Slaughterboy

by Odo Hirsch
This author has written some wonderful children?s stories, but this book (and the memorable Yoss written a few years ago) demonstrate what a great writer he is when dealing with more serious topics. The boy of the title is barely saved from starvation when not much more than a toddler. He gets through the next few years by his wits and the friendship of other boys in similar circumstances, surviving the dangers of a medieval city without the protection of family. The book takes us on his journey of survival, for better or worse. In many ways the author shows us how lucky we are to live in a modern, civilised nation, but then again the ups and downs of Conrad's life read as true for many people today. Excellent.