The Present Takers

Aidan Chambers (author)

Red Fox, Australia:1994; 

ISBN: 9780099991601

Genres: realistic fiction

Issues: adolescence, bullying, communication, friendship

advanced concepts

Lucy's parents are wealthy and, although a modest girl, she stands out from the rest of the class as being better-dressed and having life a little easier than they do.

A gang of girls regularly picks on others in the school and Lucy is the next target – on her birthday. Only two people try to help her – the rather weird Angus, who has a crush on her, and Clare Tonks, the usual target of the bullying.

This well-written narrative looks at a case of severe bullying in a primary school in England, identifying why teachers and parents can't always help with bullying issues in schools and reminds readers that bullying can start at home.

Same Author: Seal Secret; Breaktime; Dance on my Grave