Average Alex Brown

by Jean Cullop

Alex Brown rarely invited friends to his home. Suzy thought it was because his mum was ill. Actually it was because he didn't want anyone to see that she was ill. There was a difference.When his mother is diagnosed with a life threatening illness, Alex Brown's life changes drastically. He cannot come to terms with the devastating effect the illness has on his family. He thinks Mum's illness is unfair because she is a good person. First he blames God, then he refuses to believe in Him.Until now, Alex has been happy to be a very average twelve year old. Average is safe, even if it is boring. However, now he wonders if he could maybe become amazing at just one thing, it might help Mum to get well again. He makes friends with Suzy - a nosy Christian with yellow hair and attitude - and with her encouragement he does try to be amazing, but nothing seems to work, not even his historical find on an uninhabited island.Eventually he is amazing, but not in the way he planned. With the help of Suzy and also a teacher, he accepts that God did not make his mother ill but is there to help her. Alex is amazing because he has found a servant heart.This story is told entirely from Alex's viewpoint and is sympathetic to a young person's confused emotions in a situation which sadly, is becoming commonplace. It is sensitively written from the author's own experience. Despite the serious storyline, this book is an entertaining read, and includes both pathos and humour. It's realistic approach will appeal to children and enable adults to understand how they feel.

136 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008