Bigg School: Scaredy Cat
Ajay is a boy who loves board games, milky chocolate drinks and spending time with his new best friends, Ned and Gabby, who have become best friends since starting secondary school. What Ajay does not love is spending time outdoors.
When a school trip to an outdoor activity centre is announced, Ajay discovers that he doesn’t know everything about his new friends. He had assumed they would hate the outdoors as much as he does, but they can’t wait to go on the school trip. Not wanting to feel left out Ajay doesn’t tell his friends how he feels so he convinces his parents to sign him up for the trip.
In Scaredy Cat we meet a cast of relatable characters who face challenges that will resonate with readers. Williamson’s story centres on the challenges of moving to secondary school. Themes of friendship, bullying, family and courage are interwoven throughout the narrative as Ajay learns how to navigate new friendships while being true to himself.
While Williamson explores important themes her writing style is humorous and engaging, and Bradley’s fun illustrations are well placed throughout. What results is a credible exploration of the challenges encountered when moving school or when trying something that is out of your comfort zone.
Scaredy Cat is the fourth title in the Bigg School series. It can be read as a standalone story but if this is your first Bigg School adventure it is sure to leave you wanting to read the rest of the series.
