Similar to Sachar’s superb novel Holes (1998), Fuzzy Mud has one foot in reality and the other in a world of greater narrative possibilities – in this case, a biochemical leak that creates a revolting, toxic substance. While the school setting allows Sachar to explore some of the mechanics of persistent, low-level bullying, the forbidden woodland surrounding the school is the setting for the biochemical mishap that three kids get embroiled in – a quiet, conscientious Grade 5 student called Tamaya, her neighbour (and secret crush) Marshall, and Marshall’s bully, Chad.

In between the main narrative, we read excerpts from an investigation into nearby Sunray Farm, producers of ‘Biolene’, the substance invented by a sort of nutty professor. We also get first a subtle and then a graphic understanding of how one mutated organism can multiply and cause disaster. Like Holes, the pacing of this story is spot-on and the main characters are easy to like and have some depth to them. My 11-year-old raced through it straight after me and gave it a double thumbs-up too. An exciting and thoughtful read that suits around 9 and up.

Emily Gale