NZ Writer
Fleur Beale
Speed Freak
Random House 2013 $19.99pb 240 pages
ISBN 978 1 7755 3470 9
Themes: Competition/ Fathers and sons/ Kart racing
Fifteen-year-old Archie is in the running for selection to
drive his kart in Europe but before he can be considered there are many hurdles
in his way. First there is Craig who is his main rival and who has a father
with enough money to buy his son’s way into the Challenge. And then there is
Silver, back in racing after a break but she is now stronger and more
determined than ever. Life on the home front has its problems as well – Dad and
his intense relationship with his girlfriend, Erica, irritates and worries
Archie, particularly as she is totally anti-karting. Fleur Beale has managed to
put herself inside the head of a fifteen-year-old boy and find his voice (I know because I have tried it out on a fifteen-year-old)
so be prepared for some strong language and emotions. I personally have no interest whatsoever in kart racing but
such is the power of the story I found myself awake last night and reading
until well past midnight to be totally involved and feel happy with such a satisfying
ending.
Year 9 up/ Age 13 up
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