The Ministry of Manners

About this book

In Margot’s world, the trees record every word you say. There are drones watching every move you make. Phones, park benches and smart speakers are bugged. But don’t worry, these things are in place to keep you safe. For the same reason, pets and pop concerts are banned. All you need to do is be good and do exactly what you are told. 

Unfortunately for Margot, she doesn’t always see the strict rules as a good thing. She wants to think for herself, make her own decisions. And so, she gets taken away by the Custodians and put in a special facility for ‘correction’. Will she ever escape and, if so, will she still be Margot? Or could the Unsilenced save her before she loses herself completely? 

This sinister, chilling snapshot of life under an authoritarian regime is brilliantly constructed and subtly disturbing. It asks important questions about democracy and freedom of speech. 

With a breathtaking final act, it would be a great way to kickstart age-appropriate discussions about politics and human rights. Think of George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four reimagined and made accessible and relevant to a contemporary, young readership.  

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