Description
A beautiful and sensitive exploration of the experience of child poverty from leading author/illustrator, Tom Percival, for fans of Boy at the Back of the Class and Julia and the Shark.
Will has the wrong shoes – he's always known it but doesn't know how to change it. Navigating the difficulties of home and school when you feel you stick out is tough, but finding confidence with the help and empathy of friends can be all you need to see the way.
Review
Life is tough for Will. His Mum and Dad are not together anymore. He does see his Mum, who now lives with her new partner Greg, but he lives with his Dad, who is currently out of work due to being injured. Money is always tight, and Will never feels likes he fits in. Not to mention Chris Tucker, the school bully who seems to have his sights set on Will.
His best friend Cameron’s family life is the complete opposite of Will’s. Cameron has everything that Will can only ever dream of. But when Cameron tries to help Will, only to be met with rejection, things become awkward between them and Will’s life spirals more out of control.
The only positive for Will at school is his art class. It is the one place that he feels at home, and his art teacher, Mr Prince, encourages Will in a way that no one else does.
But when Will finds himself caught up in the illegal escapades of Chris Tucker and his gang, he knows that what they are doing is wrong. Can Will find the courage and strength within to stand up for what is right, and see who is true friends really are?
This is a very emotional and powerful story, that highlights how poverty reaches into all aspects of life. You will find yourself wanting the best for Will, as he is a good kid caught up in circumstances beyond his control. It will be enjoyed by all students in lower secondary.
