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Brand New Boy
Book Review
I really liked the plot of this book as I couldn’t guess what George’s secret was until it was revealed half way through
This story is told by a schoolboy called Daniel and it’s about what happens when a mysterious new boy starts at his school. The new boy, George, is good at maths and football, but for some reason he can’t sing. He sings with a flat, normal voice with no tune. Daniel and his friends Louise, Maxie and Billy find out George’s secret. What George needs from the them is their help.
David Almond sets this story in the North East where he lives. His characters speak like they are from Newcastle so I learned a few new words when I read this. If I am in Newcastle, I know to say ‘Aye’ for ‘Yes’.
I really liked the plot of this book as I couldn’t guess what George’s secret was until it was revealed half way through. Then the story gets really exciting as the friends try to save their strange new friend.
My favourite character was Billy Dodds because he takes command when George needs his help.
If you like exciting books that are told by the child themselves, I think you will like this book.
See if you can guess what George’s secret is before I did!
About the Book
Brand New Boy is a charming, warm and witty tale set in school in the North East. It is told by master storyteller (winner of the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award and Carnegie Medal), a literary hero of the North East – David Almond. The book is illustrated by Marte Altés.
When new boy George joins the class, everyone thinks he’s a bit strange, but he’s brilliant at football and loves crisps, and that’s all that matters to Dan and Maxie. However, the truth about George is stranger than anyone could have imagined … and more sinister, too.
Can his new pals help him to become truly free?
Author
David Almond
David Almond (born 15 May 1951) is a British author best known for his magical-realist novels for young readers, including 'Skellig' and 'Kit’s Wilderness'. Raised in northeastern England, he taught school and worked odd jobs before turning to writing full time, and his work has since been translated into more than 40 languages. He has won numerous awards, including the Carnegie Medal and the Hans Christian Andersen Award, and was appointed OBE for his services to literature.
Reviewer Profile
Ted, 9
- Reviews: 7
- Likes: reading, amphibians and body-boarding
- Dislikes: peas and going to bed early
- Favourite Book: Beast Quest by Adam Blade
- Favourite Film: Venom
- Favourite Song: Bubbles by Tokyo Machine
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