Bumface

Angus's life is far from the swashbuckling adventures he spins for his younger siblings. Instead of being the bold, brave pirate "Bumface" he longs to be, Angus is bogged down by the relentless reality of a demanding toddler and a baby on the way. His mother's endearing nickname, "Mr Dependable," feels like a crushing weight as he struggles to cope with the everyday chaos, fearing another child will push him over the edge. In a desperate attempt to reclaim some semblance of control and avoid disaster, Angus hatches a daring plan to prevent his mother from becoming pregnant, a plan that leads him straight to Rindi, and a world of complications he hadn't even begun to anticipate. Morris Gleitzman is renowned for his ability to tackle serious themes with a potent blend of humor and heart, and *Bumface* is a prime example of this talent. The novel expertly captures the overwhelming pressures and anxieties of childhood responsibility, particularly when faced with significant family changes. Angus's plight, while framed through the lens of childhood desires and a touch of absurdity, resonates deeply with the universal experience of feeling inadequate and the yearning for escape. Gleitzman's characteristic wit ensures that even in its exploration of difficult subjects like the stress of parenting and the fear of an impending sibling, the story remains engaging and ultimately hopeful, making it a standout addition to his collection of beloved books for young readers.