"Wonderful characters, witty wordplay and a challenge to so-called “alpha-men” combine in this heart-warming and hilarious novel."
April 2024 Book of the Month
Anton and his friends rule the school, they go where they like and say what they like. They consider everybody else beneath them, including the teachers. But when Anton keeps getting into trouble, his mum is less impressed by his fierce reputation and more concerned for his future. Hoping he’ll see the error of his ways and make new friends, she removes his internet privileges and signs him up to volunteer for a wholesome community. If he doesn’t join in, he doesn’t get back online.
Surrounded by guitar-led sing-a-longs, secret handshakes and unbridled enthusiasm, Anton is less than impressed, but when mega geek Matthew saves his life, Anton has a debt to repay. Can he turn Matthew cool? Or will Matthew be the one changing Anton?
King of Nothing perfectly demonstrates why Lessore’s Carnegie shortlisted debut, Steady For This, was so successful. He is a new and exciting author for the young teen market, writing character driven comedy with massively impressive depth, truthfulness, and hilarity. Anton starts as a deeply unpleasant character, full of disdain for anything and anyone he considers below his level of cool. Whilst Matthew represents everything Anton and his bullying mates hate – he's kind, open, and unapologetically geeky. Alongside a perfectly rendered cast of secondary characters, they show the importance of being your true self and deciding what sort of person you really want to be.
Dealing with grief, toxic masculinity, sexist influencers, domestic violence, and parents in prison; this is not a novel without depth. These topics are written sensitively throughout, with just the right amount of humour. In particular, toxic masculinity is well-handled and considered, breaking down misogynistic soundbites, and showing the power and freedom to be enjoyed when boys have the option to live without the pressure of being “manly”.
Witty and wise, this is a triumph of a novel, perfect for fans of Alex Wheatle, Brian Conaghan and Patrice Lawrence. Not to be missed!
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From the Yoto Carnegie Medal shortlisted author of Steady For This comes a hilarious and heartwarming new teen comedy!
ANTON AND HIS FRIENDS ARE THE KINGS OF YEAR 9. They're used to ruling the school and Anton wears the crown. The other kids run away when he's about but that's the way he wants it - he's got a reputation to live up to after all. So when he gets into serious trouble at school, he doesn't really care, but his mum most definitely does.
She decides it's time for Anton to make some new friends and join the Happy Campers, a local activity group. Anton would quite literally rather do anything else, especially when he finds out Matthew, the biggest loser in school, is also a member. But after Matthew unexpectedly saves Anton's life, Anton figures maybe this kid is worth a shot.
Teaching him some game is the least Anton can do to repay the debt. As the boys strike up an unlikely friendship, Anton finds himself questioning everything he thought was important. Does he want ruling the school to be his crowning glory or should he set his sights on better things?
Perfect for teen readers of Alex Wheatle, Jason Reynolds and Patrice Lawrence.
The LoveReading4Kids Editorial Team have read and reviewed King of Nothing and determined it is suitable for children aged 11-12 years old
King of Nothing features in the following genres: Books of the Month, Recommendations, Books to Motivate Reluctant Readers age 11+, Funny, Children's and Young Adult Fiction, Children’s, Teenage and Educational, School Stories, Star Books, Featured Books for 11+ readers
King of Nothing is available in Paperback
King of Nothing was written by Nathanael Lessore and published by Hot Key Books
King of Nothing has 308 pages
£7.19
