Big Words

Award-winning author Luke Palmer masterfully captures the intricate dynamics of teenage friendship in this compelling tale of misadventure, resentment and reconciliation.

Biggest goes first – always. That’s one of the unspoken rules of Kiln, the forbidden wasteland where Sam and his mates hang out. So when Sam comes up with a plan to go sledging on the rust-ridden bonnet of a rotting car, he goes first. To show the others how it’s done.

His mates aren’t so keen. But there’s no complaining. No backing down. Those are the other rules of Kiln. Even when they lead to disaster.

Will their friendship survive the wreckage that follows, or is it time for the rules to be changed?

Particularly suitable for readers aged 11+ with a reading age of 8.

Reviews

"Luke’s books are so important for teen readers and Big Words is another powerful, essential read. Luke’s writing is always so authentic and I’ve said before that I wish I had his books when I was a teen as he beautifully captures the complexities of male teen friendships … Gritty yet sensitive, Big Words shows the true power of how we can feel big about ourselves, it’s a must-have from Luke!" — Check 'Em Out Books, blog

About the author

Luke Palmer is an award-winning author, poet and secondary-school teacher. He has written three acclaimed books for young adults, with his debut, Grow, being shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award, while Play was shortlisted for the prestigious Carnegie Medal for Writing.