Weaves plenty of plot strands in a very short space, and leaves us smiling at the end. Which is definitely the way to do it

An excellent, fast-moving story, full of humour for competent readers

Jacqueline Wilson's easy, humorous style deals lightly with a serious problem. Many children who share Tim's agonies will perhaps take courage from this entertaining story

An exceptionally involving and affecting novel

Funny, page-turning and profound

Could it happen? It has happened. That's why teenagers should read this book.

Rising star: Anna Perera. Her novel highlights the teenagers sent to the camp as it tugs readers into its vivid nightmare journey.

Written in a first-person voice of disarming honesty, the book rings true through all of its many layers

A good read for 11-year-olds who want to know their counterparts a century ago were truly human

A most enjoyable book, full of life, warmth and humour