Ugly Dogs Don't Cry

DD Armstrong's novel Of Mice and Men is a modern retelling of Steinbeck's classic, exploring intimacy, friendship, and masculinity. The story follows best friends Kyle and Sideeq as they navigate college, social politics, and a bully, testing their friendship and ambitions. Armstrong's authentic representation of West London youth culture and his exceptional skill make this a promising debut.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 07 December 2020
Publisher: Jacaranda Books Art Music Ltd

A modern retelling of John Steinbeck's classic Of Mice and Men, this landmark work from DD Armstrong is a poignant exploration of intimacy, friendship, and masculinity. Best friends Kyle and Sideeq embark on their first year of college in West London, where Sideeq, a talented aspiring artist, spends his time perfecting his artwork and navigating the harrowing events of his past. Kyle, on the other hand, dreams of becoming a rapper and a successful businessman. Despite the deep bond of friendship that forms between Kyle and Sideeq, college introduces them to the complex world of teenage social politics and a bully that threatens their friend group.

As they navigate new friendships and love interests, the question arises: will the two boys continue to support and uplift each other, propelling them toward success? Or will the newfound stressors in their lives tear them apart forever?

The premise of this novel alone captivated my attention, but the author behind it piqued my interest even more. DD Armstrong's exceptional skill and keen insight create the most authentic representation of West London youth culture I have encountered to date. His writing is fluid and natural, a joy to read, ranging from humorous to emotionally gut-wrenching within a few immersive pages. It is evident that this writer possesses immense promise, and I have a feeling that with this reworked classic, he is only just getting started.

Courttia Newland, the author of A River Called Time, praised this novel, stating, "The premise of this novel alone caught my attention, but the author behind it even more so. With exceptional skill and sharp insight, DD Armstrong creates the most authentic representation of West London youth culture I've seen yet; his voice is fluid and natural, a joy to read, ranging from the humorous to the emotionally gut-wrenching within a few immersive pages. Here is a writer with infinite promise at his fingertips. Something tells me, with this reworked classic, he's only just getting started."

In conclusion, Of Mice and Men: A Modern Retelling by DD Armstrong is a powerful and poignant exploration of the complexities of friendship, masculinity, and the challenges of growing up. Through the lives of Kyle and Sideeq, Armstrong offers a fresh perspective on a timeless classic, delivering a story that is both relevant and resonant. His exceptional writing and authentic portrayal of West London youth culture make this novel a must-read for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story that leaves a lasting impact.

Weight: 246g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913090272