i had mixed feeling on this novel by lesley parr..it is based around the story of Marcus and at its heart it questions his identity that has been largely shaped by his family, personal loyalties and a community’s future

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book.

Readers of a certain vintage might remember a series of fiction books for children/teenagers called Topliners which we had in the school library in the late 1970s although I believe they were first issued in 1968. These books dealt with contemporary issues and the problems of teenagers and were trailblazing in their day. I particularly like the Birdy Jones stories and the Louie's Lot books.

This book reminds me of those Topliners. It is well written, entirely believable and deals with issues maybe more relevant to younger children in the modern world than to teens in the 1970s. There would be a lot to discuss with readers, friendships, bullying, family problems etc. I particularly liked the intergenerational friendship between Marcus and his elderly neighbour Mick. i wonder how many of today's youngsters know about Duck and Cover and nuclear bunkers?

There is even social activism in there although in those days it was the nuclear threat we marched about rather than today's climate change. I loved all the references to the time - Findus Crispy Pancakes, Starsky and Hutch to name but two - and the authentic picture of those days which would I am sure be of interest to children who like social history.

Educational for children, nostalgic for adults.

Fallout
By Lesley Parr
Published by Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Lesley Parr winner of the Wales Children's Book of the Year Award 2023 does it again!!
A page turner from the very start.

Marcus the youngest of three brothers has his fate decided by his family & particularly his father: theft.
So it is through pure determination and an unlikely friendship that he needs to decide what’s best for him & make some difficult changes .

A youth offender centre is where his brother is and the other works alongside their dad on plans for their next theft.

But then a mysterious accident lands a man in hospital & everyone suspects Marcus even his new found friend Emma. Feeling trapped & worthless how can he turn this around?
Can he persuade Emma to work with him to clear his name – and become the person he really wants to be?

An exciting, fast paced story that questions a family’s identity, personal loyalties and a community’s future.
Perfect for readers of 10+

Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgalley

Well mixed feelings on this one….. which is sad as I love her previous novels.
The setting ties in with my childhood so many of the references resonated with me but I was underwhelmed by the storyline and I’m unsure whether it will appeal to my school library readership.

From the moment I saw the cover for Lesley's latest middle grade novel, I knew it was one I was desperate to read, and once I started I couldn't stop, so desperate was I to know what happened to Marcus.

Lesley delivers a poignant story that delves into the complexities of family expectations, personal agency, and the transformative power of friendship. Set against the backdrop of a tight-knit community where his criminality seems almost predestined, Marcus's journey unfolds as a compelling exploration of identity and self-discovery.

With one brother behind bars and the other entangled in criminal schemes, Marcus finds himself at a crossroads, torn between the path laid out for him and the yearning for something more. Yet, wherever he turns within his community, who he is has already been decided for him, whether it's his teachers, shopkeepers, or most of his neighbours.

Central to the story is the arrival of Emma, a newcomer to the small town, whose belief in Marcus ignites a glimmer of hope amidst the turmoil. Through their unlikely alliance, we are able to explore themes of loyalty, trust, and the power of solidarity in the face of adversity. Emma's fervent activism serves as a catalyst for Marcus's own awakening, prompting him to challenge the misconceptions that threaten to define him.

But, the character I loved most of all was Mick, who in Marcus' own words, "isn't like everyone else." His refusal to judge Marcus based on him being a Pritchard, but instead on how he treats animals shows Marcus that maybe all hope for a different life isn't lost, and is the perfect opening for discussions on nature versus nurture. What I do know, is that everyone need a Mick in their corner.

With its richly drawn characters and gripping narrative, Fallout is a story of resilience and redemption, that is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after the final page is turned. A must-read for anyone in Year 6 and above, this is storytelling at its finest. You might want to have a tissue or two handy.

This was such an unusual and interesting children's book which I always love to see. Great setup - 1980s Welsh village where everyone knows everyone and has plenty to say.
The characters were colourful and real, partly due to the author's excellent use of dialogue and voice.
It includes a family dynamic not often seen in children's books; family of bad eggs with a child who wants something different for himself.
Think Matilda's family - in rural Wales, but instead of Matilda as the MC you've got a young, misunderstood, wannabe Paul Weller!
Loved it

Marcus Pritchard is heavily tarred with his family’s reputation and he is pretty much resigned to it - until he meets Emma, a free spirited girl who sees past Marcus’ angry exterior and helps him see beyond what he had anticipated to be an inevitable life of crime. Set in the uncertain times of the threat of nuclear war, the story provides an underlying historical context alongside an engaging and well paced journey of self-belief. An impelling and inspiring read with themes of friendship, family and moral judgment for Y6 and above. In my opinion, this is the best yet from the wonderful Lesley Parr.

This was incredible! Marcus has an 'interesting' life at home and wants nothing to do with how his family make money. But he always gets dragged into it. Until he meets Emma and she makes him re-evaluate his life. He starts to make friends and then realises what he wants out of life, and it's not his family. Is it too late to change? Can he change with most of the village against him?
This is an absolutely amazing story and I was in tears at the end!

Such a good book! Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down! It was a great book and shows that you should never judge a book by it’s cover or a member of a family by the rest of his family, the friendships in this book are so good and it shows that no matter your background you can be friends with anyone, old or young.

I throughly recommend this book to everyone to read as it shows that wonderful friendships can come from nothing!

I would like to thank NetGalley and Bloomsbury for giving me this opportunity to read this book early!

I loved this book and think many in my class will too. I'm Scottish so I had to look up a few Welsh words like 'twty' 😆. The book highlights the disadvantages some face simply due to the family they are born into and how at times it can be difficult to do the right thing. It also shows the importance of being willing to give people a chance. The friendships formed were heartwarming and the ending left us with hope for the main character.

I enjoyed this book. There was enough mystery in there to keep me engaged, and I loved the references to my childhood, although some of these would be wasted on the kids themselves of course. This harks back to a happier time, devoid of social media, and of children occupying themselves. it was good to see the main character have a choice and make the right one given the challenges he faced.

I’m a massive fan of Lesley’s work. Her characterisation is exceptional and one of the finest in UK literature – in Fallout, she delivers sensitive moments which may seem unremarkable to many but to Marcus are life-changing (Marcus getting a spare key left me with tears in my eyes or a moment where he spots Emma’s badge on the floor). I love the multi-faceted title – from Mick’s bunker precaution, the Pritchards’ family dynamic, the threat of nuclear war or Marcus’ row with old friend Jezza, Fallout offers so much to the reader. Equally, the ending doesn’t Hollywood-ify Marcus’ prospects but leaves the reader hopeful of what may lie ahead for him.

If you only read one book this year mun then make it Fallout! Don’t be a div – preorder this exceptionally powerful tale of choices, friendship and the ability to change what may seem preordained for us. My favourite Lesley Parr book so far!

Fallout by Lesley Parr is set in the valleys of Wales. I enjoy that Parr uses some of the Welsh language in her books and the words always have me searching for their meanings - it brings authenticity to her writing.
Marcus is a Pritchard - and Pritchards are thieves, liars and always in trouble - just look at his older brother - he is spending time at the Farm School for fencing cigarettes. However, Marcus is trying to move away from being labeled a 'Pritchard' and it's during an unlikely friendship with his neighbour Mick who takes a chance on him and Emma 'a long-haired hippy' that Marcus really comes into his own.
Marcus, Emma and Mick make an unlikely trio, and when Mick is devastatingly hurt in an accident in the town's carnival - Marcus and Emma have to work together to find out who their friend.

A lovely read, filled with themes of friendship and resilience.

Masterful writing from Lesley Parr. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, Fallout is a powerful and moving story about unexpected friendships, societal expectations, labels, and who we ultimately choose to be. The voice is incredible. Absolutely incredible. As a reader, you forget the author completely. It's not a construct, this book - it's like you're sitting right there with Marcus, listening to him tell his story in his own words.

Another beautiful story by Lesley Parr. Like her previous work, this is set in recent history in Wales, this time during the Cold War. Marcus comes from a “bad” family and often ends up doing “bad” things himself, partly as a reaction to other people’s low expectations of him. But as we follow Marcus’s journey, we come to know the real sensitive soul inside. He gradually gets to know Mick, the old man who lives at the end of his street, and has a nuclear bunker in his garden, and Emma, a girl from school whose whole family protest for peace. With newfound friendship comes some difficult decisions, and ultimately will Marcus follow in his family’s footsteps or forge his own path. Really enjoyed reading this book.

Lesley Parr writes the kind of stories that encompass people from all walks of life. I’m quite certain that everyone could find at least a part of themselves reflected in one of her books.
This story brought together 2 characters from totally different backgrounds and showed the long reaching impact of their friendship. Another absolutely brilliant book from an author who has become one of my favourites.

I enjoy reading books based with characters from /in Wales and this one went above that as it brings you in to the tightknit dynamic of Welsh communities and how you can break free from the stigma's that this places on you.

When I spotted Fallout on NetGalleyUK, I knew I needed to request it (despite my teetering TBR pile). It demanded to be read immediately, leaping past the rest of my current reads. I'm not sure how I feel about my childhood being the setting for historical fiction but this 1980s Cold War Welsh story is just perfect. The music, food, trends and everday teen life of 1980 in the village of Pentre smothers the pages in comfort and reality despite the hardships of the story.

Marcus is a Pritchard. That means he comes from a bad family of thieves and cheats who are always looking for the next job, scam or scheme to make some fast cash. Everyone in their village knows who they are and looks down on them in disgust. Marcus figures he may as well live up to their reputation making a string of poor choices.

With one older brother at Borstol and the other so abusive Marcus lives in fear of being beat up, there's no happiness at home. His parents expect him to be a part of the family business no matter how much it puts him at risk (or whether he wants to join in or not). A fall out with his best friend, Jezza, is the final straw, leaving Marcus feeling very alone.

Things start to change when he meets two people who want to see the good in him rather than assuming the worst. First, his elderly neighbour invites Marcus to help him with some work in his garden. Not used to being wanted, Marcus doesn't trust Mick's kindness and can't understand why he would say, "Good boy, you are. No matter what anyone says." Then he meets Emma - a brave "floppy fringe girl" who attends ban the bomb rallies and always speaks her mind. She challenges him to discover who he really is - not the legacy his family has created for him. Mick and Emma are the first people to actually care about Marcus and listen to his story.

Gradually, Marcus finds himself doing good deeds inspite of himself. As he starts to see himself through Mick and Emma's eyes, he realises there is good inside. Not used to kindness, he has to learn how to respond and make something of himself.

When tragedy strikes, fingers point at the Pritchard family. Maybe there isn't hope for him afterall. Will he end up in Borstol with his brother or can he break the cycle and change his path? This is his chance to prove he's good and see himself in a new light.

The backdrop of the Cold War and fear of nuclear bombs is eye-opening. Both Mick and Emma feel very strongly about the possibility of an attack. Mick focuses on preparation while Emma is sure prevention is the best way forward. Mick's elaborate nuclear bunker shows just how far people would go to create a safe space for themselves when they don't trust the authorities to protect them. Emma teaches Marcus that peace and protest are powerful weapons in making yourself heard.

Fallout is a raw, honest story of family dynamics and finding your own way. It is a reminder that we all have choices about the future but it takes real courage to be true to ourselves and turn away from those who seek to hurt us. The power of kindness shines through Emma, Mick and eventually Marcus as he learns what it feels like to be loved. Readers will be challenged to think twice before making assumptions about someone based on their family and to give everyone a second chance.

Lesley Parr's characterisation is what makes this story so special. Through first person perspective, Marcus comes to life. He is as real as any child you could ever meet. So very likeable, readers can't help but want the best for him and to help him find some way to escape his family. Equally, Marcus's parents and his brother Gavin are distinctly unlikable. Their treatment of Marcus is sickening and creates a clear picture of the life in which he's trapped. Mick is incredibly wise. His experience of war brings depth to his character which is revealed more and more each time he comes alongside Marcus. Even though they've only just gotten to know each other, Mick is more like family than anyone else. Emma is feisty. She believes in her own power to make a difference in the world. She is the strength Marcus needs to find that power for himself.

Thank you to Bloomsbury for an early read of this outstanding book!