This is a solid middle grade book about bravery in the face of grief. It has the usual balance of comedy and emotion from Wheatle. A fitting final book from such an incredible author. I wanted to give it 5 stars because of that fact, but it's just missing a bit of grit and reality for me in terms of how nice everyone is to Kadeen when she first meets peers in the UK. However, that show of kindness is what makes it such a good read for children as young as 10 (thought there is a fatal shooting at the very beginning, it's not gratuitous). I will use this in booktalks with Y6-Y8, maybe some Y9s.

How sad to have been starting this book just when I heard news Alex’s death. The YA world has lost a brilliant writer who reflects the lives of young people today.
Although this novel was originally set in Jamaica, it could have been a city in the UK or the US. Kadeen didn’t witness her brother’s stabbing but she saw the perpetrator and provided a statement to the police. Because of this, her life was in possible danger so she was shipped off to stay with her aunt, thousands of miles away. Her impression of Aunt Mel was a strict lady, but living with her and getting to know her better changed her views. But not before Kadeen deceived her by sneaking out to play football with the local girls’ team. But will her skill bring her to the attention of acquaintances of her brother’s killer?
A novel about following your dreams even when your family have different visions for your future.

Touching and gritty, The Girl With the Red Boots is a YA story of love, loss and the beautiful game. I really hope this is part of a series as I am desperate to know what happens next for Kadeen, Aunt Mel and the rich cast of supporting characters. The serious message of the need to tackle gun crime (and knife crime) is balanced with humour and friendship making this a story which hits all the right notes.