Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
By Author / Illustrator
Benjamin Dean, Sandhya Prabhat
Genre
Representation & Inclusion
Age range(s)
7+
Publisher
Simon & Schuster Ltd
ISBN
9781471199738
Format
Paperback / softback
Published
04-02-2021
Synopsis
Things aren't going great for Archie Albright. His dad's acting weird, his mum too, and all he wants is for everything to go back to normal, to three months before when his parents were happy and still lived together. When Archie sees a colourful, crumpled flyer fall out of Dad's pocket, he thinks he may have found the answer. Only problem? The answer might just lie at the end of the rainbow, an adventure away.
Together with his best friends, Bell and Seb, Archie sets off on a heartwarming and unforgettable journey to try and fix his family, even if he has to break a few rules to do it...
Reviews
jennifer
This is the joyful and heart warming story of 12 year old Archie and his family. Archie has been struggling to cope with the recent separation of his mum and dad and the changed family dynamics and now, eavesdropping on his parents hushed and tense conversations, Archie discovers that his dad is , in fact, gay and in torment as to how to come out to Archie and still be his beloved , familiar dad.
Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow sensitively explores the emotional journey of the whole family, although Archie's story is the epicentre of the action. Trying to absorb all this new, confusing information, Archie turns to very Best Friends Seb and Bell and to older babysitter, Oscar, for words of wisdom. Archie's mission to reconnect with his awkward, worried father leads the group on a secret journey to London and to its Pride parade and the wealth of characters, experiences and emotions that this diverse and unique event will bring.
This gloriously colourful and vibrant story celebrates the strength and unity of the LGBT community and also a family determined to regroup and reform themselves, despite the huge changes they face. It is the fun and lively adventure of three young friends having an amazing, unforgettable day in the big city - eyes popping out at the rainbow-coloured sights and sounds. There is a sense of exhilaration and wonder throughout the whole story as Archie and Bell experience Pride for the very first time. The author joyfully layers on the visuals , sounds and festivity in an explosion of rich details.
This is an emotionally warm, genuine and moving story about acceptance of yourself and acceptance of others, as well as a reflection on the bonds of family and friendship that can't be broken, despite of differences. Absolutely packed with positive representations and rejoicing in the vitality of the LGBT community, this was a real pleasure to read.
Suggested Reading Age 7+