Eleven-year-old James loves dancing, poetry and Mariah Carey. His teacher, Mr Hamilton, is getting married to his boyfriend, and it looks like James will be part of a surprise choir performance at the wedding. But James’ father seems very uncomfortable about the plan, and a lot of other things - like any mention of Mr Hamilton, and James’ dancing, and the way James talks about his new friend Joel. Meanwhile, a different boy has been harassing James at school, calling him gay, and it’s getting worse every day. James can find relief with his wonderful Nan, but she’s been having worrying falls, and James can’t tell anyone, or she might be sent to a care home. The secrets start building up, and James is starting to lose his characteristic spark. Will he find the strength to let the truths come out?

IAN EAGLETON

Ian is the director of The Reading Realm. He is also a content creator and resource writer for various educational organisations, including The Literacy Shed and Authorfy. Ian has taught in primary schools for 13 years and during this time has been a member of the senior management team, a phase leader, and literacy co-ordinator. He has an NQPSL, which focused on improving reading. Ian has also run staff training and writing workshops for children. He especially enjoys sharing picture books, poetry and creative writing activities with the children he teaches.