Description

WINNER OF THE WATERSTONES CHILDREN’S BOOK PRIZE FOR OLDER READERS 2025
WINNER OF THE SHADOWERS’ CHOICE CARNEGIE MEDAL FOR WRITING 2025
WINNER OF THE JHALAK CHILDREN’S & YOUNG ADULT PRIZE 2025
SHORTLISTED FOR AMAZON BOOK OF THE YEAR 2024

From the award-winning author of Steady For This comes a hilarious and heartwarming new teen comedy!

‘Confirms [Nathanael Lessore] as a major new name in writing for teenagers’ – Observer

ANTON AND HIS FRIENDS ARE THE KINGS OF YEAR 9.

They’re used to ruling the school and Anton wears the crown. The other kids run away when he’s about but that’s the way he wants it – he’s got a reputation to live up to after all.

So when he gets into serious trouble at school, he doesn’t really care, but his mum most definitely does. She decides it’s time for Anton to make some new friends and join the Happy Campers, a local activity group. Anton would quite literally rather do anything else, especially when he finds out Matthew, the biggest loser in school, is also a member.

But after Matthew unexpectedly saves Anton’s life, Anton figures maybe this kid is worth a shot. Teaching him some game is the least Anton can do to repay the debt.

As the boys strike up an unlikely friendship, Anton finds himself questioning everything he thought was important. Does he want ruling the school to be his crowning glory or should he set his sights on better things?

Perfect for teen readers of Alex Wheatle, Jason Reynolds and Patrice Lawrence.

Publisher Review

Writing for younger teenagers, Lessore's lightness of touch creates a funny, page-turning read that deftly addresses topics such as masculinity and grief. -- Best Children's and YA Books of 2024 * The Guardian * Rib-achingly funny, poignant, thoughtful and sly, Lessore's second novel confirms him as a uniquely talented writer. * Guardian * King of Nothing confirms [Nathanael Lessore] as a major new name in writing for younger teenagers . . . It's testament to Lessore's lightness of touch and believable characters that despite delving into big topics such as toxic masculinity and grief, this is an immensely readable book that never feels too worthy. * The Observer * This teen comedy really is very funny, while also being meaningful and heartwarming. * iPaper * This compelling contemporary comedy explores themes of friendship and identity and offers relatable insights into peer pressure and personal growth. Highly recommended for KS3 and KS4. * The School Reading List * This hilarious teen comedy with a male protagonist can rightly claim a laugh on every page. * The (Dundee) Courier * This book is perfect for teens as it is both witty and real. It covers some tough dilemmas in a really engaging way. * Reading Zone * Witty and wise, this is a triumph of a novel * LoveReading * Funny, thought provoking (given the activity of social media influencers like Andrew Tate) and, in Anton's grief when his nan dies, really moving. * Books For Keeps * This book touches on the theme of toxic masculinity and would be a good addition to such a collection. * The School Librarian *