Kim Slater - Smart
Teen 11-14.
240 pages.
There's been a murder, but the police don't care. It was only a homeless old man after all. Kieran cares. He's made a promise, and when you say something out loud, that means you're going to do it, for real. He's going to find out what really happened.
To Colin. And to his grandma, who just stopped coming round one day. It's a good job Kieran's a master of observation, and knows all the detective tricks of the trade. But being a detective is difficult when you're Kieran Woods. When there are dangerous secrets everywhere, not just outside, but under your own roof. Themes: mystery, crime, murder, family.
John Steinbeck - Of Mice and Men
Teen.
112 pages.
The childlike Lennie is lost without his guardian, George, who feels his slow-witted friend has been delivered into his keeping. Bound by their fragile dream of owning land where they will 'belong', their future paradise is soon shattered.
Allan Stratton - The Dogs
Teen 11-14.
272 pages.
Cameron and his mum have been on the run for five years. His father is hunting them. At least, that's what Cameron's been told. When they settle in an isolated farmhouse, Cameron starts to see and hear things that aren't possible. Soon he's questioning everything he thought he knew and even his sanity.
Genres and themes: Mystery/thriller, supernatural, family, bullies, domestic abuse. Includes scenes of violence.