The Boy Who Fell from the Sky
by Benjamin Dean
Interest age: 9 to 11
Reading age: 8+
Published by Simon & Schuster, 2023
About this book
Demons are terrifying creatures that fall to Earth whenever there’s a shooting star, and they must be captured before they kill humans. Zed’s dad is the First Hunter of Demons. And Zed is expected to follow in his footsteps. But when he meets an actual Demon, he finds that he’s just a boy. A frightened boy who wants to go home. Perhaps the myths about Demons are wrong. Can Zed help Spark, while his father is determined to hunt him down?
This is an involving and exciting adventure that explores themes of human rights and the demonising of ‘the other’ in an accessible, age-appropriate way. Zed and his friendship with the Demon Spark are at the heart of the book, meaning that the message that we should treat people who are different from us with kindness, not suspicion and violence, is not overly laboured, but organic and heartfelt. As with Benjamin Dean’s other charming books, the reader is invited to consider things from others’ points of view, and to be open to changing their perspective. This would be a brilliant class reader for older primary children, stimulating many conversations and provoking empathy.
About the author
More books like this
-
Phoenix
by SF Said, illustrated by Dave McKean
9 to 14 years
-
The Secret Sunshine Project
by Benjamin Dean, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat
9 to 14 years
-
The Super Sunny Murder Club
Various authors, illustrated by Harry Woodgate, edited by Serena Patel and Robin Stevens
9 to 14 years
-
Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
by Benjamin Dean, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat
9 to 14 years
Lists of recommended reads
-
Summer reads for 8-12s
Here are our suggestions for summer reads – and there's something for every child, aged 8-12 years old. New books; old books; books about summer; books to get lost in; and books that come in series, so they won't have to stop reading this summer!
-
Science fiction books for 9+
These thrilling sci-fi titles will grip readers, and may encourage reflection on contemporary issues.
-
Books to read aloud to ages 10 and 11
A collection of gripping stories, powerful poetry and riveting non-fiction, ideal for reading aloud to children in upper Key Stage 2.
-
Books which celebrate male friendship
This booklist features stories that highlight and celebrate the power of male friendship for children of key stage 2 age and above. Through a mix of adventure, humour, empathy, and everyday experiences, these books show boys forming meaningful connections, supporting one another, and learning how to navigate challenges together.