Pyro

by Monique Polak

tagged: law & crime, marriage & divorce, hi-lo

Description

Ever since he was small, Franklin has been soothed by fire.

Staring into the flames helps Franklin forget his problems. And right now, he's got a lot to forget. Franklin's mother has left the family home to be with her hairdresser boyfriend. Franklin's father, the mayor of Montreal West, is too busy worrying about his public image to do anything about the family. As a rash of local fires competes with upcoming elections for media attention, Franklin's father has to work hard to keep the public happy. And Franklin has to reconsider his romance with fire.

This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

About the Author

Monique Polak is the author of 34 books for young people. She is a three-time winner of the Quebec Writer's Federation Janet Savage-Blachford Prize for Children's and YA Fiction (formerly the QWF Prize for Children's and YA Fiction). Her work has been nominated for many other prizes including the CCBC Geoffrey Bilson Prize for Historical Fiction; an Arthur Ellis Award, and the Ruth & Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Award. In addition to writing many stories for the Montreal Gazette, Monique taught at Marianopolis College for 35 years. She continues to do writing workshops at schools across the country.

Contributor Notes

Monique Polak has written numerous novels for youth. Many of them are, like Pyro, set in the Montreal area, where she lives and teaches English and Humanities at Marianopolis College. Monique also works as a freelance journalist.

Age:: 9 to 12
Grade:: 4 to 7
Reading age:: 9 to 12

Awards

Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
Short-listed, Quebec Writers' Federation (QWF) Literary Awards - Janet Savage Blachford Prize for Children’s and Young Adult Literature

Editorial Reviews

"This title is fast-paced, and will hold readers' attention from start to finish."

— Library Media Connection

"A solid coming-of-age story...Its simple plot and language make it accessible to many readers, especially English Language Learners and reluctant young teens. The simplicity of the story does not take away from the depth of the issues or characters."

— Resource Links

"A gripping story about taboo behavior."

— VOYA (Voice of Youth Advocates) Magazine

"An enjoyable read...The characters are likeable, easy to relate to, and well-drawn, especially the good-hearted Franklin and strong-willed Tracy. The plot is fast-paced and compelling and will hook both male and female readers."

— CM: Canadian Review of Materials

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Pyro

by Monique Polak

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