Bruises

This book explores many of the problems of adolescence especially bullying. These problems seem insurmountable, especially in light of the blindness of adults who are meant to protect the victims. Fusillo graphically portrays the helplessness and frustration of those victimised by bullying. Brad is also fighting prejudice based only on appearances. Another issue dealt with is the fuzziness of men’s roles, the requirement that men behave in particular ways, and especially that they cannot express any emotion except rage. When Brad goes missing in the furious sea, it is the final straw for all the boys, floundering as they are in their overwhelming ocean of adolescence. The contradictory messages of what it is to be a man, from parents, teachers and peers, confuse, frustrate and ultimately, betray the boys. They learn that sometimes tears are the only appropriate way to continue. Another taut, exciting book from Archimede Fusillo, //Bruises// will find an eager readership with teenage boys. I highly recommend it, especially (but as always not only) for boys. It is realistic and gripping. It would be a useful book to use, not only for the vivid writing but the competent dealing with difficult issues. Rosemary Horton, Trinity College //CMIS//
 * Age 14+ School camps are meant to be fun. Usually it’s a bit more complicated than that. This camp is going to be dreadful for Falco, who is full of trepidation to be in the same space with Ape and his friends. Falco is also labouring with trouble at home. His sick brother, Val takes all his parents’ attention, and he is overwhelmed by guilt and resentment. The pressures of peers and teachers are just the final straw. The dread becomes even worse when Falco has to share rooms with the terrifying bully and his friends - and ostensibly meant to be in charge!**