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Primes
Primes is a science fiction story of one boy’s search for the truth and his quest to save his family. Ben is 12 years old. His real father has passed away and his step father is a mean-hearted bully. His baby brother is ill and Ben feels ineffective at supporting his mum. He is isolated and alone.
In the haze of Ben’s turbulent life, two new children arrive at Ben's school. They radiate an otherness; a divine serenity that glows like a beacon. Ben is inexplicably drawn to the children who become intertwined in his quest across space to save his family and for the truth that lies veiled in his past.
Primes is a stellar science fiction novel for children aged 8 -14. Andrew Crossland is a primary school teacher with over 10 years experience.
In the haze of Ben’s turbulent life, two new children arrive at Ben's school. They radiate an otherness; a divine serenity that glows like a beacon. Ben is inexplicably drawn to the children who become intertwined in his quest across space to save his family and for the truth that lies veiled in his past.
Primes is a stellar science fiction novel for children aged 8 -14. Andrew Crossland is a primary school teacher with over 10 years experience.
160 pages, Paperback
First published April 13, 2014
1 person is currently reading
220 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Crossland
9 books3 followersAndrew Crossland is a primary school teacher teaching in the North of England. He is the co-ordinator of: science, art, DT and school council within a main stream school. Before going into teaching, he attained a first class geography degree at the University of Newcastle. Andrew is the author of the books Outstanding Teaching in a Primary School Classroom and Primes.
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
February 16, 2015
‘Primes’ is a terrific story that will appeal to readers who love humour, sci-fi and adventure.
Twelve-year-old Ben’s life has been devastated by the death of his father. The only links he has to him are the lingering memory of his stories and the beautiful constellation painted above his bed. Ben’s life is grim with an abusive stepfather and his mother’s attention diverted by his baby brother Leo’s serious illness. Ben finds friendship and consolation through his best friend Olivia, who is dealing with her older brother Bradley, a chilling physical and verbal bully. The characters do not wallow in their dire situations but rather engage in humour and offer each other mutual support. The arrival of the mysterious Skylar and Ethan marks a fascinating twist in the plot and an exciting escalation of the action.
Andrew Crossland uses humour and warmth to raise the appeal of his story. He skilfully incorporates themes of bullying, friendship and family dynamics while maintaining excitement and adventure in the story.
I loved the beautiful astronomy references and images and the way they hinted at and built towards the developing sci-fi plot. I imagine this story will appeal widely to middle grade readers (and adults). There is something for everyone. Reluctant readers will find it an accessible, fast-paced fantasy. More capable readers will appreciate deeper themes and identify with the Ben’s love of science, the intriguing astronomy imagery and Skylar’s poetic reflections.
This is a lovely story that works so well on many levels making it easy to recommend. I hope there will be a sequel soon because I need to know whether we can count on a tomorrow!
Twelve-year-old Ben’s life has been devastated by the death of his father. The only links he has to him are the lingering memory of his stories and the beautiful constellation painted above his bed. Ben’s life is grim with an abusive stepfather and his mother’s attention diverted by his baby brother Leo’s serious illness. Ben finds friendship and consolation through his best friend Olivia, who is dealing with her older brother Bradley, a chilling physical and verbal bully. The characters do not wallow in their dire situations but rather engage in humour and offer each other mutual support. The arrival of the mysterious Skylar and Ethan marks a fascinating twist in the plot and an exciting escalation of the action.
Andrew Crossland uses humour and warmth to raise the appeal of his story. He skilfully incorporates themes of bullying, friendship and family dynamics while maintaining excitement and adventure in the story.
I loved the beautiful astronomy references and images and the way they hinted at and built towards the developing sci-fi plot. I imagine this story will appeal widely to middle grade readers (and adults). There is something for everyone. Reluctant readers will find it an accessible, fast-paced fantasy. More capable readers will appreciate deeper themes and identify with the Ben’s love of science, the intriguing astronomy imagery and Skylar’s poetic reflections.
This is a lovely story that works so well on many levels making it easy to recommend. I hope there will be a sequel soon because I need to know whether we can count on a tomorrow!
October 7, 2014
A truly enjoyable sci fi story. I found the plot captivating and even a little surprising at points. Midway through the book I figured it would have a fairly predictable ending, but I was wrong. I love it when a book proves me wrong by being unpredictable. Even more than the plot though, I really enjoyed the characters. They were well thought out, engaging and I actually came to care deeply about them as I read the book. It isn't often that I read a book where I am happy when the characters succeed and sad when they face injustices, but I can honestly say that I did feel emotionally invested in these characters. To me, that is probably the most important thing when it comes to fiction. Looking forward to more from this author! There is definitely more of this story to tell, so I hope it does become a series.
November 9, 2014
Primes is an intriguing new book with a thoroughly likable young hero, compelling characters, and creative aliens. There is also good imagery and beautiful alien poetry: “If I touch near the fire the impalpable ash, or the wrinkled body of the log, everything carries me to you . . .” The interactions and alien adventure are believable. Ben is a brilliant teenager dealing with an alcoholic stepfather and a desperately ill younger brother. His best friend is a girl who is equally obsessed with science fiction and Star Trek. She has her own problems dealing with a mean, controlling older brother. When two very odd teenagers arrive as foster children, Ben feels a crackling energy and is irresistibly drawn to them. His world is turned inside out. Primes has a satisfying conclusion, but also a foreboding threat to the hero and the world. Hence, we need a sequel!
November 24, 2014
Primes is one of those rare finds...a mix of excellent writing and good storytelling.
It is also unique, due to it being a real science fiction tale aimed at a younger audience. Ben is an extremely likable character, dealing with a hard, realistic family situation. His best friend, Olivia, is also believable, as is their relationship.
I don't typically talk much about the story itself in a review, because I don't like to give too much away. The books summary tells you what you need to know. All I will say is that it's a well though-out plot and isn't predictable.
Mr. Crossland has a great writing style that is easy and enjoyable to read. Don't let the fact that this is an Indie book deter you: this is as good as any traditionally published book out there and is more than worth the cost.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
It is also unique, due to it being a real science fiction tale aimed at a younger audience. Ben is an extremely likable character, dealing with a hard, realistic family situation. His best friend, Olivia, is also believable, as is their relationship.
I don't typically talk much about the story itself in a review, because I don't like to give too much away. The books summary tells you what you need to know. All I will say is that it's a well though-out plot and isn't predictable.
Mr. Crossland has a great writing style that is easy and enjoyable to read. Don't let the fact that this is an Indie book deter you: this is as good as any traditionally published book out there and is more than worth the cost.
I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews