Rat
by Patrice Lawrence
Interest age: 9 to 14
Reading age: 10+
Published by Oxford University Press/Barrington Stoke, 2021
About this book
Al is finally out of foster care and back living with his mum, now she’s out of prison. She’s made four important promises to help them stay together, but trouble is just around the corner and Al is devastated when she’s arrested again.
It’s clear to Al whose fault this is, though: the grumpy man from the flat downstairs, Mr Brayker, who’s hated his mum since they moved in, and who was right there in the shop when Al’s mum was arrested. Now Al is going to make him pay for what he’s done.
This absorbing tale provides a moving insight into Al’s world, which is shaped by poverty and neglect. Getting revenge is the only thing on Al’s mind, and he doesn’t care what the consequences are; it already feels like the whole world is out to get him. But what is the best way to get it?
As he goes through various plans and scenarios, Al is forced to confront difficult things but he’s gradually able to gain some understanding of those around him. An incredibly insightful and moving short story about young lives and the importance of community spirit, tolerance and kindness.
Printed in a dyslexia friendly format.
About the author
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Lists of recommended reads
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Books with family and friends looking after children
It's important that books reflect contemporary society, and that children see a variety of family situations in the stories they read. Some families don't have a mum or dad in the carer or parental role. Sometimes grandparents or uncles or aunts are looking after the children. This can be called 'kinship care' or 'family and friends care'. This selection of fantastic books show children living with family members who aren't their parents, although that is usually only the background setting, not the plot.