Keedie is the powerful prequel to Elle McNicoll's stunning middle grade novel A Kind of Spark (2020). Keedie (and her twin, Nina) are 13 years old. Life at school is difficult - bullies think they can treat people any way they please and fitting in is everything. Bold and brave, Keedie values honesty and integrity. She doesn't want to be like everyone else. She longs for a world where empathy, justice and compassion are what are truly important.
Keedie can't stand to see others being bullied - so much so that she starts an anti-bullying agency. If the teachers won't deal with the on-going targeting of anyone who is slightly different from the "cool kids", then she will.
Despite being twins, Nina couldn't be more different from Keedie. Neuro-typical and trying to navigate her way through her early teen years, she is desperate to fit in. She's embarassed by Keedie and doesn't understand why she has to be so difficult. They don't seem to have anything in common and the fact that they're twins is almost impossible to believe.
As the mum of 13 year-old twins myself, the idea of life taking them on seperate paths is difficult to think about. Keedie reflects on this growth and change so beautifully:
"I think of us as trees. Trees grow all kinds of ways depending on light and a number of other elements, and they are what they are. They can grow in different directions. They can twist and climb and transform.
We can grow in different directions, that's fine. Our roots will always be deep beneath the earth and linked together, keping us tied even if other people cannot see it."
Addie is only 6 years old. Not yet diagnosed as neuro-divergent, she is trying to find her way through a world where everything is overwhelming. She loves sharks and her big sisters. It's Keedie's greatest fear that Addie will experience the same harsh judgement she has. Keedie would do anything to protect Addie - if only the adults in her life would give her half a chance!
Keedie's journey is equal parts frustrating and empowering. She sees her neuro-divergence as the strength it is. Her compassion and advocacy ensure her voice is heard, even if her impulsiveness lands her in some tricky situations. This is a story as important for adults as for children. It will challenge teachers and others who work with young people to examine their attitudes and reflect on how they treat children who do not fit the mould.
Regardless of their age, readers will be inspired to be themselves no matter what - to find their strength, stand up for what they believe in and protect others. Themes of sisterhood, the importance of true friendship and the power that comes from honesty make this a book to come back to again and again. Like A Kind of Spark in 2020, this book needs to be in every class and school library, finding its way into the consciousness of every child. Together, the powder of change really will find its spark.
Thank you so much to Knights Of & Ed Public Relations for this fantastic book.
I was thrilled to be able to use an extract from A Kind of Spark in my contemporary fiction reading comprehension book for Years 5-6:
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