We run tomorrow by Nat Amoore

The Lockett Street Squad are 11-year-old friends that stick together through thick and thin, bonded by their mutual love of graphic novel series - ‘The Screensavers’. They are so keen about this comic book series that they re-enact storylines and post them on You-tube. This story is told from the perspective of ‘Sticks’ and it is a powerful tale of friendship amid the serious issues of life. When Tommy’s usual life comes crashing down, Sticks, Maki and Jed combine to devise a plan to protect Tommy from being relocated far from Lockett Street. The plan also includes heading to the Gold Coast to audition for roles in the new ‘Screensavers’ movie, kidnapping, and evading police and many other exciting, risky and devious side hustles. This is a story with heart, but it also addresses some quite heart-rending life situations and introduces some wonderful characters and does it with an unexpected twist.

The graphic novel/comic strip launches the book revealing a quirky storyline before the you-tube adventures of the children takes over the narrative. This entry point into the book will immediately appeal to lovers of graphic stories. The hidden reveal in the story involving the character ‘Sticks’ is worthy of secrecy … a clever plot twist that readers need to discover themselves. Although there are serious issues addressed in this story, the Lockett Street Squad are really just a warm and inclusive friendship group who do not let problems get in their way. This was a very enjoyable story – but the intra-family abuse and death of a family member may be confronting for some young readers, so be careful to consider the personal history of children when recommending this.

Themes: Graphic novel, Friendship, Sibling abuse, Fugitives, Grief.

Carolyn Hull