The Money, Stan, Big Lauren and Me

This is the second book about Billy who is in year 6. This time he is excited about moving house but then his mother, who is expecting a baby, loses her job and the purchase falls through.  What can Billy do to help?  Then he finds an envelope full of £20 notes!

Known for her teenage novels, Joanna Nadin has also carved a niche for herself with her funny looks at life for the 8-12 year olds.  This novel is told in the first person in the form of a diary, with each short chapter headed by the date.  There are lots of references to current TV programmes and for those living in the Bristol area, it is full of local references.

Whilst this is essentially a funny book, there are moments of sadness and confusion for our hero.  We get a real sense of the complexity of life through his eyes as he comes to terms with the problems which threaten his family.  It really makes you think about the differing perceptions of children and adults and how we gradually come to know the right thing to do.