Poppy's Hero - Softcover

Rachel Billington

3.12

32 ratings by Goodreads

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1847801927 ISBN 13: 9781847801920

Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2012

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When Poppy discovers that her father Frank is in prison, she is angry and bewildered. Seeing her wonderful, heroic father in a London prison looking pale, subdued and in prison clothes, she suddenly has a brilliant idea: to free her father. She and her friend Will invent all kinds of escape ideas for him - until she hears that he has been removed to a prison far away on an island, with five years to serve. But when the prison decides to stage a musical using professionals and prisoners, Frank is picked for the lead role. It is then that the questions begin... The story of a feisty girl, and how she deals with the pain of her dad's downfall, has much to say about the harsh realities faced by the unlucky children of prisoners.

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Review:

This is an enjoyable read, for adults as well as for younger readers. It could help adults - inside or outside prison - to think a bit more about the 160,000 children with parents in prison, and what they go through. But far more importantly, it could help children like Poppy who have a parent inside. Her story might help them feel less alone.

(Inside Time)

'This is an accomplished and perceptive story of a feisty, yet angry and bewildered girl as she deals with the pain of her dad's downfall when he goes to prison. Rachel Billington tenderly explores the complex emotions of children like Poppy.'

(Julia Eccleshare)

I would recommend it to other teenagers.

(reviewed by a teenager Teen Titles)

This book is an excellent read ... with an original storyline, interesting format and a believable ending.

(School Librarian)

a fast-moving story about family, friends and adventure.

(School Librarian)

Sharply realistic, far removed from many stories on this theme, in which the accusation against a parent turns out to be an unjust and horrible mistake.

(Books for Keeps)

A well observed story inspired by the author's 20 years of prison work.

(Independent on Sunday)

About the Author:

Poppy's hero is Rachel Billington's fifth novel for children. She's also published twenty adult novels, the latest, The Missing Boy, about a thirteen year old who runs away from home. Rachel has been an editor and regular contributor to Inside Time, the national newspaper for prisoners, since it was founded over twenty years ago. Insights arising from her prison work emerges in this new childrens' novel. She has four children and five grandchildren, all keen readers. Rachel is married to the film and theatre director, Kevin Billington. They have four children, five grandchildren, and live in Notting Hill, London and near Sherborne, Dorset.

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