Owen and his mum are struggling. It’s just the two of them at home since they lost his dad. Owen has to care for his mum, do the household chores and go to school. Owen finds it difficult to speak in class, but his English teacher wants him to read aloud a poem at the opening of the school library.
Owen discovers a crumbling stone soldier in the local park, and shares with him his worries and concerns. He discovers that the Council want to revamp the area and remove the statue. Owen’s scared that he’ll be left on his own again, but can he find the courage he needs to save the soldier before it’s too late?
Owen, a courageous young man, overcomes his fears to stand up for what he believes in to try to save the statue of the soldier, who has become his confidante during difficult times.
A poignant story dealing with caring for a parent, social anxiety, and remembrance. It was shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Awards 2020 and the Children’s Book Award 2020. Particularly suited to dyslexic, reluctant and struggling readers.
