Maggot Moon

In an alternate 1950s, Standish Treadwell is growing up in a Britain dominated by the dark, ruthlessly oppressive forces of The Motherland. Life is hard, but Standish struggles onwards - until his best and only friend Hector is taken away from him, and events take a new and more dangerous turn. Gradually, Standish comes to realise that it is down to him and his grandfather, together with a small band of rebels, to make a stand against The Motherland. In a desperate effort to protect the people he loves, Standish sets out on a heroic mission to expose the truth about a planned landing on the moon.

Combining conspiracy theory and dystopia, this hugely original novel from Sally Gardner will resonate with readers of all ages. Brilliantly-written and very readable, the story is told in the first person, in the distinctive and unusual voice of Standish, who although he is far from the standard 'hero' archetype, soon proves himself to be loyal, brave and idealistic.

A dark and often deeply chilling read, this is also a story full of hope, which speaks compellingly about the value of friendship, trust, courage and freedom. Altogether, Maggot Moon is an unusual, deeply moving and thought-provoking story, which has clear potential to become a modern classic.