Orpington Library Older Teens

The Final Year
Hi! When I was first handed this book, I didn't think I would like it because of the free verse form it was written in, and normally I groan when I get one of those books! But ,whoa, was I surprised. The way the poet arranged his worded ADDED to the story instead of making it tricky to read; weaving in poems and rhyme to the plot of the story, making it a 'textured' and intricate read. I particularly loved the references to David Almond's book, Skellig! It was deeply emotional, and I found myself worried for the characters in their times of trouble, audibly gasping at the shocking bits, such was the realistic way it was written. I love how it covers that scary transitional stage between yr5, 6 and 7; I feel like there's not enough books on that topic. The pictures also added to it, visibly painting the plot onto the pages along with Matt's wonderful words. Overall, great read! I couldn't put it down.

Francesca

Glasgow Boys
This book was the most beautiful book I've ever read. I read it as much as I could, in any spare time I had and was kind of disappointed when it finished, although it was a very nice, polished-off ending. I felt like each word was carefully and purposefully placed, each of them painting a breath-taking picture and world of Finlay and Banjo's world, making it seem so real and personal that I laughed when they laughed, and I was sad when they cried. The whole story was a whirl of resplendent colour and life, and I felt like I related to some of the feelings the characters felt like, it was so well-written and REAL. To say this is my new favourite book would be an understatement.

Francesca

Play
Something about this book became special to me when i was reading it, maybe it was because of how the book is easy to relate to, or how it talks about real struggles that a lot of teens (especialy boys) go through, there are a lot of reasons why someone might like this book, and for me its because of all of those reasons it has a good message behind it and is relatible and almost felt comforting to read, and that is what makes it special to me. if i was to give this book a rating, i would give it 5 stars.

Larry

Treacle Town
This book focuses on a boy called Connor, who goes through many struggles during the course of the book, feeling stuck in the place where he lives; hence the name: Treacle Town. But there is one beacon of light for him: slam poetry. The book ends with the reader not knowing whether this has a lasting impact on his life at all, making it feel like we've just seen a slice of Connor's life, and letting you reflect on the messages spoken about in the book.

Francesca