In the shadow of a bully, a rescued rook becomes a symbol of hope in this poignant, Carnegie Medal shortlisted novella about growing up and family. Shortlisted for the 2018 Carnegie Medal. When Kenny and Nicky rescue a rook left for dead, Kenny is determined to keep it alive.

Nicky doubts the scruffy bird will make it, but then Nicky has plenty else to worry about. This time, it’s not his dad or Kenny who need help – his dad’s sorting his life out and Kenny’s busy making plans with his new best mate. Now it’s Nicky’s turn to struggle – with a school bully, his first love and the fact that everything is about to go very, very wrong.

Particularly suitable for readers aged 11+ with a reading age of 9.

• Format: Paperback
• Dimensions: approximately 203 × 132 × 11 mm, weight approx 214 g
• ISBN‑13: 978‑0‑00‑873905‑8
• Publisher: Barrington Stoke (HarperCollins)
• Age recommendation: Interest age 11+; Reading age approximately 9.
• Series: The Truth of Things – Book 3
• Award recognition: Shortlisted for the CILIP Carnegie Medal in 2018.

Q: Is this book suitable for dyslexic or reluctant readers?

A: Yes — it is published by Barrington Stoke, a specialist imprint for accessible reading layouts and typefaces.

Q: What reading age is this appropriate for?

A: It is recommended for interest age 11+ and reading age around 9.

Q: Do I need to have read the previous books to enjoy this?

A: While it follows the same characters as the earlier titles (Book 1 & 2), the story stands alone and can be enjoyed without reading the others.

Q: What is the main theme of the book?

A: It addresses issues of bullying, family change, responsibility and hope, centred around the rescue of a rook which becomes a symbol of connection and resilience.

Q: Is this just for children or also older readers?

A: Though aimed at younger readers, the strong emotional themes and accessible style make it suitable for older reluctant or struggling readers as well.