TO AND FRO BY ANTON CLIFFORD-MOTOPI

12-year-old Sam has a few things going on in his life. Firstly, he sees himself as the kid with the crazy hair – which happily makes him look taller. His fro may not fit under his school hat and it may get too much attention from his nemesis Boot, but it’s the only part of him that came from his “Black African father”.

Sam has never met his father and he is fine with that. His main problem at the moment is trying to complete his “Who am I and Where do I come from” assignment. His teacher, Mr Peacock, is hassling the class to create eye-catching and thought-provoking pieces. He especially encourages Charlee, a first nations student, to embrace her heritage.

While Sam ponders his own heritage, his mum springs a surprise on him that changes everything. His dad, from South Africa is here and would like to meet him.

Anton Clifford-Motopi has given readers a humourous insight into identity. People’s preconceptions and society’s ideas on self, are challenged in a way that gives an understanding from a different point of view. The themes of identity, family and blended family are used here to create a fun novel for Middle Grade readers.

For Ages: 8-12 years

Number of Pages: 304

Published: March 2024 Allen & Unwin

Themes: Identity, family and friendship

Purchase here: https://www.allenandunwin.com/browse/book/Anton-Clifford-Motopi-To-and-Fro-9781761180378