My Dad is Definitely Not a Crime Lord

by Ben Davis

Damian's new friend wants him to be a hero. But what does that really mean?

Damian's family are living under witness protection now that his dad, a once powerful gangster, has turned Queen's evidence. They've been moved to a cramped flat in a run-down council estate, and they've all had to take on new names. Then Damian - sorry, Finn - meets costumed superhero Star Kid, who wants Finn to join his mission to keep the estate safe from criminals. Soon Finn is forced to ask himself: who is he, really? A funny, heartfelt novel about friendship and family - and where the limits are for both.

368 pages, Paperback

Published August 4, 2022

About the author

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Reviews

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fourteen year old Damian and his family are in a witness protection programme, thanks to his criminal father giving evidence, They are hiding from other crims , in particular, “Uncle Shane”, and have been settled in a dilapidated housing estate. Damian, now known as Finn, has lost the nice house and comfortable lifestyle, school, and friends that he is used to.
Everything for Finn and little sister, Millie, seems pretty depressing until Finn meets Tel, aka Star Kid, a costumed ‘super hero’ who is determined to clean up the estate and rid it of the local crime boss.
Suddenly Finn is teaming up with Star Kid and is finding adventure, friendship and community. But he still has a secret; who he really is, and what it means to be part of a crime family. Finn has to make a difficult choice: doing the right thing even if he might lose his dad.
A funny, light-hearted story which includes some darker themes of greed, domestic/family issues, kidnapping.

[Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is action-packed, gripping and has an amazing story line. Finn and his family have moved to Tammerstone under witness protection. At first, the family dislikes the apartment and they have not got much money. But, in this town there is a crime lord threatening people for money. So Finn joins Star Boy to hunt down and stop the criminal. But who would you choose your family or the right thing to do?

I liked this book because it was really gripping and I read it all in one go. My favorite part is where Finn transforms into a neighborhood superhero, serving and fixing the wrong the town.

5 STARS: This is a must read.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, this took a bit of a dark turn at the end, but it kept me gripped throughout. Finn is a lush character and I absolutely adored Millie. I think there’s some important messages in this about community, friendship and not judging others.