Worry Warts

Morris Gleitzman has a remarkable talent for tackling difficult subjects with a delicate touch, and *Worry Warts* is a prime example of this. Twelve-year-old Keith's world is turned upside down by his parents' escalating arguments, fueled by mounting financial strain. Faced with this overwhelming reality, Keith makes a desperate, albeit misguided, decision: he plans to run away to Australia's opal fields, convinced he can strike it rich and solve his family's problems. This premise sets the stage for a poignant exploration of a child's coping mechanisms in the face of adult struggles. *Worry Warts* earns its place on a "Best Books by Morris Gleitzman" list because it exemplifies his signature blend of humor and heart. While the subject matter is serious, Gleitzman infuses Keith's journey with resilience and a dash of hopeful absurdity. Readers will connect with Keith's earnest desire to help his family and will be captivated by his often-hilarious attempts to navigate the adult world and his own burgeoning understanding of complex issues. It’s a story that, like much of Gleitzman's work, demonstrates the strength of the human spirit, particularly in the innocence of youth, even when confronted with the harsh realities of life.