Children’s book of the week: Me Mam. Me Dad. Me by Malcolm Duffy

The Sunday Times

Me Mam. Me Dad. Me by Malcolm Duffy
Zephyr £10.99, Age 12+

This debut young adult novel has a great and distinctive voice. It’s the story of 14-year-old Geordie Danny, who loves his mum and is won over by his stepfather — until the abuse begins. Danny plots to have the stepfather killed. His convincing narrative is touching and compelling to the end, as well as a shockingly truthful exploration of the pattern of violent relationships. Well plotted and surprising, it is about how a youngster can make foolish choices despite being brave and determined and wanting to help. It is also about a boy’s ordinary life and his relationship to football, his teachers, his mates and his girlfriend. It has sweetness and comedy, despite