Mo, Lottie and the Junkers

By Author / Illustrator

Jennifer Killick

Genre

Adventure

Age range(s)

Publisher

Firefly Press Ltd

ISBN

9781910080924

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

18-04-2019

Synopsis

Mo Appleby's ordered life is turned upside down when he and his mum move in with his new stepdad and stepsisters, Lottie and Sadie. The home he left behind is just across the street, and there's something not quite right about the new occupant. Other strange new people keep popping into his life, too: a bonkers lollipop man and a boy called Jax, who seems to understand Mo better than anyone else, especially Lottie.Who are the weird new people in their town? Do they have any involvement in the disappearance of Mo's dad many years ago? And why does the ice cream taste so good? Lottie is determined to find out exactly what's going on, even if it makes Mo mad, and even if it leads them both into serious danger...

Reviews

Mo, Lottie and the Junkers is a new adventure from Jennifer Killick. Cleverly presented as a Vlog from Mo and Lottie, unlikely friends and nearly step siblings, this story will capture the imaginations of adults and children of all ages. It is hard to review without spoiling the plot as much action takes place straight away and the book provides instant questions that you feel you must read on to answer. Mo and Lottie come together as unlikely friends when their parents move in together. Their new neighbour is a sinister character and they straight away set to investigating the mysterious Junkers. The development of a new, blended family coming together will resonate with children who have experienced the same. Their evidence for solving the mystery is presented as Exhibits throughout the Vlog narration. This book has strong themes of family and friendship as well as resilience and determination. Humour is strong throughout the book and fans of comedy, adventure and sci-fix will enjoy it greatly. Highly recommended in any classroom, library or home book shelf to promote the sheer joy and pleasure books can bring. Warning: it will make you wary of ice cream vans all summer long! 220 pages / Ages 9+ / Reviewed by Bryony Davies, teacher