Orphan Boy

Seen through the eyes of 13-year-old Lafayette, this is the story of three brothers, each locked in their own grief and guilt after the sudden death of their mother. Deep feelings and family secrets are revealed as, despite the odds against them, the brothers learn to pull together.

Tom Falconer is in trouble. Pursued by the notorious criminal Ratsey, Tom soon finds himself alone and hungry on the streets of London. Luckily enough, the mysterious Dr Mobius soon recruits Tom to play an important role in a play to be performed in front of Queen Elizabeth. Tom knows there’s something not right about Mobius, but he’s willing to take a risk in order to keep his neck out of Ratsey’s murderous hands.

In Arcady's Goal, by Newbery Honor author Eugene Yelchin, for 12-year-old Arcady, soccer is life. Sent to live in a children's home after his parents are declared enemies of the state, he plays to win his dinner, and to maintain his sanity. When a visiting inspector decides to adopt him, Arcady questions his motivations. Who could want an enemy of the people as a son?