Check Mates

Felix, a child with ADHD, is struggling at school. His grandfather, who has been absent since his grandmother's death, suggests spending time with him. Felix initially dislikes chess, but his grandfather teaches him that there is everything to play for. The book is a touching, funny, and gripping read that tackles important issues in a sensitive and enjoyable way. It has received praise from authors such as Ross Welford, David Solomons, Kiran Milwood Hargrave, Lisa Thompson, Stuart Robinson, and Christopher Edge. The Bubble Boy has also won the UKLA Book Awards 2021 and the Sainsbury's Children's Book Award in 2016.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 27 June 2019
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

Winner of the UKLA Book Awards 2021, "All the Things That Could Go Wrong" is a funny and heartfelt story with a cunning twist. Written by Stewart Foster, the book follows the journey of Felix, a struggling schoolboy with ADHD. Despite everyone's expectations that he should try harder, Felix finds it difficult to concentrate and his grades are slipping. His mother suggests that he spends time with his grandfather, who has been distant since his grandmother's death. At first, Felix is reluctant, as he finds his grandfather's boring chess lessons tedious. However, as he spends more time with his grandfather, he begins to see that there is more to life than just schoolwork.

Through their interactions, Felix learns valuable lessons about life, friendship, and family. He discovers that his grandfather is a skilled chess player who has been hiding his talent from everyone. Felix also learns that his grandfather has a secret that could change their lives forever.

"All the Things That Could Go Wrong" is a touching, funny, and gripping read that tackles important issues in a sensitive and thoroughly enjoyable way. The characters are well-developed, and the story is filled with heartwarming moments. The writing is witty and clever, and the pacing is perfect. The book also features beautiful illustrations that add to the overall appeal of the story.

Praise for "All the Things That Could Go Wrong" has been pouring in from critics and readers alike. Kiran Milwood Hargrave, author of "The Girl of Ink and Stars," praised the book for its "moving, humane, funny portrait of two very different boys discovering what connects us all." Ross Welford, author of "Time Travelling with a Hamster," described it as "an inspirational underdog story and a chilling mystery." Lisa Thompson, author of "The Goldfish Boy," called it "a touching, funny, gripping read that tackles important issues in a sensitive and thoroughly enjoyable way." Stuart Robinson, author of "If Ever I Fall," praised the book for its "timeliness and reminder of what we all share."

"The Bubble Boy" was the winner of the Sainsbury's Children's Book Award in 2016. The book is a poignant and hopeful story about a young boy named Albie who suffers from a rare condition that makes him immune to germs. Despite his condition, Albie is determined to live a normal life and refuses to let his illness hold him back. With the help of his family and friends, Albie learns to embrace his uniqueness and find joy in the simplest of things.

"The Bubble Boy" is a powerful and warm story that will linger long in the mind. The characters are well-developed, and the writing is heartfelt and authentic. The book also features beautiful illustrations that add to the overall appeal of the story.

In conclusion, "All the Things That Could Go Wrong" and "The Bubble Boy" are two exceptional books that have won the hearts of readers and critics alike. These books offer a refreshing and uplifting perspective on life, and they remind us of the importance of family, friendship, and courage. Whether you are a child or an adult, these books are sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 131 x 198 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471172236