When Anton Muller arrives at Wolfdog Hall, he knows it is a terrible place. The only thing he will learn in his classes is how to survive the bullies and the strict teacher’s punishments. His dead father’s words sound in his head. “If you’ve got a bad deal, get out of it and move on.” And he does just that.

With a constant fear of being chased, hunted down and discovered he finds himself on a migrant ship heading for a better life. He is still grieving for his mum, knows no-one, and has no food or shelter. He’s scared too because he’s heard what happens to stowaways.

There are others on the ship who are also grieving and searching for a better future. A mother and son have lost someone too, and soon see Anton’s need and kindness. After learning Anton’s past, the mother takes him under her wing, hoping he can help her with her mentally challenged son.

It’s only after Anton is in an accident does she learn what happened the night her other son died. Anton is just as shocked as she is, but can finally see a real chance at a bright future.

Another great story for reluctant readers – especially boys, with a surprise twist at the end. At only 102 pages, it is not too challenging, and will capture a reader early in the story.

I felt for Anton and his plight, and then the woman and her son who had lost his twin brother. It is also a topical story, portraying kindness between strangers, which our world needs in its ever-growing migrant crisis.

Author – Paul Jennings

Illustrator – Geoff Kelly

Age – 10+

(Migrant, Grief, Kindness, Ship, Orphan, Reluctant Readers, Quick Read)