Big Words by Luke Palmer is one of the most powerful books you’ll read this year. Exploring masculinity for teen boys and what it means to be strong, it unpicks layers of friendship, forgiveness and trust.
Kiln, the local waste ground, is a forbidden place (which makes it all the more appealing for Sam and his friends). It’s where bravado, challenge and risk come together in a dangerous concoction. Even with the most over-the-top ideas, there’s no backing down. When Sam suggests sledging on the rusty bonnet of an abandoned car, no one can say no. One high-speed run after another leads to disastrous consequences.
Suddenly, there’s a question of who can keep a secret. If an adult discovers the truth, it’s the end of Kiln and all their adventures there. Betrayal, anger and revenge take over the group as each boy realises what is truly important – and it isn’t messing around in the dirt. Sam goes through a turbulent journey of discovery about what it really means to be “big” or “a man”. This process shows him exactly what it doesn’t mean while revealing the capability he has within himself to become more mature, have respect (for himself and others), make measured decisions, speak with honesty and have integrity. He realises the value of vulnerability and the safety that can be found within a supportive community. Instead of hiding behind being “big”, he takes positive steps to uncover the gifts he has to offer. He begins to understand the kind of man he wants to be.
Authentic and honest, overflowing with real personality, Big Words is essential reading for teens. It would make an incredibly powerful KS3 class read. Young people will be able to see bits of themselves, their friends and the kind of situations real teens experience. Sharing this book in schools will allow adults to support readers with questions and challenges as they come to understand what it means to be “big” and make choices about how they will face the world.
Barrington Stoke can always be relied on to create entertaining, meaningful, empathy-filled stories that are accessible and empowering for readers. With dyslexia-friendly font, spacing and page tint, everyone can enjoy these books. The manageable length and carefully chosen vocabulary encourages success and brings children back for more.
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| Primary English In Action by Kate Heap will be published in August 2026. Preorder it now! |
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