
Just Jack
by Kate Scott, illustrated by Alex Gunn
Interest age: 8 to 11
Reading age: 8+
Published by Piccadilly Press, 2018
About this book
Since his mum and dad split up, Jack has moved around a lot. But that's OK, because he's figured out how to survive: his very own Sherlock code.
He seeks out safe friends, tries not to stand out too much, fits in with everyone else's interests, doesn't give away too much personal information – and, most importantly, he never lets himself get too close to anyone.
But when he moves to his new school and meets Tyler (a whirlwind of energy, with his spectacular inventions and Tigger-esque personality), will he be able to stick to his code or will he find himself in danger?
Just Jack is another charming story from Giant author Kate Scott, with a lovely message about the importance of being true to yourself. Tyler is a wonderfully realised character, a bouncing bundle of fun that fizzes off the pages. He's a wonderful influence on Jack, and a joy to spend time with.
As Jack slowly comes to realise that fitting in might be safe but that it's also very boring, young readers will cheer him on. A joy of a read that skips along and makes you feel like you're wearing your very own pair of Tyler's Skater-Flyer Shoes.
More books like this
-
My Dog
by Olivia Wakeford, illustrated by David Litchfield
9 to 12 years
-
Solving Crimes is NOT My Superpower
by Nathanael Lessore, illustrated by Simran Diamond Singh
9 to 12 years
-
The Notwitches
by Gary Panton, illustrated by Dotty Sutton
9 to 12 years
-
Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion
by Abiola Bello, illustrated by Emma McCann
6 to 9 years