Glitter Boy
Ian Eagleton
“You are an inspiration!” – Mariah Carey on Ian Eagleton “Poignant, defiantly fabulous story” - Guardian “Glitter Boy is a nuanced, heart-warming and character led story of finding joy and love ” – Elle McNicoll, author of A Kind of Spark “An unflinching and ultimately uplifting read about identity, and finding the strength to be your true self. Brilliant for group discussion.” – Empathy Lab A Polari-Prize-winning author presents an unforgettable story about a boy facing up to bullying – and his own truths. James loves dancing, poetry, and Mariah Carey (not in that order, though, because Mariah would obviously be first!). His teacher, Mr Hamilton, is getting married to his boyfriend and it seems that James will be part of a surprise choir performance at the wedding. But James’s father seems uncomfortable about the plan, and a lot of other things – like any mention of Mr Hamilton, and James’s dancing, and how James talks about his new friend Joel. Meanwhile, a different boy has been harassing James at school and calling him gay, and it’s getting worse every day. James can find relief with his beloved Nan, she’s been having worrying falls, and James can’t tell anyone, or she might be sent to a faraway care home. The secrets are building up, and James is starting to lose his characteristic spark. Can he find the strength to let the truth out? A joyful, raw and timely novel about family, friends, enemies, and being true to who you really are. Perfect for fans of Alex Gino, A.M. Dassu, and The Boy At the Back of the Class. Ian Eagleton is the author of Nen and the Lonely Fisherman, which was shortlisted for The Bookseller’s Book Of The Year – Discovery Category 2022
Reviews
James is a fabulous dancing glittering shimmering bundle of happiness (who although is trying to deal with them) has little small dark problems creeping into his life. How will James deal with these problems? Will he carry on shining? Well, read it to find out. I absolutely loved this book because it's written really well and although it is fiction it could be true. It's a fun book and I would recommend this book to 10+. WARNING! It's to good to put down.
Doctor Kiki Fascination 21.04.2024
Star Reviewer
I loved this book so much because it was all about accepting people from an LGBTQ+ community and accepting people for who they are. This boy got bullied for being gay and he has to face up to the person and show him that it’s okay to be gay - it was fantastic!
Officer Venus Custard 27.12.2023
This book certainly gives you pause for thought. Would recommend for KS2 and all teachers.
Anonymous 25.08.2023
A thought provoking, powerful, emotional read. James is bright, he sparkles, he shines, he is Glitter! But, when Paul the class bully repeatedly pokes fun, kicks and uses *that word*, James starts to retreat into himself. Add to this, Nan passing away and a growing distance between James and his best friends, he needs help to find himself again. A story that explores finding yourself, friend and family relationships and how others perceive who we are/“what we should be”. It’s superbly written and explores each aspect of the story, sensitively, with love and humour. James is a beautiful character and the messages within the book should be taken has a learning opportunity for all who read it - allowing each other to embrace who we are, our differences and the importance of listening to each other. A highly recommended read, a hugely important book.
Anonymous 14.08.2023
I love this book because James is brave and stands up to his bully Paul. James nana dies and he thinks his dad doesn’t understand him. He likes Joel and thinks he might be gay. I recommend this book so mucj
Mademoiselle Lacey Racoon 29.07.2023
Star Reviewer
