Billy Elliot

Told through the perceptions of a range of characters, this faithful book of the film captures the raw energy and political statement of the original, creating a thoroughly readable novel, which will make reading as non-wimpish as Billy made ballet. Some parents might balk at the realism of the dialogue in Billy's strike-riven, working-class mining village; seeing it written will perhaps offend, even though it is easily overlooked, when heard in the cinema. I hope kids are allowed the chance to get past this into the skilfully told tale of pursuing a dream with dedication and determination, making the most of whatever talent you have and winning despite all the odds. Full marks to Melvin Burgess. My pupils were clamouring for the book once they'd seen it on my desk.