"This authentic YA novel-in-verse tackles contemporary issues to tell an uplifting tale of regrowth, resilience and finding your voice."
June 2024 Debut of the Month
Exploring tragic violence, rebirth, the power of poetry, fresh starts and friendship, Ashley Hickson-Lovence’s Wild East is a wondrous work of YA fiction.
Authentically voiced by an inspiring 14-year-old protagonist, and delivered in an engaging verse form, it packs powerful emotional punch, with themes of compassion, inclusion and coming together in a spirit of understanding radiating through Ronny’s relatable journey. When tragedy strikes, Ronny’s mum moves them from Hackney to start a new life in Norwich. After experiencing “Where are you really from?” racism, aspiring rapper Ronny starts to feel more at home when he finds a true friend at his new school, and when a local poet recognises his talents.
“Everyone has dreams, and mine is to showcase my way with words to the world”, Ronny declares, and he’s given a great chance to realise those dreams when a supportive teacher signs him up to an esteemed residential writing course. Here, Ronny finds his voice, along with fresh confidence, life-changing bonds, and the possibility of romance.
Poignantly honest on the realities of county lines, Wild East is — ultimately — an insightful work of feel-good fiction. A novel that lays bare the value of making the right decisions, the importance of dreams, and the power of positive peers and mentors.
On that note, I’ll leave the last uplifting words to Ronny: “Whether you live in North London or Norwich, everyone just wants to feel part of a community, a safe place, within a group, where they belong, where they feel appreciated”.
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Bursting with energy and heart, young readers will adore this empowering novel told in verse. A raw and relevant exploration of creativity, talent and what it means to be human.
Wild East is a soaring tale of empowerment, friendship and self-acceptance told in verse. Engaging, accessible and utterly compelling, it marks Ashley Hickson-Lovence as a vital voice in YA fiction.
When tragedy strikes, fourteen-year-old Ronny’s life is upended and he’s forced to move from East London to a new city. As a black teenager in a predominantly white school, Ronny feels like he doesn’t belong but when a poet visits his class, he discovers poetry isn’t so different from his beloved rap.... Read Full Review
This book is a triumph - a wonderful representation of teenage life in today's society that creates a lasting impact on its readers.
This young adult novel reflects the complexities of today's society for young people, through its beautiful use of language and cleverly crafted rhythm to tell a story of hope in the face of adversity. The carefully considered use of familiar experiences allow the reader to become fully immersed in the story, rooting for Ronny as he moves from London to Norwich. The playlist, reading list and excellent illustrations are the perfect accompaniments for this moving story.... Read Full Review
Ashley Hickson-Lovence writes a captivating story that portrays the difficulties people face and how beauty can be found through adversity.
Wild East is a brilliant book that showcases the difficulties of Ronny’s life and how he deals with them while pursuing his passion. It is not easy being in a new city and I think that feeling of trying to fit in really resonates with the reader. Ronny struggles to fight against stereotypes but succeeds while making a reputation in school. With the pressure to do ‘jobs’ outside of school his new life is getting harder by the second. But the silver lining is the many friends who have supported him along the way. I think the most significant friendship is that of Ronny and Mr Bruce. Even though one friendship was tragically taken away from him, he bravely strives for new opportunities.... Read Full Review
