PRESENT TAKERS - Softcover

Chambers, Aidan

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0370309677 ISBN 13: 9780370309675

Publisher: Random House UK, 1987

Synopsis

Lucy is tormented by class bullies who demand that she bring them gifts.

About this title

From AudioFile:

By writing this book, Aidan Chambers has done a service to all who are suffering at the hands of bullies. The "present takers" are girls, led by Melanie Prosser, who bully Lucy Hall after her birthday. Lucy decides to stand up to them; in doing so, she wins the admiration of her classmates and acquires her first boyfriend. Narrator Lisa Coleman is splendid, demonstrating the extremes of emotion inherent in such a situation. Also her portrayal of vastly different parents and parental styles is excellent. Listeners are left guessing until the end of the story as Coleman's pace is perfectly maintained. An outstanding mix of entertainment and a worthwhile lesson. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine

From School Library Journal:

Grade 4-6-Bullies have spoiled Lucy Hall's birthday and they are threatening to ruin her entire year in Aidan Chamber's novel. A gang of aggressive girls led by the intimidating Melanie Prosser has chosen Lucy as their newest target for extortion and humiliation, and Lucy is unwilling and unable to defend herself or ask for help. The girls inflict both physical and mental torture on Lucy until she can hardly face another day at school. Lucy isn't sure why classmate Angus Burns is offering assistance against the bullies, but he may be her only ally and chance for protection. Lisa Coleman skillfully narrates this novel, giving distinct voices to each character. These distinctions are critical, because the settings change without warning and listeners are often transferred between students' individual homes and the schoolyard. Chambers has done a fine job of illustrating the motives behind each character's actions, which makes this a worthwhile listening experience. The audience can recognize that Melanie is being neglected by her parents, and that Lucy is too ashamed to tell her parents or teachers about the harassment. The menacing tone of the story builds throughout, until Lucy and her classmates find a way to put an end to Melanie and her gang. An additional purchase, particularly for schools where bullying is an issue.
Casey Rondini, Westerly Public Library, RI
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About this edition

• Publisher: Random House UK
• Publication date: 1987
• ISBN 10: 0370309677
• ISBN 13: 9780370309675
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 128