Review - Fallout


Fallout by Lesley Parr, cover art by David Dean, published by Bloomsbury 

I always love Lesley Parr's books, but with music and protest at its heart, and a historical setting (I can't believe I'm calling the 80s historical!) close to my heart, this might just be my favourite yet. 

Marcus is a Pritchard, and everyone knows that Pritchards are trouble. With his family pulling him into a life of crime and the community having damned him as a criminal already, when there's an incident at the local carnival parade, everyone knows who's to blame...

Luckily, new friend Emma sees the real Marcus and together they set out to figure out the truth. They're a brilliant pair whose friendship has a fiery start but who balance each other perfectly. 

I loved this, it's a story of friendship, of stereotypes and fighting against both a family you don't feel you belong in and a society and community that has judged you before you've ever had a chance.

Lesley Parr's ability to write real, working-class characters and small Welsh communities is second to none (sadly my ability to read them in a Welsh accent in my head is less impressive...doesn't stop me trying though!) and the characters here are that perfect mix of loveable and loathable, but hugely recognisable and believable. 

And on that note, a special mention for Mick, Marcus' older neighbour who takes him under his wing, and who was my favourite character (he reminded me in a way of Mr Tom, who is maybe one of my favourite fictional grown ups). If only every Marcus had a Mick. 

Funny, moving, thought-provoking and, while historical, immensely relevant still. Read it. Then listen to The Jam.

Fallout playlist here.

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