Book Reviews

"Scrum" by Tom Palmer

Scrum by Tom Palmer, reviewed by Marc Etherington

This book, written in the first person, follows the story of Stephen. He is a 14-year-old boy who lives with his mother and her partner in Leeds and has a strong relationship with his father. The story begins with Stephen being told by his mother that she is going to marry her partner and together they will be relocating to the south of England. The themes explored in this book for Stephen are relocation, and being torn between two male role models and two homes.

I was very impressed how the book explored Stephen’s feelings in a child friendly manner. I read about Stephen’s hope that his mother and father would still one day reconcile, his fears in relocating, his conflict choosing between Rugby Union or Rugby League and his attempts in trying to make all members of his family happy. I found it interesting that the book further identified how children can identify the views of a parent simply by observing their body language or listening to the tone of their voice. This is something perhaps parents are often unaware of when communicating with their children.

By trying to please all, this inevitably proves too much for Stephen causing him distress and the relationship with his father to breakdown. Indeed, Stephen’s father appears so consumed by his own aspirations that he loses sight of Stephen’s wishes and feelings. Without spoiling the ending I am pleased to say the story does finish on a positive note.

The book itself is aimed for children who are aged 8 but could be suitable for children slightly older as well. It appears the author has worked hard to make sure that this book is easy to read so that it is also suitable for children who are dyslexic. Indeed, there is a very inspiring forwarding note from Kenny Logan, a well know rugby union player, who himself is dyslexic.

This book was an enjoyable read, easy to follow and touched on several issues that can arise in Family Law. It is a book I would recommend for children who perhaps may face similar challenges to that experienced by Stephen.