Dodger

Published by Turton & Chambers 1990; Puffin 1992 & 1996

Mick is in year 8 at a high school on the edge of the city. When the new history teacher, Penny, casts him as the Artful Dodger in the production of Oliver, he's unsure of what everyone will think. His Nan, who he lives with, will come but what about his Dad, a long distance truck driver?Told from Mick's point of view in a straight narrative and through Penny's letters to a friend.

Awards

Australian Children's Literature Peace Prize: Winner 1991

IBBY (International Board of Books for Young People) Award

Review

'Gleeson's sure touch with characterization, setting and dialogue makes Dodger compulsive and moving reading.' Agnes Nieuwenhuizen, The Age