Epsomian Shortlist Shadowers

The Boy I Love
The Boy I Love is a heart-wrenching novel set in 1916 during the fighting on the Western Front. It follows the relationship between Stephen Wraxhall and Danny McCormick as they develop feelings for one another but are forced to keep their love a secret because, at the time, same-sex relationships were illegal. I found the book deeply moving and mournful, particularly because several characters die throughout the story. However, the ending offers a sense of hope for a future in which LGBTQ+ people can live openly and be accepted. I would rate this book 3.5 stars. While I enjoyed reading it, I felt that the story was quite slow-paced at times.

Georgina

Twenty Four Seconds from Now
24 seconds from now is a story that explores healthy boundaries and coming of age in a humorous way. The main characters, Neon and Aria, are 17 year olds have a relationship that emotionally develops as they grow older. As they navigate friendships, expectations, and their own insecurities, the story highlights the importance of communication and self-respect without feeling preachy. Its lighthearted tone, relatable characters, and heartfelt moments make it an enjoyable read. Although it wouldn’t be what I would normally read, I would rate it 3.5 stars for originality and its reverse structure, as well as weaving humour in.

Georgina

Birdie
This was such a sad, yet sweet book, that shows you what life might have been like after the war. It is especially good if you love animals and it has such a lovely storyline of friendship and kindness.

tamsin

The Boy I Love
The Boy I Love is an incredible book - it's so descriptive that you feel like you really know the characters. It is heart wrenching, emotional and enthralling and I couldn't put it down!

tamsin

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
It wasn’t the book for me. I think some of the humour was hard to understand, but I can also see its appeal because in our group session when I explained the book to others it sounded quite funny and several other people in the group were intrigued and have now borrowed it for their next read.

Bailey

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
I liked this book because it is humorous but also discussed themes of belonging and self worth. I enjoyed it because it was very random and chaotic at times but still had a clear storyline and message. Overall, I would recommend this book, especially to young people who want a quick, funny book to read.

Charlie

Popcorn
I really enjoyed the style of this book, it was very relatable and funny but there were also moments when it was harder for Andrew. I loved this book and would definitely recommend it.

Arabella

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
This book was very unusual and quite random but I still enjoyed it. When I was telling my friends some of the things that happen in the book they where all extremely curious and asked to read it next.

Arabella

Wolf Siren
Wolf Siren - Beth O' Brien This is not the sort of book I would normally go for but I actually really enjoyed the storyline and the main character, Red. I liked how Beth O' Brien let the reader see things from Red's point of view, especially how she navigates the world while being visually impaired. I also liked how she used vivid descriptions to make the forest more eerie and magical while still subtly linking back to the original Little Red Riding Hood story. It did take me a while to get into the book, as the early chapters are quite slow as the mystery builds. Despite this, I ended up enjoying it overall.

isabelle

Not Going To Plan
Not Going to Plan by Tia Fisher is an important read for young people navigating the trials and tribulations of senior school and in particular the ups and downs of friendships and relationships. It explores the themes of online bullying, identity and consent. Marnie is an intelligent, feisty teen who has talents, dreams and immense potential but who has made a series of questionable choices. Expelled from one school she enrols at a tough, local comprehensive school but quickly finds friendship in the form of STEM genius Zed and an inspiring staff member who helps her channel her rebellious streak into artistic self expression. I particularly liked the depiction of her male friends and the way they supported and lifted Marnie up in her darkest hour. Written in free verse and sensitively tackling the realities of life for many young people in today's digital world. This book is both accessible and relatable.

Mrs Clarkson