TUCKSHOP TERRORS BY LEO BAKER

Kip and his family have moved to a new town so his father can sell his fresh produce at the local market. His school, Verity Harbour High, is proving an education in itself. The canteen provides delicious non-PC food, but Kip’s parents insist he eats fresh foods, especially now he has been diagnosed with Diabetes. His friend Reggie loves the food at the canteen and like nearly all of the students, eats there most school days. Kip’s only companion during lunch time is Lucille whose Nona provides her with wonderful Italian meals.

Kip begins to notice odd things happening at the school. Apart from the creepy headmaster, Mr Ridley (who keeps on calling him Chip), Kip sees that at times his fellow students seem to fall into a trance. They accomplish great test results and swim faster than Kip has seen. And then there’s the schools PA system, it seems to hum and crackle and tick in a weird way.

When the township starts experiencing a series of burglaries and strange creatures are captured on home security cameras, Kip, Lucille and Reggie decide to investigate. Little do they know it will lead to an all-out monster battle that they may not survive.

Leo Baker has created an action-packed adventure. The characters are beautifully formed and walk, or rather run, across the pages with humour, bravery and solid friendships. Kip’s voice is real and his interactions with his friends, family and even his enemies are crafted in a way that endears you to each and every one. The showdown near the end of the book is epic and full of nail-biting moments that leave the reader breathless. The novel explores themes such as family, belonging, disability and friendship. Middle Grade readers who enjoy Tristan Bancks books will love this action-packed novel.

For Ages: 8-12 years

Number of Pages: 260

Published: April 2024 Loaf Books

Themes: Family, belonging, friendship and disability.

Purchase here: https://www.booktopia.com.au/tuckshop-terrors-leo-baker/book/9780646823867.html