Bigg School: Secret Crush

Astrid is a different from the rest of the girls in her Y7 class, and she likes it that way.  She loves to read and is a keen member of the Scribble Society, where she enjoys creative writing.  She is best friends with Lola and is happy with her life.  When new boy Teddy joins the school, Astrid is delighted to find that he loves the same books she does - at last she has someone to talk to about Dragon Tamers!  They become friends and enjoy spending time together.  But when Astrid realises that she has developed a crush on Teddy, everything changes for her. Will she have to change who she is to make him feel the same way about her?

Bigg School: Secret Crush is a beautifully written book. Lisa Williamson manages to really get under the skin of her pre-teen characters, and delivers an entertaining, heartwarming and funny story.  With its themes of friendship and first love, this book will appeal to all who read it.

Astrid is such a lovely person, quirky and funny, she is a true original.  When she finds out that Teddy likes another girl, Astrid is devastated and tries to change her appearance so as to be more like her rival.  But with the help and support of Lola, her most loyal supporter, she learns that being yourself is the most important thing.

The Bigg School series just gets better and better. The author gives a sympathetic insight into the ups and downs of secondary school life. This is the third novel in the series and with each book the cast of characters grows. This book is sweet and touching, but carries an important message - don't try to change yourself to impress others.

Jess Bradley's fun, cartoon style illustrations add the perfect finishing touch to a fabulous book - I predict waiting lists at school libraries everywhere and I cannot wait for the next Bigg School adventure!

224 pages / Reviewed by Beverley Somerset, school librarian

Suggested Reading Age 9+