book cover

You're Not the Boss of Me!

by Catherine Wilkins

Interest age: 9 to 12
Reading age: 9+

Published by Nosy Crow, 2022

  • Coming-of-age
  • Funny

About this book

Amy is very excited about taking part in the school comedy show, but when Harry and his friends are put in charge, they refuse to let her get involved.

Amy's determined to have her say, but they keep shutting her out and shouting her down. With the help of friends old and new, will Amy be able to help everyone to enjoy being part of the show?

You're Not the Boss of Me is a brilliantly funny story, which introduces ideas about feminism, toxic masculinity and the patriarchy in a relatable and easy-to-understand way for young readers – Amy's older sister Caz is on hand to explain some of the sexism taking place.

Amy's also a really endearing character, and readers will be cheering as she stands up for herself (or groaning when her well-meaning exploits cause trouble).

It's wonderful to see a character full of such self-confidence and so happy with who she is - but she's got lots to learn about being a supportive friend and understanding her privilege, too.

Taking on big concepts in a page-turning school story, You're Not the Boss of Me is sure to make young readers think, but it will also give them loads of laughs along the way.

About the author

Catherine Wilkins, author of My Best Friend and Other Enemies, is a writer and comedian. She grew up in Hertfordshire and now lives in London. She writes jokes and stories which she performs around the country to strangers in the dark, trying to make them laugh. Catherine has always wanted to write funny stories for children and is finding the whole process more exciting than that time she bungee jumped. Which is pretty exciting. If you think about it.

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