Five years ago, Flynn lost his mum and dad in a devastating bush fire and it seems like forever he’s been trying to fit in. Now, just when he’s made it onto the under-thirteen Dragons football team, the bully Spike challenges him to a most despicable dare that could cost him everything.
- Where does this book take place?
This story takes place in the Australian bush town of zO in a fantasy world with human-like creatures inspired by the quintessential Australian animal, the koala.
- Who are the main characters and why are they important to the story?
Gruntz, the characters, are like you and I; only they look different. Their ears are furry, their skin is velvety and they have claws. Readers can experience the universal themes of good versus evil, overcoming adversity and the importance of belonging through this very relatable imaginary world.
Flynn Taylor is a 10 year old orphan who hasn’t made any friends at his new school and has attracted the trouble-maker label for his regular detention stints. He’s also no match for the school bullies, led by Spike, and when challenged to a despicable dare he is faced with a choice between doing what is right or saving his sister’s shop from a certain trashing.
Hood (Flynn’s big brother) is 16 years old and sings in his rock band Dark Canyon. He looks out for his little bro and has written a song for the veteran Grunt soldiers who fought to save the world.
Alex (Flynn’s big sister) is 20 years old. She vows to protect her brothers and their town with its surrounding bush and wildlife from the same fate that claimed their parents in a bushfire 5 years earlier.
Spike is in Flynn’s class and he heads up the group of kids that bully Flynn relentlessly. Spike is responsible for the despicable dare that threatens to ruin Flynn’s life. As the story unfolds, however, the two boys’ backgrounds are more similar than you can imagine.
- Why do you think this book will appeal to readers?
Gruntz characters are different to look at but they experience the very same feelings as my young readers. They share the relatable emotions of fun and happiness, loneliness and sadness and most of all … having a best friend and feeling you belong. In the town of zO, there is good and evil. There are champions and heroes; bullies and a villain.
- How is this book relevant today?
Planning to safeguard families, bushland and wildlife from bushfire is central to the plot of this book as well as remembering the bravery and sacrifice of those defending our world.
The story addresses current and contemporary Australian themes including exclusion, bullying and war through a less confronting medium enabling young readers to connect with the characters’ challenges and experiences. It shows that bullying can be turned around if understanding and trust are part of the change.
The book promotes the value of family and intergenerational relationships and demonstrates how loving and protecting those closest to you helps protect everyone and everything else in your community.