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Read Between The Lines
Two very different boys, one new family, a shared struggle and a big secret. Prize-winning Malcolm Duffy's third novel explores the joys and challenges of dyslexia in a story full of his hallmark heart and humour. For 12+.
Two very different boys, one new family, a shared struggle and a big secret.
Tommy is talented, cool, a young offender, and dyslexic.
Ryan is smart, uncool, well-behaved, and dyslexic.
The two develop an unlikely friendship.
As Ryan helps Tommy to read, a secret is revealed that will change their lives forever.
Prize-winning Malcolm Duffy's third novel explores the joys and challenges of dyslexia in a story full of his hallmark heart and humour. For 12+.
Reviews for Read Between the Lies :
'A grippingly unfolding domestic drama... The book's two engaging narrators learn and teach the value of empathy with others'
Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week
'An honest, open family drama shining a light on dyslexia'
Sunday Express
'An engaging book for young readers... with lies, secrets, and dyslexia at the heart of the story'
Armadillo Magazine
Two very different boys, one new family, a shared struggle and a big secret.
Tommy is talented, cool, a young offender, and dyslexic.
Ryan is smart, uncool, well-behaved, and dyslexic.
The two develop an unlikely friendship.
As Ryan helps Tommy to read, a secret is revealed that will change their lives forever.
Prize-winning Malcolm Duffy's third novel explores the joys and challenges of dyslexia in a story full of his hallmark heart and humour. For 12+.
Reviews for Read Between the Lies :
'A grippingly unfolding domestic drama... The book's two engaging narrators learn and teach the value of empathy with others'
Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week
'An honest, open family drama shining a light on dyslexia'
Sunday Express
'An engaging book for young readers... with lies, secrets, and dyslexia at the heart of the story'
Armadillo Magazine
- GenresFamilyYoung AdultFiction
277 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2022
4 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Malcolm Duffy
7 books10 followersMalcolm Duffy was born in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Having spent many years as a successful advertising copywriter he decided it was time to write something that didn't have a pack-shot and logo.
The idea for his debut novel came when he was working as Creative Director at Comic Relief. He visited a project that helped women and children who'd suffered as a result of domestic violence. The idea for Me Mam. Me Dad. Me was born. But the book doesn't just focus on the heavy issue of domestic abuse. The story is about a boy's love for his mam. A mam's love for her son. And a dad's love for his boy.
The idea for his debut novel came when he was working as Creative Director at Comic Relief. He visited a project that helped women and children who'd suffered as a result of domestic violence. The idea for Me Mam. Me Dad. Me was born. But the book doesn't just focus on the heavy issue of domestic abuse. The story is about a boy's love for his mam. A mam's love for her son. And a dad's love for his boy.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 10, 2023
When 2 boys (Tommy & Ryan) have to live together now. And though they are possibly poles apart in behaviour, their shared problem of Dyslexia develops a kinship between the 2. As their lives intertwine, secrets are revealed and the chemistry changes!
A modern timelines book told from the perspectives of 2 boys. Their stark contrast in characters gave a sort of novelty to the story.
I found this book hilarious at places where I don't think it was intended to be... but naming them wouldn't be spoiler free. I did find Ryan's mother's character is changed as per the situation's demand to fit in - with no concrete stand. Sometimes she is all understanding mom, sometimes it's too bossy and in a particular instance quite revengeful too! Overall the book was a decent short read and as this was my first time reading this author I would like to explore her more.
Genre: #fiction #contemporary #teens #ya
Rating: 3.5/5
Thank you @netgalley @malcolm.duffy and @sagaegmont for the digital ARC.
A modern timelines book told from the perspectives of 2 boys. Their stark contrast in characters gave a sort of novelty to the story.
I found this book hilarious at places where I don't think it was intended to be... but naming them wouldn't be spoiler free. I did find Ryan's mother's character is changed as per the situation's demand to fit in - with no concrete stand. Sometimes she is all understanding mom, sometimes it's too bossy and in a particular instance quite revengeful too! Overall the book was a decent short read and as this was my first time reading this author I would like to explore her more.
Genre: #fiction #contemporary #teens #ya
Rating: 3.5/5
Thank you @netgalley @malcolm.duffy and @sagaegmont for the digital ARC.
July 17, 2023
I finished this book because I paid money for it
December 3, 2023
Boring. I have no feelings on this book. Ended up skimming the latter half of the book
August 12, 2022
Easy read about 2 very different teenage boys who have dyslexia in common.
January 30, 2023
Read Between the Lies is an interesting peek into the complexities and challenges of modern families. It’s a story about admitting mistakes, trying to be better, forgiving and allowing for second chances. Although those themes can be quite complex, Duffy addresses them with a simplicity that makes us think it’s possible for all to come out right in the end.
The story also addresses dyslexia and helps readers realize that it’s not a challenge to be ashamed of or that needs to be hidden. I had a personal “Aha!” moment when one character explained the methods his teacher used to help him with his dyslexia. As he explained those methods, I realized that my grade 3 teacher, Mrs, Maine, used those same methods with me back in the 80’s. Although I have never received an official diagnosis of dyslexia, I’m now positive that Mrs. Maine provided the early intervention I needed, and my whole life has been affected in such a positive way because of her. (I’m a librarian!) Thank you, Mrs. Maine!
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
#ReadBetweentheLies #NetGalley
The story also addresses dyslexia and helps readers realize that it’s not a challenge to be ashamed of or that needs to be hidden. I had a personal “Aha!” moment when one character explained the methods his teacher used to help him with his dyslexia. As he explained those methods, I realized that my grade 3 teacher, Mrs, Maine, used those same methods with me back in the 80’s. Although I have never received an official diagnosis of dyslexia, I’m now positive that Mrs. Maine provided the early intervention I needed, and my whole life has been affected in such a positive way because of her. (I’m a librarian!) Thank you, Mrs. Maine!
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
#ReadBetweentheLies #NetGalley
October 21, 2022
I received an ARC from the publishers in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
It's always a joy to get my hands on a Malcolm Duffy books. These are UKYA stories, rooted in the overlooked north, that tackle big topics with lots of heart. This is no different.
I love love love seeing ND stories out there - every one is a shot of happiness at seeing the rep (which is so scant on the ground.) And the fact that the boys' dyslexia is only part of the story? Even better. Like anyone who is neurodiverse, the boys are so much more than their dyslexia. They have pasts and tensions and emotions and lives.
It's a book about divorce and finding new partners, and the impact that has on relationships, and making new families. It's about two teenage boys flung together and finding a way to make friends despite some bit experience and interest gaps.
Also, Ryan is a complete idiot and I loved the way he grew. I was cringing through his opening actions, because you know it's going to go horrifically. But you also understand why he's doing that and just hope he sees how stupid it is before too late so he and Tommy have a chance to be friends.
Both POVs are told in the first person but it's so easy to tell them apart. Ryan was raised in the north (can't remember if the exact region was mentioned) and it shows in his dialect, using words like "scran" for food. By contrast, Tommy is a southerner, suburban London, using a dialect much more like my own. It made it really easy to work out who was speaking (and also the chapters alternated.)
It's always a joy to get my hands on a Malcolm Duffy books. These are UKYA stories, rooted in the overlooked north, that tackle big topics with lots of heart. This is no different.
I love love love seeing ND stories out there - every one is a shot of happiness at seeing the rep (which is so scant on the ground.) And the fact that the boys' dyslexia is only part of the story? Even better. Like anyone who is neurodiverse, the boys are so much more than their dyslexia. They have pasts and tensions and emotions and lives.
It's a book about divorce and finding new partners, and the impact that has on relationships, and making new families. It's about two teenage boys flung together and finding a way to make friends despite some bit experience and interest gaps.
Also, Ryan is a complete idiot and I loved the way he grew. I was cringing through his opening actions, because you know it's going to go horrifically. But you also understand why he's doing that and just hope he sees how stupid it is before too late so he and Tommy have a chance to be friends.
Both POVs are told in the first person but it's so easy to tell them apart. Ryan was raised in the north (can't remember if the exact region was mentioned) and it shows in his dialect, using words like "scran" for food. By contrast, Tommy is a southerner, suburban London, using a dialect much more like my own. It made it really easy to work out who was speaking (and also the chapters alternated.)
January 9, 2023
Many thanks to Netgalley, Saga Egmont Audio, and the author, for the ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book follows the story of 2 boys, 16 year old Ryan, who's life has changed so much in the last few months that he feels unsettled. His parents divorced, he moved in with his dad and his new girlfriend and now he is going to share the same house with her son 17 year old Tommy. Tommy is as different from Ryan as he can be a young offender released from juvenile prison on the promise of good behavior, he seems to be cool and edgy. While Ryan is well-behaved good student with promised high grades in upcoming GCSE's.
After a few attempts at creating a camaraderie ends up being disastrous, the boys start to form a cordial bond over Ryan's dyslexia which is being managed and Tommy's dyslexia which is a secret no one knows except for Ryan. As their life starts to get a bit better Tommy discovers a secret that could possibly destroy everything!
The story had a good flow to it alternating between POVs of the 2 boys. I was kind of let down by the twist, and yet happy with it. Th narrator was absolutely brilliant in emoting both the character, though there wasn't much of a difference in vocal tone, the accent change was brilliant!
The book follows the story of 2 boys, 16 year old Ryan, who's life has changed so much in the last few months that he feels unsettled. His parents divorced, he moved in with his dad and his new girlfriend and now he is going to share the same house with her son 17 year old Tommy. Tommy is as different from Ryan as he can be a young offender released from juvenile prison on the promise of good behavior, he seems to be cool and edgy. While Ryan is well-behaved good student with promised high grades in upcoming GCSE's.
After a few attempts at creating a camaraderie ends up being disastrous, the boys start to form a cordial bond over Ryan's dyslexia which is being managed and Tommy's dyslexia which is a secret no one knows except for Ryan. As their life starts to get a bit better Tommy discovers a secret that could possibly destroy everything!
The story had a good flow to it alternating between POVs of the 2 boys. I was kind of let down by the twist, and yet happy with it. Th narrator was absolutely brilliant in emoting both the character, though there wasn't much of a difference in vocal tone, the accent change was brilliant!
April 14, 2024
4 stars.
I was attracted to this in the bookstore as I thought the concept of writing the chapter names in slightly altered spellings etc. was smart for a book on dyslexia. I also liked the way that the story was set out, the slow reveal of the family dynamics, and the new brothers getting to know each other by bonding over a common condition.
The other thing that really won it for me here was .
Ryan and Tommy aside, both of whom I loved for different reasons (Tommy was so sweet trying to hide his soft side), I dropped a star as I felt that the grown-ups here were so childish, it was almost as though roles were reversed! Non-communication seemed to be a common theme, and I literally facepalmed when
I was attracted to this in the bookstore as I thought the concept of writing the chapter names in slightly altered spellings etc. was smart for a book on dyslexia. I also liked the way that the story was set out, the slow reveal of the family dynamics, and the new brothers getting to know each other by bonding over a common condition.
The other thing that really won it for me here was .
Ryan and Tommy aside, both of whom I loved for different reasons (Tommy was so sweet trying to hide his soft side), I dropped a star as I felt that the grown-ups here were so childish, it was almost as though roles were reversed! Non-communication seemed to be a common theme, and I literally facepalmed when
January 11, 2023
Thank you Netgalley for this audio edition of Read Between the Lies by Malcolm Duffy.
What a great YA novel for everyone! This is a story between two boys who, through marriage, are forced to be brothers. They could not be more different, and struggle to like or understand each other until it turns out that they share something similar, dyslexia. Now one of the boys can help the other when tasked with a very public reading, helping them form bonds, as well as a deeper understanding of themselves.
I'm used to most YA books having strong sexual themes, because, DUH, teens. But I have to say, there was something really refreshing about the soul focus of this story being a shared learning disorder, as well as family issues. I have no problems addressing sexuality, obviously it's a huge part in most people's lives, but I can see this story being a very important read to a lot of people. And I also think, despite the fact that one of the boys just got out of juvvie, most people would deem this clean enough for a younger audience.
What a great YA novel for everyone! This is a story between two boys who, through marriage, are forced to be brothers. They could not be more different, and struggle to like or understand each other until it turns out that they share something similar, dyslexia. Now one of the boys can help the other when tasked with a very public reading, helping them form bonds, as well as a deeper understanding of themselves.
I'm used to most YA books having strong sexual themes, because, DUH, teens. But I have to say, there was something really refreshing about the soul focus of this story being a shared learning disorder, as well as family issues. I have no problems addressing sexuality, obviously it's a huge part in most people's lives, but I can see this story being a very important read to a lot of people. And I also think, despite the fact that one of the boys just got out of juvvie, most people would deem this clean enough for a younger audience.
June 8, 2024
🎧Read between the lies📝
By Malcolm Duffy @malcolm.duffy
This is a brilliant young adult fiction that focuses on a blended family.
Tommy is a young offender and has just come out of prison, and Ryan is a hard-working student. Tommy is cool, and Ryan is far from it!
When their lives get thrown together, Ryan discovers they have some common ground.
They are both dyslexic.
This book explores relationships brilliantly between father and son, mother and son, and new blended family dynamics that can often feel forced.
This story tacles daily struggles that someone with dyslexia can face and how, without help, sometimes you can choose to mask dyslexia with behaviour issues.
I love how Tommy and Ryan's relationship develops, and the twists in the tale are great for keeping a good pace throughout the story.
A brilliant YA domestic fiction with dyslexia at the heart of it.
I'd highly recommend this audio book! 🎧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me! 🤓
By Malcolm Duffy @malcolm.duffy
This is a brilliant young adult fiction that focuses on a blended family.
Tommy is a young offender and has just come out of prison, and Ryan is a hard-working student. Tommy is cool, and Ryan is far from it!
When their lives get thrown together, Ryan discovers they have some common ground.
They are both dyslexic.
This book explores relationships brilliantly between father and son, mother and son, and new blended family dynamics that can often feel forced.
This story tacles daily struggles that someone with dyslexia can face and how, without help, sometimes you can choose to mask dyslexia with behaviour issues.
I love how Tommy and Ryan's relationship develops, and the twists in the tale are great for keeping a good pace throughout the story.
A brilliant YA domestic fiction with dyslexia at the heart of it.
I'd highly recommend this audio book! 🎧
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me! 🤓
March 31, 2022
It was an interesting start and I honestly didn't expect it to play out the way it did! While it took me a little bit to warm to the book and to work out the chapter titles were meant to be the way they were I did enjoy it.
It goes back and forth between Tommy and Ryan and their views on what's happening.
Tommy is the bad boy who is just leaving Feltham and while he has been away his mum has met a new man and moved him and his son Ryan in. Tommy is determined he is the new and improved version of himself because he already embarrassed his mum before and doesn't want a repeat or the risk of ending up back in Feltham.
Ryan is the bookish goodie two shoes who wants a bit of adventure in his life but to what end.
This is just a tip of the iceberg that is the drama of Read between the Lies. Just remember secrets always find a way to get out!
It goes back and forth between Tommy and Ryan and their views on what's happening.
Tommy is the bad boy who is just leaving Feltham and while he has been away his mum has met a new man and moved him and his son Ryan in. Tommy is determined he is the new and improved version of himself because he already embarrassed his mum before and doesn't want a repeat or the risk of ending up back in Feltham.
Ryan is the bookish goodie two shoes who wants a bit of adventure in his life but to what end.
This is just a tip of the iceberg that is the drama of Read between the Lies. Just remember secrets always find a way to get out!
January 8, 2023
Ryan has gone through a lot of changes in the last few months. His parents got divorced, his dad has moved him in with his new girlfriend, and now he’s welcoming his dad’s girlfriends son home from Juvie.
Tommy has spent six months in jail for an unspecified crime. He’s trying hard to make changes so he doesn’t make his mom unhappy again.
Ryan and Tommy are struggling to adjust to each other in their new roles as almost brothers. Then when their parents announce their engagement, a big family secret is revealed that threatens everything.
Tommy has spent six months in jail for an unspecified crime. He’s trying hard to make changes so he doesn’t make his mom unhappy again.
Ryan and Tommy are struggling to adjust to each other in their new roles as almost brothers. Then when their parents announce their engagement, a big family secret is revealed that threatens everything.
April 17, 2023
Surprisingly enjoyable. I thought it was going to be ever so worthy but it was just a good yarn about prejudice, family relationships and being a teen. Most of my Y7 & 8 pupils who read it have enjoyed it. The dyslexic text was interesting - several of my pupils found that they hadn't noticed the misspelling of the chapter headings until they were quite far into the book. I'm also dyslexic and some of the portrayal of that felt a bit mannered but I'm prejudiced and not necessarily representative.
December 16, 2024
Ryan's life changes, for the better he hopes, when his father's girlfriend's son Tommy is released from an institution for young offenders and comes to live with them. Ryan is desperately uncool and nerdy, and hopes that some of Tommy's coolness will rub off onto him too. Tommy thinks otherwise, until Ryan, who has dyslexia, figures out that Tommy may well be dyslexic too and offers to help him. Things are complicated by Ryan's mum, who isn't happy at having no say in family matters anymore. This is a family drama for teen readers about perseverance and not accepting people at face value.
January 9, 2024
It is a cute book. Would be great for children/teenagers going through family stuff.
I liked the story and see the relationship between Ryan and Tommy grows. I was not such a fan of the change of view every chapter. Was not helping with the flow. There are some things that I would have loved being more developed (what did Tommy do exactly for instance) but then I realized it did not really matter at the end as it had absolutely nothing to do with who Tommy was as person.
I liked the story and see the relationship between Ryan and Tommy grows. I was not such a fan of the change of view every chapter. Was not helping with the flow. There are some things that I would have loved being more developed (what did Tommy do exactly for instance) but then I realized it did not really matter at the end as it had absolutely nothing to do with who Tommy was as person.
January 30, 2025
This was a great story that I absolutely loved,
It has given me a greater appreciation of my reading skills and a better understanding on how tough it can be to have Dyslexia, I absolutely love the characters and there were many unexpected surprises that kept me at the edge of my seat, I just could not put this book down!
It has given me a greater appreciation of my reading skills and a better understanding on how tough it can be to have Dyslexia, I absolutely love the characters and there were many unexpected surprises that kept me at the edge of my seat, I just could not put this book down!
June 13, 2023
This is the worst book I have ever read. It is so bad I torched it in a fire. I had the unpleasant experience of meeting the author, and he is the worst man I have ever met. The plot makes 0 sense and it makes me want to dye just reading it. Go away Malcolm, I hope you unpublish this.
January 15, 2024
I finished it cos I got asked to read it
It is a good read for younger years in highschool but it felt like jot alot happened and it took quite a while for things to happen. On an important topic tho. Kot really mu style of book either
It is a good read for younger years in highschool but it felt like jot alot happened and it took quite a while for things to happen. On an important topic tho. Kot really mu style of book either
October 5, 2024
Another book that I thoroughly enjoyed. I’m a 61 year old and found this book also was relevant to a wide age bracket. It’s very well written showing the story written from 2 different characters. It’s great to see how dyslexia has an effect on whole life experiences.
March 31, 2023
It was a very easy read which was great however I feel like the main plot could have started earlier
May 13, 2023
A good read that tackles a difficult subject
August 7, 2024
C-8
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June 15, 2022
a really brilliant read. Not at all what I thought it was going in. I completely fell for the characters and was hooked on their story. I loved seeing their relationship develop over the course of the book. I also loved that the main character was dyslexic but still read. All too often we are told people with dyslexia don't read which is rubbish
May 17, 2023
I accessed a digital review copy of this book from the publisher.
Tommy and Ryan have many things in common, they are 16, they live in the same home, and they are both dyslexic. They also have many differences. Tommy is hiding that he can't read. Ryan is trying to deal with his mother as she breaks down from her divorce. As the boys learn to live together, they uncover secrets.
The alternating viewpoints helped the story move along and keep it interesting.
Tommy and Ryan have many things in common, they are 16, they live in the same home, and they are both dyslexic. They also have many differences. Tommy is hiding that he can't read. Ryan is trying to deal with his mother as she breaks down from her divorce. As the boys learn to live together, they uncover secrets.
The alternating viewpoints helped the story move along and keep it interesting.
September 14, 2023
A good topic, a bit predictable, but a good read for Lower School
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews