Tom Gates #18: Ten Tremendous Tales Award-winning author by Liz Pichon (author and illustrator)

Our February 2022 Ages 9-10 Book of the Month

My February Book of the Month for children aged 9 and over has to be The Rollercoaster Boy. For Todd and Laurie, living with their Dad is a rollercoaster – he is either on top of the world, taking them on fun adventures, or down in the depths and sleeping all the time. On one of his better days, he whisks them away on holiday, promising a luxurious mansion, swimming pool, fairground, all-you-can-eat-buffets, and fireworks. The reality is a rundown dump – and the disappointment means Dad returns to bed. Todd and Laurie have the run of the place, and uncover an unsolved mystery of a famous novelist who vanished from her room on the top floor, which was locked from the inside…

This is the latest title from Lisa Thompson, one of my personal favourite authors and the award-winning author of the breakout debut The Goldfish Boy. The Rollercoaster Boy has the same middle-grade magic formula of humour, uncovering secrets and unravelling a page-turning mystery. In classic Lisa Thompson style, it is also extremely moving and full of heart. It tackles a tough but important topic of bipolar disorder, which the dad suffers from. Full of twists and turns, this is bound to be another beloved bestseller and favourite for years to come.

Su – Book Club Editor, Ages 7–11+