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No Words
Hero doesn't feel like a hero, but sometimes she feels as if the universe is asking her to be one.
When Aria, a mysterious boy who never EVER speaks, starts at school and is picked on by His Royal Thug-ness Doofus (Rufus), Hero and her bestie Jaz feel compelled to help. But they're far too chicken to actually do anything heroic, so they befriend Aria and try to uncover the truth about him.
This is the story of a 12-year-old refugee who's trying to establish a new life in Australia, grapple with his past and, most importantly, find his voice.
'Cos, boy, does he have a story to tell.
WINNER OF THE ABDA BOOK DESIGN AWARDS 2023 BEST DESIGNED CHILDREN'S FICTION COVER
CBCA BOOK OF THE YEAR NOTABLE 2023 BOOK OF THE YEAR: YOUNGER READERS
When Aria, a mysterious boy who never EVER speaks, starts at school and is picked on by His Royal Thug-ness Doofus (Rufus), Hero and her bestie Jaz feel compelled to help. But they're far too chicken to actually do anything heroic, so they befriend Aria and try to uncover the truth about him.
This is the story of a 12-year-old refugee who's trying to establish a new life in Australia, grapple with his past and, most importantly, find his voice.
'Cos, boy, does he have a story to tell.
WINNER OF THE ABDA BOOK DESIGN AWARDS 2023 BEST DESIGNED CHILDREN'S FICTION COVER
CBCA BOOK OF THE YEAR NOTABLE 2023 BOOK OF THE YEAR: YOUNGER READERS
224 pages, Paperback
Published July 26, 2022
10 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
About the author
Maryam Master
7 books21 followersMaryam Master is a writer with more than 20 years' experience creating work for stage and screen.
In 2019 she wrote the stage adaptation of David Walliams' best-selling book The Midnight Gang. The show enjoyed a sellout season at the Sydney Opera House and will begin an extensive national tour in 2021. The previous year she wrote an acclaimed adaptation of Walliams' Billionaire Boy, which also toured nationally.
In 2017 Maryam collaborated with Australian Children's Laureate Leigh Hobbs on Horrible Harriet: Live on Stage. In 2016, her new version of Mr Stink toured nationally and to the UAE, and was nominated for a Sydney Theatre Award.
Maryam started her career in television, writing over 80 episodes of Home and Away (Seven Network). Since then, Maryam has written for many major Australian and international television programs. In 2011 she was selected by Sesame Workshop as the writer for Elmo's tour of Australia, and wrote Elmo and Ollie for Sesame and Nick Jr. Other TV credits include Hoopla Doopla (Beyond), Lah-Lah's Adventures (Stella/Seven Network), Blinky Bill (Yoram Gross), Animalscope (CBeebies), Raggs (Southern Star/Seven Network), Dive Olly Dive (Flying Bark), New Macdonald's Farm (Pacific and Beyond/Nine Network) and Bambaloo (Jim Henson Co./Yoram Gross/Seven Network).
Other stage work includes The Incredible Book Eating Boy (Australian and international tour), Lah Lah's Big Live Band, which debuted to sold-out audiences at the Opera House Concert Hall, and 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and Jingle Bell Jazz (Sydney Opera House Babies Proms).
In 2019 she wrote the stage adaptation of David Walliams' best-selling book The Midnight Gang. The show enjoyed a sellout season at the Sydney Opera House and will begin an extensive national tour in 2021. The previous year she wrote an acclaimed adaptation of Walliams' Billionaire Boy, which also toured nationally.
In 2017 Maryam collaborated with Australian Children's Laureate Leigh Hobbs on Horrible Harriet: Live on Stage. In 2016, her new version of Mr Stink toured nationally and to the UAE, and was nominated for a Sydney Theatre Award.
Maryam started her career in television, writing over 80 episodes of Home and Away (Seven Network). Since then, Maryam has written for many major Australian and international television programs. In 2011 she was selected by Sesame Workshop as the writer for Elmo's tour of Australia, and wrote Elmo and Ollie for Sesame and Nick Jr. Other TV credits include Hoopla Doopla (Beyond), Lah-Lah's Adventures (Stella/Seven Network), Blinky Bill (Yoram Gross), Animalscope (CBeebies), Raggs (Southern Star/Seven Network), Dive Olly Dive (Flying Bark), New Macdonald's Farm (Pacific and Beyond/Nine Network) and Bambaloo (Jim Henson Co./Yoram Gross/Seven Network).
Other stage work includes The Incredible Book Eating Boy (Australian and international tour), Lah Lah's Big Live Band, which debuted to sold-out audiences at the Opera House Concert Hall, and 'Twas the Night Before Christmas and Jingle Bell Jazz (Sydney Opera House Babies Proms).
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 18, 2022
I know this says it's Hero's book, but it's actually more about Aria. It's an own voices story of fleeing your home country and entering Australia as a refuge, and the struggles with attending school and fitting in with your new peers. It's a diverse read, with everything from mental illness to disabilities and all through the eyes of a child.
Like Maryam Master's other book, there is a lot of bullying that goes on, but this time with a different outcome. I found it to be a lot friendly of a book than Exit Through the Gift Shop, although there are devastating aspects. Aria is such a sweet and loving character, full of words but unable to speak them. But once he finds his voice, he uses it to spread his truths and love.
I think this is a great story for children to learn to understand the experiences and things that shape others.
Like Maryam Master's other book, there is a lot of bullying that goes on, but this time with a different outcome. I found it to be a lot friendly of a book than Exit Through the Gift Shop, although there are devastating aspects. Aria is such a sweet and loving character, full of words but unable to speak them. But once he finds his voice, he uses it to spread his truths and love.
I think this is a great story for children to learn to understand the experiences and things that shape others.
December 31, 2023
A beautiful, heartfelt story of three kids becoming best friends and supporting each other through their struggles and differences. Great representation and discussions - refugee, anxiety, trauma, bullying, mental health. Important topics dealt with honestly, but overall the tone is still uplifting and funny. Love it. 9+
CW - oppression of Iranian women, family forced to flee, violence and death. Dealt with sensitively but honestly.
CW - oppression of Iranian women, family forced to flee, violence and death. Dealt with sensitively but honestly.
March 27, 2023
After finishing Exit Through the Gift Shop last week, I shared it with my Stage 3 students and received one of the strongest responses to a book I can remember. So I thought I better quickly read No Words so I could recommend it to my new Maryam Master fans.
This was another wonderful story. Maryam crams a lot in to her relatively short books. No Words deals with; a refugee story with associated trauma, multiple significant mental health issues, bullying, the power of words, power of friendship and ultimately, the power of love. Again, some heavy topics, but again handled with a light touch, in a very accessible and enjoyable way.
I loved the friendship that developed between Hero, Jazz and Aria. It was very special and uplifting to read about. I liked Hero's descriptions of what it is like living with her Dad and his mood swings, although I would have liked to explore the downs in more detail and the impact it has on her and her family.
I think this story will be devoured by my students in much the same way as Exit... and look forward to having queues of borrowers.
Congratulations on having No Words included in the CBCA Notables, and I hope it makes the Shortlist later this month.
This was another wonderful story. Maryam crams a lot in to her relatively short books. No Words deals with; a refugee story with associated trauma, multiple significant mental health issues, bullying, the power of words, power of friendship and ultimately, the power of love. Again, some heavy topics, but again handled with a light touch, in a very accessible and enjoyable way.
I loved the friendship that developed between Hero, Jazz and Aria. It was very special and uplifting to read about. I liked Hero's descriptions of what it is like living with her Dad and his mood swings, although I would have liked to explore the downs in more detail and the impact it has on her and her family.
I think this story will be devoured by my students in much the same way as Exit... and look forward to having queues of borrowers.
Congratulations on having No Words included in the CBCA Notables, and I hope it makes the Shortlist later this month.
August 10, 2022
Beautiful middle grade book about the friendship between Hero, Jaz and Aria, three characters with distinctly different personalities and challenges. This books centres on themes of belonging, displacement, bullying and mental health. The story of Aria is the the part of the book which really draws you in, as a 12 year old refugee who is finding himself and his voice since moving to Australia. The description of needing to flee ones homeland and the willingness to fight to stand up for your rights and those of others is both heart breaking and empowering.
February 21, 2024
Absolutely loved this tale of friendship and self discovery.
Maryam beautifully explores (what I assume is) bipolar disorder, the trauma of a refugee experience, school yard bullying and the power of friendship.
It follows Hero, her friend Jaz and Aria who are so very different but are exactly what each need. It has elements that feel very 'Australian' (especially the slang) but would still be relatable for any reader.
Maryam beautifully explores (what I assume is) bipolar disorder, the trauma of a refugee experience, school yard bullying and the power of friendship.
It follows Hero, her friend Jaz and Aria who are so very different but are exactly what each need. It has elements that feel very 'Australian' (especially the slang) but would still be relatable for any reader.
April 25, 2024
Lovely story about friendship, bullying, refugees, selective mutism, poetry, bravery.
With a side-slice of a manic-depressive father.
With a side-slice of a manic-depressive father.
September 23, 2022
Thank you, Maryam Master.
I nabbed this book after reading and loving your earlier book ‘Exit through the gift shop’.
With a very different storyline and cast, this book resonates with the same big-heart characters and humour (some quite darkly).
An immigrant story with various characters from various backgrounds thrown together at school and/or neighbourhood.
A real roller-coaster of a story, delving into themes of family, responsibility and mental health, this novel is dynamite - and not for all readers (some may need a chat or tissues - there are a few themes to unpack).
While it looks deceptive with that gorgeous blue and gold cover, and small size, I would really recommend this book for lower high school readers and classes - 12+ years old.
I nabbed this book after reading and loving your earlier book ‘Exit through the gift shop’.
With a very different storyline and cast, this book resonates with the same big-heart characters and humour (some quite darkly).
An immigrant story with various characters from various backgrounds thrown together at school and/or neighbourhood.
A real roller-coaster of a story, delving into themes of family, responsibility and mental health, this novel is dynamite - and not for all readers (some may need a chat or tissues - there are a few themes to unpack).
While it looks deceptive with that gorgeous blue and gold cover, and small size, I would really recommend this book for lower high school readers and classes - 12+ years old.
August 31, 2023
Many thanks to the Australian Children's Book Council for the opportunity to review this excellent book. The original review was published on readingtime.com.au
Words have power.
Hero Jean Rodriguez is navigating the treacherous waters of her first year of high school. Her home is a loving one, where her dad has his UP days and his DOWN days. There’s no fuss made about his condition: just acceptance and love.
Hero and her best friend Jaz, who is fearless and outspoken, befriend a new boy at school, Aria, who is a mystery. He has kind eyes. And a sometimes-mischievous smile. But no words. None. It’s literally like someone pointed the remote at his mouth and pressed the mute button, and they become a dorky gang of three misfits.
Kids like Aria will always attract bullies like bees to the honey, and the resident school bully, referred to as ‘Rufus Doofus’ has set his sights on Aria. Readers will relate to the pain a bully can inflict, both physical and emotional.
Various fonts and font-sizes are used through the text to emphasise particular words and phrases. Chapters narrated by Aria have a mixture of English and Farsi letters scattered across the top of the page.
Aria slowly reveals his story, sharing with us his life in Iran; going to school and hanging out with his best friend Amir, before his family flee for their lives and eventually settle in Australia. It is a harrowing story but told in an age-appropriate way.
Master uses humour to tackle serious issues: mental health, bullying, grief and loss and the obstacles faced by refugees. I learnt many things about Persian culture from this novel, and young readers will absorb these nuggets of information which will feed their empathy for others.
Ultimately, No Words is about the healing power of love, friendship, and kindness. Highly recommended for readers 9+.
It would make an excellent class text and is particularly relevant in light of Australia’s refugee policies. The publisher provides Reading Notes: https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/97817...
Words have power.
Hero Jean Rodriguez is navigating the treacherous waters of her first year of high school. Her home is a loving one, where her dad has his UP days and his DOWN days. There’s no fuss made about his condition: just acceptance and love.
Hero and her best friend Jaz, who is fearless and outspoken, befriend a new boy at school, Aria, who is a mystery. He has kind eyes. And a sometimes-mischievous smile. But no words. None. It’s literally like someone pointed the remote at his mouth and pressed the mute button, and they become a dorky gang of three misfits.
Kids like Aria will always attract bullies like bees to the honey, and the resident school bully, referred to as ‘Rufus Doofus’ has set his sights on Aria. Readers will relate to the pain a bully can inflict, both physical and emotional.
Various fonts and font-sizes are used through the text to emphasise particular words and phrases. Chapters narrated by Aria have a mixture of English and Farsi letters scattered across the top of the page.
Aria slowly reveals his story, sharing with us his life in Iran; going to school and hanging out with his best friend Amir, before his family flee for their lives and eventually settle in Australia. It is a harrowing story but told in an age-appropriate way.
Master uses humour to tackle serious issues: mental health, bullying, grief and loss and the obstacles faced by refugees. I learnt many things about Persian culture from this novel, and young readers will absorb these nuggets of information which will feed their empathy for others.
Ultimately, No Words is about the healing power of love, friendship, and kindness. Highly recommended for readers 9+.
It would make an excellent class text and is particularly relevant in light of Australia’s refugee policies. The publisher provides Reading Notes: https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/97817...
October 17, 2022
This is a story about finding the words, your words, and the courage to speak them. It is a story about storytelling and the power of words whether whispered, shouted or merely thought and their importance in preserving that most significant and mighty word of all. Love.
It is a tale that has made me fall in love with Maryam Master’s gift of storytelling just a little bit more and one I am sure primary schoolers will savour with full and eager hearts because she speaks their speak so indescribably well. Older tween and teen reluctant readers will also be comfortable reading this for the same reason. Bravo!
Read my full review of this stunning novel at DIM'S re VIEWS: http://dimswritestuff.blogspot.com/20...
It is a tale that has made me fall in love with Maryam Master’s gift of storytelling just a little bit more and one I am sure primary schoolers will savour with full and eager hearts because she speaks their speak so indescribably well. Older tween and teen reluctant readers will also be comfortable reading this for the same reason. Bravo!
Read my full review of this stunning novel at DIM'S re VIEWS: http://dimswritestuff.blogspot.com/20...
September 22, 2022
I have just finished reading ‘No Words’. And yes, I must confess, I had a little cry at the end, which is the sign of a good book getting to one in the best of all possible ways!
You can read the synopsis (on Goodreads) so I won’t do that part. Save to say, this is a funky book that tackles serious themes of bullying, elective muteness, bipolar (in Hero’s father), refugees, trauma, the death of a parent …. yes, some meaty stuff, indeed!
The first-person retell is from two points of view: Hero (a school girl, sympathetic, self-deprecating, with a father who is larger than life at times) and Aria (Iranian refugee, tri-lingual, traumatised by past events including the death of his mother, a loner until befriended by Hero and her boisterous, hypochondriac friend, Jaz).
This alternating retell device works, and it allows the reader to ‘see’ more into the characters of each narrator.
Some parts don’t quite ring true, for example school life and playground politics. Surely the bullying of Aria by Rufus would have been observed by a teacher on duty and disciplinary action would have taken place? The teachers’ names are deliberately contrived, e.g. the PE teacher is Ms Fit, the principal is Mr Hardball, and the children’s classroom teacher is Ms Rubble.
Some areas of the book could have been fleshed out more, or written more realistically. For example, we don’t know much about Jaz’s family, except that she had a pet snake. The younger sister of Hero is a caricature of a younger sister - was she even needed? Would a dying woman (spoiler alert) have been able to bite someone’s finger enough to leave a permanent scar? Whatever happened to Aria’s best friend in Iran? There are some loose ends that could have been tied up, put perhaps that’s asking too much because life can be messy and we lose touch with people when trauma happens.
This book is highly recommended.
You can read the synopsis (on Goodreads) so I won’t do that part. Save to say, this is a funky book that tackles serious themes of bullying, elective muteness, bipolar (in Hero’s father), refugees, trauma, the death of a parent …. yes, some meaty stuff, indeed!
The first-person retell is from two points of view: Hero (a school girl, sympathetic, self-deprecating, with a father who is larger than life at times) and Aria (Iranian refugee, tri-lingual, traumatised by past events including the death of his mother, a loner until befriended by Hero and her boisterous, hypochondriac friend, Jaz).
This alternating retell device works, and it allows the reader to ‘see’ more into the characters of each narrator.
Some parts don’t quite ring true, for example school life and playground politics. Surely the bullying of Aria by Rufus would have been observed by a teacher on duty and disciplinary action would have taken place? The teachers’ names are deliberately contrived, e.g. the PE teacher is Ms Fit, the principal is Mr Hardball, and the children’s classroom teacher is Ms Rubble.
Some areas of the book could have been fleshed out more, or written more realistically. For example, we don’t know much about Jaz’s family, except that she had a pet snake. The younger sister of Hero is a caricature of a younger sister - was she even needed? Would a dying woman (spoiler alert) have been able to bite someone’s finger enough to leave a permanent scar? Whatever happened to Aria’s best friend in Iran? There are some loose ends that could have been tied up, put perhaps that’s asking too much because life can be messy and we lose touch with people when trauma happens.
This book is highly recommended.
May 10, 2023
Hero and her bestie, Jaz, become friends with Aria, who doesn't talk. Jaz doesn't stop talking, and Hero wishes she lives up to her name. Hero, Jaz, and Aria do their best to avoid trouble, but Doofus Rufus makes their lives at school miserable until he starts seeing his private diary details plastered around the school. The mystery is, who is tormenting Rufus?
Jaz and Hero are curious about their friend's story. Why doesn't he talk? And then he says, 'I'll do it' as dinner. They enter a slam poetry competition. What do the friends do so Arai, who doesn't talk much anywhere, can stand in front of a crowd and recite poetry? What does Aria have to say?
This book was a page-turner. The strength and courage all three characters draw on demonstrate love and friendship's impact on resilience.
Recommended for readers aged eight years or more.
Jaz and Hero are curious about their friend's story. Why doesn't he talk? And then he says, 'I'll do it' as dinner. They enter a slam poetry competition. What do the friends do so Arai, who doesn't talk much anywhere, can stand in front of a crowd and recite poetry? What does Aria have to say?
This book was a page-turner. The strength and courage all three characters draw on demonstrate love and friendship's impact on resilience.
Recommended for readers aged eight years or more.
August 5, 2023
I read Exit Through the Gift Shop a couple of years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it, so I was interested to read the author's second novel. Like her first book, No Words is humorous despite the serious topics that the novel deals with - mental health, grief, bullying, anxiety and the plight of refugees - making it accessible for younger readers.
I loved the friendship between Hero, Aria and Jaz. As Aria slowly shares his story, revealing his life in Iran and his escape to Australia, I was shocked and I wanted to give him a big hug. However, having spoken to actual students who have left the Middle East for the safety of Australia, his story was sadly very believable.
No Words was a touching read showing how kindness, love and friendship triumph over bullying and evil.
I loved the friendship between Hero, Aria and Jaz. As Aria slowly shares his story, revealing his life in Iran and his escape to Australia, I was shocked and I wanted to give him a big hug. However, having spoken to actual students who have left the Middle East for the safety of Australia, his story was sadly very believable.
No Words was a touching read showing how kindness, love and friendship triumph over bullying and evil.
August 2, 2022
✍️This is the story of a sweet girl called Hero who together with her best friend Jaz befriends the new boy in school Aria who has trouble speaking and they help him overcome his fears.
This is the second middle grade novel by @maryammasterauthor. After reading Exit Through The Gift Shop last year and adoring it I was indeed anticipating this book and it was delightful. There was plentiful of diverse emotions expressed.
I was pulled at the heartstrings by the critical and substantial topics conveyed throughout such as bullying, mental health, optimism, courage. A perfect story for young readers to enjoy with a blend of humour, empathy and an inspirational message about heroism.
This is the second middle grade novel by @maryammasterauthor. After reading Exit Through The Gift Shop last year and adoring it I was indeed anticipating this book and it was delightful. There was plentiful of diverse emotions expressed.
I was pulled at the heartstrings by the critical and substantial topics conveyed throughout such as bullying, mental health, optimism, courage. A perfect story for young readers to enjoy with a blend of humour, empathy and an inspirational message about heroism.
September 19, 2022
Oh my goodness! ANOTHER beautiful, funny, silly, moving story for young readers and old, OLD readers like myself. Somehow, Maryam has yet again been able to tell a life and death story with joy, acceptance, humour, imagination and wisdom. She brings so much light to her writing despite never shying away from big topics; life, death, loss, bullying, oppressive regimes, and coming to Australia as a young refugee.
The characters are bursting out of the page. And like Exit Through The Gift Shop, this book is about triumph through love, kindness and friendship.
A beautiful and moving read, at once terrifying and bursting with joy. I can't wait for the third book by Maryam Master!
The characters are bursting out of the page. And like Exit Through The Gift Shop, this book is about triumph through love, kindness and friendship.
A beautiful and moving read, at once terrifying and bursting with joy. I can't wait for the third book by Maryam Master!
November 2, 2023
The story of the experiences of Hero, Jaz and Aria at home and at school. Hero and Jaz are friends who take Aria into their group after witnessing his being bullied, he is mute and Ana slum seeker child being targetted by the school bully.
The reveals in the book are well paced, there are things in each child’s life that have led them to being on the outside, with the ending being very uplifting.
I recommend this to parents looking for a thought provoking read for their children, or one for the family to read together. Probably late Pri,Ray or early Secondary, but I highly recommend the book.
The reveals in the book are well paced, there are things in each child’s life that have led them to being on the outside, with the ending being very uplifting.
I recommend this to parents looking for a thought provoking read for their children, or one for the family to read together. Probably late Pri,Ray or early Secondary, but I highly recommend the book.
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February 5, 2024 I read it for the Alphabet Mafia Challenge
Words have power
Rating: 4.5/5
I absolutely loved the book. The storytelling was amazing, I loved the characters. It says the book is Hero's but it's more of Aria's book. The book is written in dual POV; A refugee boy who came from Iran and A girl who buckled up the boy into her friend circle. I loved all three of them; Hero, Jaz and Aria! Even though three of them had different personalities, but they're connected by heart! And ofc, Hero's Dad is just super awesome. It's an amazing yet short book. An exquisite read, indeed.
Words have power
Rating: 4.5/5
I absolutely loved the book. The storytelling was amazing, I loved the characters. It says the book is Hero's but it's more of Aria's book. The book is written in dual POV; A refugee boy who came from Iran and A girl who buckled up the boy into her friend circle. I loved all three of them; Hero, Jaz and Aria! Even though three of them had different personalities, but they're connected by heart! And ofc, Hero's Dad is just super awesome. It's an amazing yet short book. An exquisite read, indeed.
August 11, 2022
Beautiful middle grade book about the friendship between Hero, Jaz and Aria, three characters with distinctly different personalities and challenges. This book centres on themes of belonging, displacement, bullying and mental health. The story of Aria is the part of the book which really draws you in, as a 12 year old refugee who is finding himself and his voice since moving to Australia. The description of needing to flee ones homeland and the willingness to fight to stand up for your rights and those of others is both heart breaking and empowering.
Read by Suzie
Read by Suzie
November 16, 2022
This is a dual narrative about a refugee boy from Iran who can't speak due to trauma he suffered coming to Australia, and the girl who decides to adopt him in her friendship circle when he arrives at her school. Despite the heavy context, the novel is funny and irreverent and shows the power of a good friendship. The partly autobiographical story deals with navigating life in a new country while carrying a heart heavy with grief. Maryam Masters deals with complex and sad issues expertly. Would work well as a first class novel for year 7s but people 10-14 would enjoy it.
February 27, 2023
No Words is a wonderful, interesting, insightful story about a boy, Aria, who escaped from Iran with his family. Due to the trauma he suffered he couldn’t speak when at his new school in Australia. He suffered bullying but was befriended by Hero and Jaz, and found his voice through writing poetry and wins a competition. Encouraged by Hero’s dad to enter more, he finds himself at a Slam Poetry competition. This is a story of triumph, persistence, and love.
Highly recommend for ages 9+
Highly recommend for ages 9+
May 10, 2025
When I started reading this I thought it was cute and lovely, in fact I still do once I’ve finished it. However part of the way through I was thrown by the mention of a certain author and her series of books and thought about stopping because it completely pulled me out of the story. But I kept going and it was mentioned several more times. I usually stop reading, but I decided to keep at it. But it did slow me down and make me not want to read it.
January 2, 2026
a bully, a loud-mouthed-food-obsessed best friend, and a protagonist who pretends to listen to her best friend ramblings. this felt very similar to Exit Through the Gift Shop.
this book would've been unique and impactful if it was written from Aria's perspective and his character was explored more. the split perspective felt lazy considering the most developed part of Hero's character was her dad.
this book would've been unique and impactful if it was written from Aria's perspective and his character was explored more. the split perspective felt lazy considering the most developed part of Hero's character was her dad.
September 15, 2022
The beauty of Maryam Master's writing is the way she effortlessly blends topics that are at once heart-breaking, complex, traumatic, confronting and joyous into stories that appeal to children and adults alike. There is a subtlety and grace in her language and the way the story draws you in and makes you invested in the lives of Hero, Jaz, Aria and everyone around them. An exquisite read.
September 21, 2022
Another top book for 2022.
New boy, Aria arrives at school and is mute. Main character Hero, tries to befriend him, especially when Prince Bully picks on him. Aria has a traumatic past which Master slowly reveals. A lovely story about overcoming the challenges as a refugee.
Aria uses his writing to tell his story and on the biggest stage, finds his own voice.
New boy, Aria arrives at school and is mute. Main character Hero, tries to befriend him, especially when Prince Bully picks on him. Aria has a traumatic past which Master slowly reveals. A lovely story about overcoming the challenges as a refugee.
Aria uses his writing to tell his story and on the biggest stage, finds his own voice.
November 29, 2022
Immigration, genocide, bullying, PTSD, high school angst - they are all here in Master's new book. Very different Through the Gift Shop, it is equally engaging. Master tackles major issues without insisting on happily-ever-after endings and does so in a way that makes her stories and characters believable.
August 2, 2023
I loved this book. It deals with some complex issues such as bullying, mental health, mutism, fleeing oppression, grief and loss as well as friendship in an uplifting hopeful manner. The plot is fast moving and filled with relatable characters. Iranian culture is woven through the story and we see firsthand the trauma experienced by a refugee acclimatising into Australian life.
June 10, 2024
Amazing and heartwarming books older people will get a different view and understand it more, but it's more focused for younger kids which is understandable but I think more older people should read it. I'm so glad I found this book cause I don't think many people has found the books yet. I actually got to meet this author and she signed my copie she is very nice.
October 20, 2022
A heartwarming and funny story about friendship and finding your voice, both literally and metaphorically. Gorgeous characters. Short chapters and interesting use of font and text size make the story zip along nicely.
March 15, 2023
Big hearted, warm and friendly read for middle grades. Serious themes but not too heavy for young readers. I wasn’t too emotionally engaged until I got to the story about Aria’s scar - soccer punch from a talented author, masterfully done and left me in tears.
August 3, 2022
Humour used here to offset some heavy themes.
September 22, 2022
Friendship and stories, with a mix of humour and a touch of sadness.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews