Freak the Mighty selected for Booked Up 2007
Rodman Philbrick's classic book Freak the Mighty has been selected for the BookTrust Booked Up scheme to encourage Year 7 children to read for pleasure.
Freak the Mighty is a poignant and uplifting story of friendship triumphing over adversity.
"As funny as it is touching and convincing."
The Guardian
"Moving and inspirational."
The Funday Times
"A small classic."
The Sunday Times
The Booked Up scheme is sponsored by the Department of Education and Skills and enables each child in participating schools to choose a free book from 12 titles selected by a BookTrust panel of librarians, booksellers, teachers, journalists, and children’s book reviewers.
“I think this scheme will boost all children's reading for pleasure and really help bridge the Year 6 to 7 gap for children, as they make that difficult move to a new secondary school."
Michael Rosen, newly appointed Children's Laureate
On hearing that Freak the Mighty had been included in the Booked Up scheme, Rodman Philbrick wrote: "In terms of bringing illumination to the world, Booked Up is the best invention since the light bulb. If imagination is a muscle that needs to be regularly exercised - and I believe it is - then this wonderful program will improve and expand the imaginations of an entire generation of children. It's a great honour and privilege to make this list."
Rodman Philbrick has won numerous awards and honours, including the prestigious California Young Reader Medal, the Arizona Young Readers’ Award and the New York State "Charlotte" Award. Of Freak the Mighty he has written: "It was my privilege to know an extraordinary young man who lived with a rare spinal condition that meant he would never be much more than three feet tall. Despite severe medical problems and an uncertain future, my brilliant young friend faced life with unconquerable spirits. His remarkable personality inspired me to write an entirely fictional story, called Freak the Mighty."
More books by Rodman Philbrick
Lobster Boy
"Beautifully written and instantly enthralling, Lobster Boy will again have readers hooked on Rodman Philbrick."
The Funday Times
The Fire Pony
"Full of warmth, humanity and interesting detail … Teenagers should love it and find it memorable."
School Librarian Journal
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