SuitabookCliffhanger
Jacqueline Wilson
- Reading
- If separation, bullying or adventure-course peril could be sensitive, read the opening together and pause before the camp challenges. Afterwards, compare physical performance with planning, persistence and teamwork.
- Themes
- Different kinds of ability: Tim struggles with sports but helps his team through an idea involving a loose drainpipe and water. The reported challenge invites discussion of whether practical thinking can be valued alongside physical skill.
- Friendship under pressure: Tim and Biscuits are described as forming a friendship despite having little in common, while the holiday places Tim among unfamiliar children. The relationship can support conversation about how friendship may develop across differences.
- Pressure from adults and peers: Tim’s father sends him to the holiday despite his objection, and Giles is described as a bully. This provides an opening to consider whether Tim is heard by adults and how peer behaviour affects participation.
- Worth knowing
- Some children may want preparation for scenes involving being sent away against Tim’s wishes, strenuous or elevated activities, separation from parents, losing a comfort object and sharing space with a bullying child.