Problem Child

James Roy (text & illus)

University of Queensland Press, Australia: 2007; 163pp

ISBN: 9780702236044

Genres: humour, realistic fiction

Issues: bullying, friendship, family, values

Max Quigley doesn't hit anybody (except his older brother). When you think about it what he's doing is ensuring that lower life forms, like brainiac Triffin Nordstrom, are aware of their position in the school pecking order. You might even say Max and his friend, Jared, are performing an important social service.

Well, that's what Max thinks, anyway. Unfortunately for him, his parents disagree. Determined that Max will develop a more respectful attitude towards other students, the Quigleys and Mrs Nordstrom decide that the boys need to spend more time together, not less - with some rather unexpected results!

This is a very clever piece of writing from the author of Captain Mack. Narrated from the bully's point of view, the story clearly demonstrates the attitudes that lie behind psychological bullying. These include easygoing parents who don't quite know how to correct their children; teachers who lack strategies beyond detentions to deal with behaviour problems; and children who fear or reject those who are different in any way. All of this is embedded in Max's self-centred narration. Many of the events of the narrative are wryly funny and the juxtaposition of Max and Triffin provides many wonderful ‘odd couple' moments.

Very much about the need to get to know people for who they really are rather than who you think they are, this is a must read for schools. The writer's exploration of the subtle changes in Max's thinking as he gets to know Triffin demonstrates wonderful character development and make this a great book to read aloud.