Bigg School: Double Drama

Like many boys in year 7, Daniel mostly likes life at big school, but he’s still finding his way, especially when it comes to working out who to have as friends. His home life is challenging too. He’s responsible for looking after his little sisters when his mum’s chronic fatigue syndrome is bad; money is tight, and dad is often worried.

Things come to a head when he’s offered the part of the Cowardly Lion in the school’s production of The Wizard of Oz. Daniel loves being on stage but is desperate to keep it from his new friends. Fortunately, even if his so-called mates don’t get it, others do.

The second in this new series from Lisa Williamson covers big themes and emotions, and every bit of it feels true to life, Daniel’s troubles and eventual triumph described with warmth, insight and sensitivity. These big-hearted contemporary stories have a very broad appeal.