Pete Johnson's skilfully written dialogue takes us into the story on the first page and gives the book a strong sense of immediacy and truth. There is a real menace here, and the accessible story offers food for thought - not easy answers

Engagingly direct in tone, gritty and realistic in theme, this uncompromising, streetwise story is sure to appeal to teenagers

A detective story with an edge . . . An excellent read

Up on Cloud Nine is witty and compelling, the message it carries to adult readers does not make for comfortable reading . . . [A] brave and sometimes brilliant book. And, as always with Anne Fine, the jokes are excellent

This latest novel from the Children's Laureate may be inspired by the phenomenon of teenage suicide, but there is nothing grim or mawkish about it: a wonderfully funny and perceptive glimpse of the inner lives of boys

An original and deeply memorable book . . . How Stolly learned to appreciate his inspirational nature makes for a wonderful and stimulating novel. This is a powerful read that lingers long after the last page is read. Don't miss it

A cracking new book for older children . . . Like all her best work, this book is perfectly pitched to hook in even the most reluctant reader. The tone is fresh, funny and direct while strongly underpinned with genuine emotion

'Thought-provoking ... strong second novel'

'A poignant, delicately composed novel that doesn't stint on the wreckage of violence.'

McKeon ... is a writer to watch. He conveys how people who cause harm can sometimes be victims, in their own way, and that takes skill. If you enjoy Colum Mcann's work, this novel is for you.'

'... beautifully written, placed in those grey shadows between right and wrong and profound, terrible loss.'

A beautifully crafted story about the legacy of trauma

A supreme storyteller