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The Boy in the Suit
It's not easy to fit in when you're the boy in the suit...
Ten-year-old Solo - embarrassingly, that isn't short for anything - just wants to be normal.
He wants a name that doesn't stand out. He wishes he had a proper school uniform that fitted him. He dreams about a mum who doesn't get the Big Bad Reds, like his mum Morag.
But most of all he longs to stop crashing funerals for the free food.
But when Solo and Morag crash the funeral of a celebrity and get caught, the press are there to witness their humiliation. The next day it's splashed across the papers. Before Solo knows it, he becomes a viral sensation, and life may never be normal again.
Ten-year-old Solo - embarrassingly, that isn't short for anything - just wants to be normal.
He wants a name that doesn't stand out. He wishes he had a proper school uniform that fitted him. He dreams about a mum who doesn't get the Big Bad Reds, like his mum Morag.
But most of all he longs to stop crashing funerals for the free food.
But when Solo and Morag crash the funeral of a celebrity and get caught, the press are there to witness their humiliation. The next day it's splashed across the papers. Before Solo knows it, he becomes a viral sensation, and life may never be normal again.
384 pages, Paperback
Published September 12, 2024
14 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 12, 2025
I'm a bit torn by this book. As a former teacher, I've met many real cases like Solo over the years...
Overall, I enjoyed reading the book. It reminded me of how important it is not to ask children in school to tell you or write about, how good their weekend/holiday was. For many, its grim. It's just that they dont know it. Yet. A good book about kids with issues.
But. And for me it's a big but. The but that meant I didn't give it 5 stars.
But I did not like, or recognise, the depiction of teachers, schools and how this boy was treated.
Primary teachers notice a lot. Yes, sometimes the kids are good at masking, at hiding the truth about life at home. Often school becomes their safe, happy space - they like the routines, knowing there's good everyday and people there whose behaviour is also routine, predictable, kind. There are rules which are applied if they go you far...
In truth, I didn't like how the school and teachers were shown to be uncaring, not noticing anything even surprised by events. At many schools , (Secondary can, I know be very different) we use an electronic system to record our observations, things we've heard things that might, one day, be really important. Primary schools are not perfect but better than media, including books, depicts. It just makes me cross and I knew much of the story was unlikely.
As was the tale of the school trip. These days the Risk assessment rules would not mean that the teacher didn't have a register or forget to do a headcount. A trip is like a military campaign. 30 children out means 30 children back. In an activity Promary children would definitely NOT be wandering around a town. They definitely would not be without supervision or regular check ups. The bus would not do what it did.
That annoyed me too!
So despite being annoyed, I enjoyed reading a well written story of a child in need of parenting. It makes you think. How many more are out there. We need to find them and help them, even if that's the last thing their parents wants, at that moment, to happen
Overall, I enjoyed reading the book. It reminded me of how important it is not to ask children in school to tell you or write about, how good their weekend/holiday was. For many, its grim. It's just that they dont know it. Yet. A good book about kids with issues.
But. And for me it's a big but. The but that meant I didn't give it 5 stars.
But I did not like, or recognise, the depiction of teachers, schools and how this boy was treated.
Primary teachers notice a lot. Yes, sometimes the kids are good at masking, at hiding the truth about life at home. Often school becomes their safe, happy space - they like the routines, knowing there's good everyday and people there whose behaviour is also routine, predictable, kind. There are rules which are applied if they go you far...
In truth, I didn't like how the school and teachers were shown to be uncaring, not noticing anything even surprised by events. At many schools , (Secondary can, I know be very different) we use an electronic system to record our observations, things we've heard things that might, one day, be really important. Primary schools are not perfect but better than media, including books, depicts. It just makes me cross and I knew much of the story was unlikely.
As was the tale of the school trip. These days the Risk assessment rules would not mean that the teacher didn't have a register or forget to do a headcount. A trip is like a military campaign. 30 children out means 30 children back. In an activity Promary children would definitely NOT be wandering around a town. They definitely would not be without supervision or regular check ups. The bus would not do what it did.
That annoyed me too!
So despite being annoyed, I enjoyed reading a well written story of a child in need of parenting. It makes you think. How many more are out there. We need to find them and help them, even if that's the last thing their parents wants, at that moment, to happen
January 11, 2025
I’m not sure how any other books I read in 2025 will top this one! Dang, what a start. This book made me tear up more than once, but it’s such a good read. Will be recommending to everyone I know. Also loved my dog’s best friend made an appearance, IYKYK. 5 stars… would give 6 if I could!
January 11, 2025
A book that made my heart full of all sorts of emotions. Mainly felt very sad for Solo having to go through all of that at such a young age. But it is soooo interesting to read this book from his point of view with his thoughts and understanding his emotions. Highly recommend 5/5!
June 9, 2025
So I really enjoyed this, and it’s certainly a book corner keeper. The story was believable and I felt myself empathising with several of the characters.
But. And it’s a big but.
As a teacher, there is absolutely no way in a million years that anyone would get away with treating Solo the way Mrs Carmichael did. Or with losing two children on a school trip AND returning back to school without them. That part was so unbelievable that I had to deduct a whole star.
But. And it’s a big but.
As a teacher, there is absolutely no way in a million years that anyone would get away with treating Solo the way Mrs Carmichael did. Or with losing two children on a school trip AND returning back to school without them. That part was so unbelievable that I had to deduct a whole star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2024
I was sent an ARC by the publisher in exchange for an honest review so thank you Scholastics as i really loved this book!
This is certainly a story for our times and an important one to tell for several reasons. Meet Solo a young boy who lives with his single mum Morag who has taken to attending funerals for the sole purpose of eating the food on offer. Solo is not very good at keeping a low profile at these events and they are eventually caught out, consequently their lives become more complicated. This book tackles themes around poverty and mental health and the awful impact it can have on children especially when there is no family support network to fall back on. It highlights the importance of community and sharing problems but also it highlights the importance of kindness. My heart broke for Solo who seemed to be fighting a losing battle with both his mum and other adults around him. It is aimed at middle grade readers and so ultimatly it left me feeling hopeful with the understanding that sometimes problems can only be solved with the help of others you just need to know who to ask.
I would highly recommend this book, it would be a great story for 10 or 11 plus and will certainly encourage some great class discussions helping to foster empathy and kindness. It’s also a timely reminder that as adults we need to be more in touch with those around us and make sure we do our own due diligence when it comes to kids that might be struggling.
This book is perfect for fans of Boy at the Back of the Class and Goldfish Boy, I would highly recommend and can’t wait to read more books by this author.
This is certainly a story for our times and an important one to tell for several reasons. Meet Solo a young boy who lives with his single mum Morag who has taken to attending funerals for the sole purpose of eating the food on offer. Solo is not very good at keeping a low profile at these events and they are eventually caught out, consequently their lives become more complicated. This book tackles themes around poverty and mental health and the awful impact it can have on children especially when there is no family support network to fall back on. It highlights the importance of community and sharing problems but also it highlights the importance of kindness. My heart broke for Solo who seemed to be fighting a losing battle with both his mum and other adults around him. It is aimed at middle grade readers and so ultimatly it left me feeling hopeful with the understanding that sometimes problems can only be solved with the help of others you just need to know who to ask.
I would highly recommend this book, it would be a great story for 10 or 11 plus and will certainly encourage some great class discussions helping to foster empathy and kindness. It’s also a timely reminder that as adults we need to be more in touch with those around us and make sure we do our own due diligence when it comes to kids that might be struggling.
This book is perfect for fans of Boy at the Back of the Class and Goldfish Boy, I would highly recommend and can’t wait to read more books by this author.
September 24, 2024
Well that was an absolute rollercoaster of emotions!!! A beautifully written book with some hard hitting themes. A book I think should be read by all children and adults. ABSOLUTE PERFECTION!!
July 28, 2025
4.5/5 - great book
January 14, 2026
loved it so much. nearly cried and was funny at the same time.
November 2, 2024
Solo lives with his mum- known as Morag to everyone, including Solo. She is struggling in myriad ways and spiralling, pulling Solo along with her. Morag’s mental health problems have led to unemployment, poor decisions, estrangement form those who could help and extreme behaviours. Solo, is our fallible narrator, and we read a lot between the lines of his child’s take on proceedings. The effect of this is often heartbreaking.
Things take a very public and very embarrassing turn, when Morag and Solo are caught at a celebrity’s funeral and make the headlines. This is only the start of Solo’s problems. But sometimes, things have to get so much worse before they can begin to get better.
When I first started to read this novel, I worried that the surreal world of funeral crashing would lessen the impact of the wider messages of Solo’s story. As I read the last page, sobbing, I knew what a great job James Fox had done in a) writing an engaging story people are going to read from cover to cover and b) showing the blight of poverty and mental health struggles on people’s lives. Solo’s suit is a sad symbol of his vulnerability. The funeral crashing is a symptom of marginalisation and desperation.
This is a sometimes difficult read- Fox makes you care deeply about the characters and yet we stand by unable to help. We also see the role of schools in the treatment of their young people-getting it very wrong and then the power of getting it right. It definitely made me wince a few times. I really liked the way Morag was ultimately treated with respect as somebody who was ill, despite it causing huge failings in her safeguarding of Solo. It’s also sometimes really funny and I think James Fox has managed to show that the human experience isn’t black and white: you can be down and almost out, but humour persists.
Things take a very public and very embarrassing turn, when Morag and Solo are caught at a celebrity’s funeral and make the headlines. This is only the start of Solo’s problems. But sometimes, things have to get so much worse before they can begin to get better.
When I first started to read this novel, I worried that the surreal world of funeral crashing would lessen the impact of the wider messages of Solo’s story. As I read the last page, sobbing, I knew what a great job James Fox had done in a) writing an engaging story people are going to read from cover to cover and b) showing the blight of poverty and mental health struggles on people’s lives. Solo’s suit is a sad symbol of his vulnerability. The funeral crashing is a symptom of marginalisation and desperation.
This is a sometimes difficult read- Fox makes you care deeply about the characters and yet we stand by unable to help. We also see the role of schools in the treatment of their young people-getting it very wrong and then the power of getting it right. It definitely made me wince a few times. I really liked the way Morag was ultimately treated with respect as somebody who was ill, despite it causing huge failings in her safeguarding of Solo. It’s also sometimes really funny and I think James Fox has managed to show that the human experience isn’t black and white: you can be down and almost out, but humour persists.
September 1, 2025
This book is so very real in a way......
As soon as I first saw this book on GoodReads, I was intrigued. Who is the boy in the suit? Why is he wearing the suit?
I remember seeing the book in my local library but couldn't borrow it as I didn't have my library card and when I wanted to borrow it another time, the book had already been borrowed. The third time, I finally got to borrow the book.....and I'm so glad I did.
I don't often enjoy books that have been released in the past few years.....I know that sounds pretty random and probably kind of weird but it's just something about the modern slang and over-use of pop-culture that irritates me.......thankfully "The Boy In The Suit" avoided that.
Solo felt like such a real character: he had flaws, he had good traits, he had weaknesses and most of all, he had personality. The way he was written felt realistic enough for somebody who is supposed to be 10-years-old but still mature in his own way.
His love for his mum, Morag, was heartwarming in a sense because you don't often see that in kids books (parents are usually an embarrassing liability!) The way she was portrayed as a loving but not-so perfect mother was moving.
This book is probably more for younger kids rather than the teenager I am but I truly enjoyed every bit of it.
This book is author James Fox's debut: I am looking forward to seeing what books he writes next. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
As soon as I first saw this book on GoodReads, I was intrigued. Who is the boy in the suit? Why is he wearing the suit?
I remember seeing the book in my local library but couldn't borrow it as I didn't have my library card and when I wanted to borrow it another time, the book had already been borrowed. The third time, I finally got to borrow the book.....and I'm so glad I did.
I don't often enjoy books that have been released in the past few years.....I know that sounds pretty random and probably kind of weird but it's just something about the modern slang and over-use of pop-culture that irritates me.......thankfully "The Boy In The Suit" avoided that.
Solo felt like such a real character: he had flaws, he had good traits, he had weaknesses and most of all, he had personality. The way he was written felt realistic enough for somebody who is supposed to be 10-years-old but still mature in his own way.
His love for his mum, Morag, was heartwarming in a sense because you don't often see that in kids books (parents are usually an embarrassing liability!) The way she was portrayed as a loving but not-so perfect mother was moving.
This book is probably more for younger kids rather than the teenager I am but I truly enjoyed every bit of it.
This book is author James Fox's debut: I am looking forward to seeing what books he writes next. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
November 25, 2025
Ten year old Solo just wants to be normal. His school uniform doesn't fit, his Mum makes him crash funerals to get free food and then there are the big bad reds which his Mum seems to suffer more with on an ever increasing basis. When Solo and his mum crash the funeral of a celebrity and are caught doing so, suddenly everyone knows their business and then to make matters worse Solo's Mum goes missing.
I don't usually review the books I read with my children but this was such a perfect, beautifully written and moving book about a family struggling to survive that I wanted to share. This is a story about a forgotten family who are struggling to pay for the basics in modern Britain because on the outside everything seems fine. As a consequence, the author explores the mental health implications of living day to day, not knowing where your next meal is coming from and trying to provide a good life for your children while also putting on a brave face for them so they are not weighed down with parental worries. The story also explores that unbreakable bond between child and parent, when it comes down to it, even if they are offered a better life elsewhere, all they really want is their parent to be safe and happy and with them. Moving and funny. I would highly recommend it.
I don't usually review the books I read with my children but this was such a perfect, beautifully written and moving book about a family struggling to survive that I wanted to share. This is a story about a forgotten family who are struggling to pay for the basics in modern Britain because on the outside everything seems fine. As a consequence, the author explores the mental health implications of living day to day, not knowing where your next meal is coming from and trying to provide a good life for your children while also putting on a brave face for them so they are not weighed down with parental worries. The story also explores that unbreakable bond between child and parent, when it comes down to it, even if they are offered a better life elsewhere, all they really want is their parent to be safe and happy and with them. Moving and funny. I would highly recommend it.
February 17, 2025
This one was highly emotional. It was also a really triggering read for me personally, but I'm glad I finished the book.
The Boy in the Suit is a heartfelt and poignant novel that masterfully balances serious themes with moments of humour. Solo, the ten-year-old protagonist, navigates the challenges of his mother's mental health struggles and their financial hardships with a resilience that is both inspiring and endearing. Despite the gravity of his circumstances, Solo's witty observations and the humorous interactions with his friends provide much-needed levity throughout the narrative.
The author's ability to infuse comedy into the story not only makes Solo's journey more relatable but also highlights the importance of hope and laughter in the face of adversity. While the novel delves deep into issues like child poverty and parental mental health, its lighthearted moments ensure an engaging and uplifting read. Fans of middle-grade fiction that tackles real-life issues with a touch of humor will find The Boy in the Suit both moving and entertaining.
A part of me wishes this book had a sequel. But another part of me is glad it doesn't.
The Boy in the Suit is a heartfelt and poignant novel that masterfully balances serious themes with moments of humour. Solo, the ten-year-old protagonist, navigates the challenges of his mother's mental health struggles and their financial hardships with a resilience that is both inspiring and endearing. Despite the gravity of his circumstances, Solo's witty observations and the humorous interactions with his friends provide much-needed levity throughout the narrative.
The author's ability to infuse comedy into the story not only makes Solo's journey more relatable but also highlights the importance of hope and laughter in the face of adversity. While the novel delves deep into issues like child poverty and parental mental health, its lighthearted moments ensure an engaging and uplifting read. Fans of middle-grade fiction that tackles real-life issues with a touch of humor will find The Boy in the Suit both moving and entertaining.
A part of me wishes this book had a sequel. But another part of me is glad it doesn't.
October 15, 2024
4.5/5
As someone who has seen this type of situation play out in real life, I can say how accurate this book portrayed it. While not all stories like this will be the same, I found this such a heartbreaking and heartwarming tale of such a difficult topic. Especially from the child’s perspective.
The author did an incredible job at writing a book for a younger audience on this such a hard hitting theme, while making it accessible for older audiences too. I like to think this would be an amazing read for any child to better understand others, and those you may have negative feelings towards.
I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did and I hope that it gives an insight into how much some may struggle without even realising it. I don’t want to give anything away but I recommend this to everyone🤍
As someone who has seen this type of situation play out in real life, I can say how accurate this book portrayed it. While not all stories like this will be the same, I found this such a heartbreaking and heartwarming tale of such a difficult topic. Especially from the child’s perspective.
The author did an incredible job at writing a book for a younger audience on this such a hard hitting theme, while making it accessible for older audiences too. I like to think this would be an amazing read for any child to better understand others, and those you may have negative feelings towards.
I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did and I hope that it gives an insight into how much some may struggle without even realising it. I don’t want to give anything away but I recommend this to everyone🤍
December 27, 2025
I quite liked this story and it would be a good class read for developing empathy. As an adult reading it, I thought there were a few too many unrealistic aspects. The mum refuses to consider going to a food bank or accepting other offers of help but will, in public view, plead with shopworkers to give her items for free. The media naming and essentially threatening a child. One teacher ignoring Solo's signs of neglect and another member of staff noticing but giving him things rather than raising awareness of it. The farce of the school trip. But I think these are aspects that the majority of the target audience wouldn't be concerned by.
I really liked Chetna and was glad she was there to make sensible decisions. She also worked well as a way for Solo to realise things weren't the way they should be in his life.
I really liked Chetna and was glad she was there to make sensible decisions. She also worked well as a way for Solo to realise things weren't the way they should be in his life.
October 27, 2024
A beautiful, needed book. But definitely one that works well in classroom settings or for emotionally developed kids that work well around sad subject matter. This book beautifully discusses the impact and necessity of community in times of strife, and has important messages on the importance of empathy for all. I think this is a beautiful book, but may be quite a lot for the younger minded children/ younger tweens. I know my young 13 year old sister is very wary of material that she would find challenging, so this would be more difficult for her. This book is not one suited for all, but those who can read it, will find many essential messages.
February 10, 2025
Already my favourite book of 2025, absolutely incredible read that everyone should check out as soon as possible.
I've often bemoaned the lack of Working Class stories in Children's Publishing and this book was the perfect antidote to my complaints. I haven't felt this understood or represented in fiction since I read Jaqueline Wilsons 'The Illustrated Mum' as a little girl.
This book made me laugh, it made me cry and i'll be recommending it to every young reader I met.
I've often bemoaned the lack of Working Class stories in Children's Publishing and this book was the perfect antidote to my complaints. I haven't felt this understood or represented in fiction since I read Jaqueline Wilsons 'The Illustrated Mum' as a little girl.
This book made me laugh, it made me cry and i'll be recommending it to every young reader I met.
September 28, 2024
This was a beautiful, touching book that actually left in with some surprise tears! As someone who works with young people, I know that this is a story all too familiar to many young people but it’s one you won’t find voiced very often.
The perfect book to open up important conversations with young people.
The perfect book to open up important conversations with young people.
October 20, 2024
Wow!! What a whirlwind of emotions in this book. The main theme explores a child’s perspective of the cost of living crisis and the large impact it can have on a family.
Everyone needs a Chetna to be their cheerleader and help you through difficult situations even if you are unsure.
Also covers the supportive network of split-families.
Everyone needs a Chetna to be their cheerleader and help you through difficult situations even if you are unsure.
Also covers the supportive network of split-families.
October 29, 2024
Incredible read! A fantastic insight into child poverty, and how the child goes to all lengths in school to hide the facts from other children and the teachers.
Although this is a child's book, and UKS2 /MG /LKS3 book, I think its an important book for children, young people and adults of all ages to read.
An absolute pleasure to read, even though you want to cry and hug little Solo at times.
Although this is a child's book, and UKS2 /MG /LKS3 book, I think its an important book for children, young people and adults of all ages to read.
An absolute pleasure to read, even though you want to cry and hug little Solo at times.
December 2, 2024
This book has a great theme of mental health, parenting, and social justice especially in UK during this economy. But, sometimes Morag (the Mom) made me so mad I can't enjoy the story anymore lol. However, it's getting better in the middle of the book and the ending is sweet too. It's just - why the worst parent has the best kid?? Not fair, lol
November 9, 2024
4.6/5
I saw it in the bookstore, saw a quote from the author of Tracy Beaker, read the blurb and knew I had to buy. If you like this, I recommend the books (also middle grade appropriate) My Name is Leon by Kit de Waal and After Zero by Christina Collins.
I saw it in the bookstore, saw a quote from the author of Tracy Beaker, read the blurb and knew I had to buy. If you like this, I recommend the books (also middle grade appropriate) My Name is Leon by Kit de Waal and After Zero by Christina Collins.
February 9, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! It was heartwarming , funny and very sad in some places. One of the best books I have ever read! I was always so disappointed when I had to put it down! Very much recommended.
March 19, 2025
Fantastic read! I would absolutely recommend to any Upper KS2 teachers as a class read. It gives lots of opportunities to talk about how we treat each other , mental health and how we never truly know what someone is battling with behind closed doors.
Emotional, funny and heartwarming.
Emotional, funny and heartwarming.
May 2, 2025
Lovely book
The book is just right for a nine year old reader and over. It is deliciously sad and funny , yet like all good middlegrade books , it offers hope... a life that brightens which gives me tremendous joy. It really is the book that incorporates empathy.
The book is just right for a nine year old reader and over. It is deliciously sad and funny , yet like all good middlegrade books , it offers hope... a life that brightens which gives me tremendous joy. It really is the book that incorporates empathy.
July 15, 2025
YA this book deals sensitively with the heavy topics of adult mental.health from a young person's perspective and the impact it has on their life.
You can't help but be very moved by this and be invested in the character. It may be a triggering read for some
You can't help but be very moved by this and be invested in the character. It may be a triggering read for some
December 18, 2025
Put this on the Read for Empathy list! Such a sad story, but also uplifting at times. Sure, it was not always so realistic, especially the school bus leaving without two students, but this is fiction, not journalism. So we’ll allow it!
January 9, 2026
Great sensitive read. The writing style is good, I got happily lost in the story. Nothing to make it unsuitable for younger readers, year 6 plus.
For fans of Jaqueline Wilson and The Final Year, but it's nice that it's a male protagonist too.
For fans of Jaqueline Wilson and The Final Year, but it's nice that it's a male protagonist too.
September 1, 2024
Fighting back the tears was an effort
September 20, 2024
If book makes you cry, then it’s touched your heart and has to be a five star 🥰
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews