about these people but when he gets home from the trip he starts to wonder about the person who gave him respect and honour at this school his Father...

Zakariya
Ermysted’s

This book was very entertaining with several aspects of it including how reputations don't always mean their important and how people learn over time and over long periods this book highlights how friendship is better than Popularity

Vicky
SHS On The Same Page

I would give the book a 7-8 out of 10 it has strong language and yet has gentle scenes its perfect for people who like violence but also like comedy and strong friendships and relationships. I liked the book because it relates to secondary school students and young men which is perfect for around that age level.

Ethan
Kingdown

The King of Nothing is about a boy called Anton and he is currently the King of his school with his friend group/gang and is supposedly living his best life. But this is all about to change when his mum gets on his nerves so his reputation is about to hit a downfall. Now his mum is going to give him punishments but these punishments may well turn his life around. I quite like the book as it involved a lot about school life and how a 'gangster' can become better through unexpected ways.

Dhinesh
SGS Eclipse

Tryphena
Lionheart25

I didn't end up finishing this book. I personally didn't enjoy the way it was written. Not a bad book at all, I just personally didn't enjoy the story.

Ria
St Kaths

This book, like last years entry by the same author, actually made me laugh out loud in places. Anton is a troubled boy, in with the wrong crowd. His single mum and grandma try their best to keep him on the straight and narrow. When Anton gets into big trouble at school, his mum forces him to help out on a community project she is involved with. The school 'nerd', Matthew, who Anton and his gang bully, volunteers at the community project, and they form an unlikely friendship. It is sad in places, funny in places, and is about a troubled boy trying his best to be a better person! Overall, I enjoyed the story. Definitely deserves a spot on the library shelves, but not my favourite book of the shortlist. I rate it 3.5 out of 5.

Mrs Allsopp
FOFF Girls

it was an ok book but I had trouble getting into the book as the flow of the writing kept getting disrupted by the slang language references and short chapters

william
OSSMAORATORS

The book was okay, I found the story slow and I found it difficult to get into and the story in the beginning wasn't as gripping, but it gets better throughout the book. I liked the language used as it connects with younger audiences

Tiegan
OSSMAORATORS

King of Nothing Review: Stars= 4.7 Review- At the start of this book, Anton (the antagonist) enjoys being at the top of his school, and earns the ‘respect’ of everyone with his group of friends. However, when his mum signs him up for the Happy Campers group and the least popular kid in his class saves his life, Anton begins to really think about what people really think of him and what he does. I love the way that this book follows Anton’s story as he tries to re-evaluate what people believe he’s like and makes many new friends on the way. The story has an impactful message that is delivered in Anton’s voice in gripping paragraphs. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is considering reading it.

Isabel
Crypt Bookworms

King of nothing is a teen comedy with a hint of romance near the end. When Anton gets his internet taken off him his mother sends him to Happy Campers where the biggest loser in his class saves his life using an Epipen. They become friends. What I really liked about the book is that Anton changes from a bully to a kind person and it teaches people about women's rights. What I didn't like about the book is that there was some slang I couldn't understand but overall it was a good book. I would recommend it to people who can understand slang and teens. I think that the meaning behind it is that people who want to change can.

Willow
Book Squad

To be honest I wasn't expecting such a book but the more I read the more heartwarming I felt that Anton was pressured into being the king of the school to save his reputation when he was younger. I would give this book to a year 7 and 8 students. I loved when I found out that Anton loved art - I was over joyed, This made it easy for him to paint lovely pictures. I think this made it easier for when Anton had to stand up against his father for speaking bad about his mum. I wouldn't be able to tell you the Genre, because there are so many in the book. As well as this, the GCSC year is coming up for him and there are two additional options he has to pick for his future, whilst saving St.Lukes and his new freindships.

Laura
Book Squad

This book was so fabulous to read. It shows that your reputation is not very important and sometimes losing your reputation can mean that you can have true friends. Also, it shows that you will only realise how much you really love a person after they are gone.

Angela
Herts and Essex

The book “King of Nothing” was a heart warming novel. It followed the main character Anton as he navigates his school life with a group of so called friends. He discovers the true meaning of life and meets many new people along the way who he had never expected to become his friends. He realises that having people scared of him was not as good as having people like him. The actual story of the book was amazing. It had an original idea, was very gripping, had an excellent understanding of themes and situations, including finding your way out of the grief/anger of losing a family member. There was also a credible ending, with it matching up perfectly with the rest of the book. A criticism is the use of slang. It puts the reader perfectly in the shoes of Anton but it would be hard for the older population to understand. This is because most of the slang terms are ones used today and some older people who wished to read the book might not understand what he was trying to get across.

Alice
Diary of a Wally Kid

King of Nothing was a wonderful book and I couldn't wait to finish it. It constantly kept me wanting to read it and I was so excited to finish and know how it ends but at the same time disappointed that the funny commentary and amazing three dimensional characters were gone until I decide to reread it which I'm sure I will. This was such a good book and none of the characters I found were flat which I do with quite a few books. My personal favourites were Grandma and Anton himself and loved the character development that Anton went though. Overall, my experience reading this book was wonderful and I will never forget the range of emotions this book made me have.

Megan
STAGS Shadowers

I think this is a really good book. Standing up for yourself and your opinions is something we should all be able to do - not just because of what our friends think. I love how this book feels so relatable and delivers an important message about identity and the kind of person you want to be. I also think the choice to have Anton’s dad in prison is really smart because it highlights how learning from your own or other people’s mistakes can help shape your decisions in life. At first, I didn’t expect this to be one of the best books I’ve read, but it completely proved me wrong. The way the characters' lives intertwine makes the story so engaging, and the theme of friendship is both powerful and heartwarming.

Charlotte
Rainbeau Readers

King of Nothing is about a troublesome boy in Y9 called Anton in a South London secondary school. He and his friends (or mandem) are the kings of Y9 with their imposing reputations. Anton’s ‘rep’ is because of his dad- behind bars. The mandem is rude in lessons, disrespectful and they care only about their reputation. After Anton gets into serious trouble in school, his mum makes him go to a camp on Saturdays, called Happy Campers. Just as his luck would have it, the weird loser called Matthew from school is there too, and Anton worries about how long his reputation will last; will Matthew tell? He ends up going on an eventful camping trip with him and forms a new friendship with him, but he can’t be friends with Matthew and the mandem, so he has to make a choice- but the rough boys of his mandem are unpredictable and not a stranger to giving beatings to get their way. This is a book that really makes you think about our world and the people in it- I think Lessore is trying to address the world’s issues in the book. It mainly touches on anti-feminist theories and problems with patriarchy, and addresses them well, as Anton learns about them and questions what he thinks is right. He changes to challenge them and shows that anyone can become a better person if they are given the chance, time, and helpful nudge in the right direction. I would give this book a 9/10 rating, as it worded, written and thought through well, and on the whole is a very good story with lots of ideas. I think people 11 or over would really enjoy it.

Cora
SHSK Shadowers

I did not think I would enjoy this book as much as I did. Yes, the language is often unserious and "fam" is repeated quite a few times.. but the plot, characters were humorous and heart-warming. Each character had flaws but even the ones you are supposed to dislike, you could understand and felt real. The messages in this book are important; harder themes like grief and toxic masculinity were handled well, and are especially topical right now. I enjoyed watching Anton's development and watching his relationships with his friends and family change. A sincere and genuine book that can be read in a day.

Erica
Sutton Shadows

Okay, hands up, I hated the book, first couple of dozen pages in. Anton seemed shallow, I guy I really couldn't get on board with, and it seemed like it was really going to be an effort pushing myself through page after page. But Anton matured, and as the character softened, so did my opinion toward him. His views grew more flexible, on the people around him and on the future. The book softens too - the way the book's tone makes it appear like it's a direct passage to Anton's thoughts makes his growth all the more clear, showing almost nothing is beyond redemption. (Still not so hopeful about Treacle Town, though. Hoping it proves me wrong.)

Hanzalah
Ermysted’s

This book was unique and had a flair and sweetness that many other books do not have, the character change was cunning and very enjoyable, watching the young Anton turn from a young gang boy to a wholesome individual. All the characters were very well placed and constructed. However, there was a slight undertone of repetition and was relatively predictable. It is a good book and I was pleased reading though.

Arnold
TBGS Readers

King of Nothing is an amazing book which I found really realistic. Last year, I gave Steady for this (also by Nathanael Lessore) a good review but I think that King of Nothing is better. The characters were all very good and p was the story line. My favourite bit was how Anton narrates with some funny analogies. A good ending. One of the best books I've ever read!

Aidan
Ermysted’s

I haven’t quite finished it, but when I tell you I screamed when this book was announced. I really loved Steady For This last year and I was so excited to read this. What I’ve read so far is amazing and I can’t wait to finish it. I love how it reflects real life issues of toxic masculinity, while integrating it with friendships and being who you are. I also like how Anton says that if someone told his mum she had to wear makeup, or have her boyfriend’s permission to leave the house he’d “take the guy’s head off”. I swear this book was written with people like me in mind because I was smiling uncontrollably when Matthew asked if he liked Wicked the musical. It’s my favourite musical and I’m going to see it in the Easter holidays. Anyway, really great book so far.

Pip
Herts and Essex

I really like this book because. I really like all the plots in this story and all the characters and how they’re shown, that is what i think that brings out the personality in this book. I also think that this not only tells a story but can give us some life lessons as well. Like treat people the way you want to be treated and being cool doesn’t mean it’s good. And as the book says who would want to be king off nothing.

Eva c
Herts and Essex

ANTON AND HIS FRIENDS ARE THE KINGS OF YEAR 9! They're used to ruling the school and Anton wears the crown. The other kids run away when he's about but that's the way he wants it - he's got a reputation to live up to that's the way he likes it . I would rate this 4 stars ****

Mahek
QEGS CARNEGIE BOOK CLUB

King of Nothing is a laugh out loud novel concerning women’s rights and what it means to be a man. It includes witty characters such as Rochelle and Grandma. I loved reading about the unlikely friendships and funny misadventures of Anton and Matthew at the happy campers and beyond! It had a slow start but completely made up for it by the end. 8/10

Elijah
VISTA Academy

I really enjoyed this book. When the coolest boy in school, Anton, gets saved by the 'geeky' kid in a camping trip he's been forced into, Anton starts to find out it's not all about being cool. The story plot was really interesting, and I loved the character development. It had scenes with quick and slow action, and having it set in Anton's perspective made it even more interesting. A mix of school life and friendship, the characters were written really well. There are some slang words I didn't fully understand, so the language could have been more inclusive, but it fits his character and makes a reasonable amount of sense, so I could follow the plot. I really enjoyed this book.

Lettie
Diary of a Wally Kid

King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore is a wonderful book about growing up and realising your mistakes that you made in the past. The story follows a boy called Anton who rules his school with his friends; they are teasing their classmates and command over all the youngest. However, when Anton's mum puts him into the camping group for children, he has to make friends with the biggest loser, or as he and his friends think so, Matthew. Through the story, Anton realises what real friendship is and scaring others doesn't gain their respect. A heart-warming story about reflecting on your mistakes.

Jamilya
St Catherine’s Carnegies

This book is a 10/10! It is an eye opening book about finding out what really matters and sometimes people are not what they seem. Sometimes you need a wake up call to figure out what is really important. I like this book because it is a journey of finding out what life is really about. If you like realism, masculinity and plot twists then this book is definitely for you.

Jenica
St Catherine’s Carnegies

I LOVED King of Nothing. At first, the slang made it really hard to read and I didn't really understand it - but as the story progressed I realised the story was about more than just a boy in a gang. This story is about finding your people, loss, and putting yourself before other's opinions. The main character , Anton lives with just his mum and his nanna. 9.5 / 10.

Holly
Chiswick Carnegie

This book is about a boy in year 9 who is trying to find out who he really is and who his real friends are. I really enjoyed this book as it was really funny and had a good message about how to treat women and also to be yourself. However the colloquial language makes it slightly harder to understand.

Lily
Chiswick Carnegie

This book makes me look at my future and how people can easily be influenced by others and can be told to do the wrong things. I like how Anton looked back on his mistakes. His friendship can also be a lesson too.

Suheyla
Chiswick Carnegie

I think this book was very good. I thought Anton was funny and he was definitely likeable to me. It was easy to read because of the jokes and how they used modern language so it really felt like Anton was realistic. I thought it really drew you in, because Anton was hilarious and I really enjoyed Matthew's uniqueness. I think it dealt with serious issues in a good manner: it kept it funny but did deal well with the issues.

Iris
Skipton Shadows

This book was amazing! I loved how the book was about change, something that people may struggle with a lot. It's comical and almost like it's based on a real story. It helps us to understand different people from different societies and backgrounds. There may not be as much visual description but the written style is readable and the pace gives the reader space to think about the book and to further reflect on them. The book is about the 'king' of the school and his group of friends who are all struggling with something. But then all things go down hill and he's stuck in a mess, between friendship and title, which one will he choose?

Muqaddas
Skipton Shadows

I really liked this book because of the plot and of how much action there was. I also liked the atmosphere the book made because I felt I was there and experienced it all. I enjoy the fact that you can probably relate to the main part of the story. I also enjoyed the fact that you don't stay on one thing for more than a few chapters. Because it moves about so much, it keeps the story flowing and not jamming up the story.

Charlotte
Skipton Shadows

I enjoyed the book and think it was quite a fun and easy read. I think the author did a great job with this book because a different book he had written I didn't enjoy as much so I was worried I wouldn't like this book but it was actually really good and I was immersed in it and was disappointed when I finished it. I recommend it to everyone!

Amelia M
Skipton Shadows

It was a great story was extremely funny and was amazing to read. The book was long but is an easy read. i really liked that the author used slang terms and words that we might know through how we speak to our group of friends. I loved how Anton changed his view on what it is to be a friend and that he discovered a different side of himself. This book has a real meaning of what it is to be a god person and also that people can change if they want to. The book also shows that Anton's family plays a large part in his journey and I think it's important for us to read about the importance of family. I would recommend this book to friends because of how amazing it is.

Jayden-James
The WH shadowers

Really funny. I loved the way it played out. Can't wait to read it again.

Sienna
Bacon and Eggs Literary Society

Such a great book. Despite the confusing use of slang, it’s a really good book. It is basically about a boy called Anton who starts to realise that his friends are a really bad influence on him. I think it was quite a heart-breaking at times as you see it a lot nowadays. Though if there is one thing I’ve learnt from this book: it is that it’s never too late to change.

Twalumba
County Shadows

It's a very good book because it shows that even kids that might be strange can have a better heart than kids who are socially cool. Its shown when Kelhinde sets the project that he had been working on on fire. True friends wouldn't do things like that and is revealed that Matthew would even risk his life for him. Overall I loved this book and the slang!

Tami
Bogle’s Book Worms

I loved it! The jokes are really funny, and combines with the writing style to make it really enjoyable to read! all the characters are really well done, and feel like real people. The way he develops over the course of the story is very well done, so it doesn't feel forced, and it is inspiring to see how he develops into a better person. I think the message it puts across, to treat women equally, is very important, and displayed powerfully. This probably one of my favourites so far!

Edward L
Ermysted’s

Simrah
Lionheart25

The fiction novel King Of Nothing written by Nathanael Lessore is based on boy who comes across as a roadman at first, called Anton. He is the son to a mother referred to as miss charles and to a father is no longer in the outside world. Anton lives with his mother and nanna and is king of year 9 and pretty much the whole school, so no one dares to mess with him knowing who his father is. Anton likes to keep this reputation with the MANDEM[his whole gang of friends who hangs around with at school, after causing chaos Anton and his mates are in the detention room after school. Shortly after his arrival home his mum is disappointed with her sons actions so cuts his internet for a whole month, However Anton is not happy with this consequence so he speaks to his mother to see what he can do to get internet, His mother tells him that he must join the happy campers and if he sticks to it she will consider giving his internet back so Anton eventually agrees. the following Wednesday is his first meeting with the campers where he meets this loser/loner from his school, Anton isnt bothered about making friends because it might ruin his reputation. when he goes on a camping trip he nearly dies but luckily Mathew was there to save his life. when he gets home and gets his wifi back,his mother gives him a warning and news that his father has been released from prison. Anton and Mathew later on become mates and go on a double date with Fernanda being Mathews date and Rochelle being Antons date. The following week Antons nanna dies from internal bleeding.... I really liked the book when i got into it because it got me on suspense continuously wondering what would happen next. I believe that this book has a true moral to it saying that anyone can change to who they want to be no matter what you have done in the past.

Kian
QKA Shadowers

Dealing with real issues in a comedic and thought-provoking way makes this a fantastic read. Anton is a bully and making friends with Matthew is not good for his reputation. Lessore uses their budding friendship to explore serious and hard-hitting issues, particularly misogynistic attitudes towards women and girls. The book delves into the troublesome teenage years and looks at the different ways Anton is influenced by the people close to him. The most important message of the novel is that ‘people who want to change can change’.

Mrs Whittaker
The WH shadowers

I must admit, I didn't think I was going to enjoy this book, it just wasn't my sort of read, but I was pleasantly surprised. It was like a coming of age book with Anton having to deal with his identity, who his true friends are and his own masculinity. It is funny, sensitive, sad, happy and all done in a thought provoking way. A great book. 9/10

Mrs Symon
Plumites

I loved this book. It shows how people that seem big and tough on the outside actually share the same emotions as you and can be just as scared or anxious or caring as the next person. The book also shows that anyone can change no matter their past actions or deeds and how unlikely relationships can stike about this change.

Wilf
St Kaths

4 stars. This book was exciting and was filled with several twists and turns. I enjoyed how it talked about several difficult themes such as prejudice against women and how different people have different views on it due to their upbringing. It mirrors reality in a realistic way which is in stark contrast to some other books which deal with strong issues and prejudice were they shy away from how this impacts real people in the real world every day.

Bronte
Crypt Bookworms

I read the book called King of Nothing, written by Nathaneal Lessore. It is a novel about a boy called Anton’s journey from “the king of the school” to a nice friendly boy, who has found his passion in art. Anton is in secondary school, acting cool and succeeding in intimidating the younger students who perhaps he might deem as “nerdy”. He is a popular boy with many friends. These include Caleb, Kehinde and Marcus. After he keeps getting in trouble at school and his grades keep dropping, his mum took away his Wi-Fi. Not only that but she sends him on a summer camping trip with her friends from this project from the community and his nightmare: a boy called Mathew. Somehow, they make friends, and Anton decides to help with the project. Eventually, his friends find out and attack Mathew, Anton defends him and they, stay best friends forever.

zack wf
Ermysted’s

I really enjoyed this book as it made me think about school and how important it is to make sure you choose your friends wisely , as they could make you do things you know isn't right. Another reason why I found it interesting was because of the humour in the book as it made me laugh several times. Overall , I really liked this book and bet you would too.

Malaika
Fiction Addiction

King of nothing is an excellent book based on friendship and school life. This book is about a boy called Anton who thinks he is living his best life as king of the school with his friends, Kehinde, Caleb and Marcus known as the Manden, where they are mean to the teachers, mess around and think everyone respects them. His mum doesn’t like the way he acts at school though and takes away his internet and makes him go to a club called Happy Campers where he sees Matthew, who Anton thinks is one of the biggest losers in class. When he goes on a camp for the weekend Anton gets lost berry picking, and he gets stung by a bee but Matthew saves him with an EpiPen, and they become friends. This book is thoughtful as it shows how Anton changes around Matthew and by going to Happy Campers as you see him trying to become a better person. My favourite character was Rochelle because she looks after Matthew and has his back but also, she is clever and doesn’t judge Anton for his past and instead cares about who he is now. Plus, she is a very kind person who tries to help people. However, I also liked Matthew because he always sees the good things in the world and although I found him irritating at the start, he always means well. Overall, I loved this book and would rate it for the ages 10-14 and an 8.5/10.

Annabelle
The Fitzharrys Shadows

A really good book showing the struggle of how to stand up against your friends and how to overcome misogyny.

Finn
St Kaths

Having not read Steady For this last year and only going off others opinions, I expected King of Nothing to be a boring read that I wanted to get out of the way. This however was not the case. This book is full of laughs while showing the importance of friendship over physical strength and that people will always have different opinions of you depending on how they know you. The only thing that was bad about King of Nothing is the over exaggerated slang in Anton’s thought, especially the word ‘fam’ in every other sentence. I rate this book 4.5 out of 5.

Felix C
Ermysted’s

Many people want to be the most popular in their class, by trying to get laughs out of their friends, but this book shows that being the most popular isn't always as great as it seems. Sometimes it's better to have friends who you can rely on and trust rather than "friends" who you have a laugh with and get into trouble with. Anton realises this, and he finds who his true friends are, and aren't, after his Nanna dies, and when the school finds out how he has been hanging out with Matthew, a geeky boy, and his "mandem" leave him. I like this book as it shows how people can change to become better and the dangers of peer pressure. It also demonstrates how you only know your true friends when you face hurdles in life and they stand by you, and being the "King of the School" isn't always the best thing to be. The book also teaches how perseverance is very important - Anton faces many hurdles - like Nanna dying and his mum's project being trashed and burnt - but he keeps going. I would rate it 8.5/10.

Aashaz Z.
Ermysted’s

I thought that this book was alright as I liked the ways that it showed deep messages while keeping it light hearted. I didn't really find it very funny a lot of the time but I did like the ways you got to know the characters better. Another thing that I liked is that even when I thought the book wasn't really moving on, it still made me want to read more

Robin
Ermysted’s

While this book was definitely an improvement from Nathanael Lessore's previous book, Steady for this, it still did not please me. I laughed at nothing, the characters annoyed me, and while reading the book, I was just counting down the pages waiting for it to end. By no means is it a bad book, it just wasn't for me.

Frankie
OP No Shelf Control

After just 4 days, I have finished reading 'King of Nothing'. I have found it exciting and funny, and after each reading session, I always find myself wanting to read even more, it can be considered slow at first by some, but the whole story is worth just a small wait. It pulls me in and the characters are amazingly written, I love the writer's writing style as it makes me laugh, I definitely recommend and think its an amazing read!

Nina
Reepham Readers

This is an amazing book and I am thoroughly enjoying it. It is about a boy called Anton and he is miss behaving and getting lots of detentions. Therefore his mum is worried about his behavior and sends him to a group called Happy Campers (like scouts). He hates it! Even worse he has to be with one of the losers in his primary school class and he hates him but Mathew ( the one from his class ) insists on them being together. Eventually the group has a weekend of camping and his mum forces him to go where he has to spend a weekend in a 2 man tent with Mathew. When the group goes on an adventure Mathew walks slowly and ends up being far behind with Anton. Suddenly Mathew passes out when he gets a cut on his leg which makes Anton panics however he comeback round within 30 seconds. Later Anton gets stung by a bee and has a server allergic reaction and passes out so Mathew uses an EpiPen and saves his life. This is as far as I have read so far and am still loving it.

James
SHSCC_Readers!

This book has an amazing story that takes you on a terrifyingly good rollercoaster of emotions. This book is great and I would recommend it to everyone in Carnegie.

Rhys
SHSCC_Readers!

First when I was reading it, i thought i wouldn't like it, because I didn't like his last book, steady for this. However, this book was very enjoyable. My only issue is how the main character talks. NO ONE TALKS LIKE THAT!!! Other than that, it was very good. 8/10

Elliott.H
Ermysted’s

A boy named Anton is the king of year 9. He is a bad boy of South London Secondary school, feared and respected because his dad is inside. But his mom makes him Join the Happy Campers, an activity group, he made friends with a boy named Matthew, a loser in the school. I really enjoyed reading this book because it made me really happy, and I would also recommend this book to my friends.

Dhiya
QKA Shadowers

I love how funny this book was and heartwarming at the same time.I also liked how Mathews and Anton friendship grew.

Amelie
PGHS Shadowers

I’d rate King of Nothing a 9/10. It was a very good read—funny and entertaining throughout. I also read the first book last year, and this one lived up to it, keeping the same great humor and engaging story. The characters were enjoyable, and the writing style made it easy to get into. Overall, a great book that I’d definitely recommend!

Bassit
Ermysted’s

The book was a nice blend of funny humor and it touched some tough subjects this book also has some good character development and I really felt Antons change as a person.

Alexander
Booky Wookies

This was brilliant and should be in every secondary school library in the UK and beyond! Very funny, heartwarming, and an excellent takedown of toxic masculinity with stellar character development.

mathew
Booky Wookies

I really enjoyed this book, it had the perfect mix of funny moments, but also very well conveyed emotions, such as when Nanna died. The interactions and Evolution of Anton as he realises that he does not need to be the king of the school is very well written, and overall, i really enjoyed this book, and would definitely recommend it.

Luke
Booky Wookies

A beautiful story about friendship, growth and finding ones personal compass.

Plum
St Kaths

Very informative and gritty compared to his book on last year's shortlist 'Steady for This'

Frederic
Brooke Weston Book Busters

The book was good and it showed that different friends can lead to a different pathway and career. It can inspire others to choose a pathway that will lead them to success. However, I believe this book could've been better if it was more formal and less colloquial.

matt
Brooke Weston Book Busters

In my opinion, this book will be hard to top. Anton, Nanna and Matthew never failed to make me laugh! It really defined the characters of everyone in the book. It also taught a valuable lesson because it talks about the effects of peer pressure and bad influences. The author made me feel for characters like Anton and Matthew, and it made me despise for Kehinde, Caleb and Marcus. 9.5/10

William B
Ermysted’s

I thought this book ( similar to "steady for this" last year ) was a bit annoying with its use of slang but I think it did gradually get better after around chapter 4. I also thought that the author did a great job in displaying the emotions when the Grandma died. I would give it a 4.5/5!

Ben P
Ermysted’s

this is a brilliant book which shows shows good morals and how people develop whilst also being a funny read 10/10 I loved it.

alfie c
Ermysted’s

l really liked this book because it talks about the effects of peer pressure and bad influences. I also liked it because it talks about Anton when he's with bad influences and good influences and the difference is quite clear.

Abigail
St Cath’s Shadowing

Nathanael Lessore does an excellent job in speaking to the masses of today about a prevalent issue of today's society - toxic masculinity. He creates a powerful lens using his perspective of the main character, Anton, that compels readers to consider the demands placed on men: the constant need to "man up." The novel centres on Anton's internal conflict as he tries to balance being true to himself and upholding his reputation that society has deemed necessary for survival. Slowly but surely, he begins to see the cracks of this notion, and he's soon forced to choose. Will Anton follow his heart, or will he succumb to the weight of societal expectations? Turn the page and start this journey.

Olamiposi
St Cath’s Shadowing

Terrific Tale In my opinion this was a great story and a important life lesson, which was you shouldn't be defined by other people (peer pressure), and instead make your own choices define yourself. This book was an absolute page turner which made me want to read more. The author made me feel for Anton who was defined by what his dad did. I'd recommend it for secondary school kids because it teaches how you should be yourself and not be a follower.

Edmund W
Ermysted’s

Funny and deep. Delves deep into the pressures of friendship and reputations.

Arlo
Crypt Bookworms

I really enjoyed this book . I was a bit sceptical at first because I don't tend to like these sorts of books , however I was in for a surprise . This book took me on a roller coaster of emotion and taught me many life lessons , such as , appreciate the people who love you and support you and to not take the wrong path just because it might be easier . Overall , this was a great book full of friendship , loss , family and finding yourself . It was also very funny . Not many books succeed in making me laugh out loud but this book succeeded many times over ! As a final score I would give it a 4.5 / 5 .

Holly H
VISTA Academy

I read King of Nothing after enjoying Steady for This which is also a novel written by Nathanael Lessore, who in my opinion is a fantastic author! King of Nothing felt quite nostalgic for me as the book centres around the lives of teenagers. It also describes the trouble with gangs and violence. I also really like the way Anton unexpectedly befriends Matthew. What will be his crowning glory? Read the book to find out! I recommend King of Nothing for all readers. 10/10

Wensen
SGS Eclipse

King Of Nothing is a fantastic book, it has such a funny, sarcastic plot. I love this book, my rating is 9/10. It is readable, witty and funny. It does have some minor violence in it but it is all part of the theme/genre, crime and thriller. My overall judgement is that I absolutely love this book, it is amazing!

Afreen
Skipton Shadows

This book was a beautiful experience. It pulled me in like a riptide and made me forget I was reading. It is beautiful in a way mere ink on paper has no right to be. It is real, raw, and powerful: like the waves of the ocean. This book was, quite simply, amazing. Reading this book was a beautiful feeling. Anton's charcter development, Matthew's gradual trust, etc. was a beautiful journey I am to have been a part of. Nathaniel Lessore's writing is legendary and his books are exemplary. I would recommend it to anyone in a heartbeat. 10/10.

Edlin
QKA Shadowers

King of Nothing

Nathanael Lessore

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