Me mam, me dad, me - Malcolm Duffy

Humorous and heartbreaking debut novel with the fresh, funny, honest voice of a 14-year-old Geordie lad recounting the trials and tribulations of family life and finding first love. Nominated for the 2019 Carnegie Medal.

Danny's mam has a new boyfriend. Initially, all is good - Callum seems nice enough, and Danny can't deny he's got a cool set up; big house, fast car, massive TV, and Mam seems to really like him.

But cracks begin to show, and they're not the sort that can be easily repaired. As Danny witnesses Mam suffer and Callum spiral out of control he goes in search of his dad.
The Dad he's never met.

Set in Newcastle and Edinburgh, this supremely readable coming-of-age drama tackles domestic violence head on, but finds humour and hope in the most unlikely of places.

Malcolm Duffy is a Geordie, born and bred. His first novel, Me Mam. Me Dad. Me., nominated for the 2019 Carnegie Medal, was inspired by his time at Comic Relief, visiting projects that support women and children who have suffered as a result of domestic abuse.
malcolmduffy.com
@malcolmduffyUK

'It has sweetness and comedy, despite the gravity of its theme' BOOK OF THE WEEK, Sunday Times.

'Touching and compelling to the end ... It has sweetness and comedy, despite the gravity of its theme. And it is a lesson in standing up for yourself and others and finding the people who deserve your trust' The Sunday Times, Book of the Week.

'A glorious, soaring voice telling an important story. Made me guts feel funny, like I was on a rollercoaster' Joanna Nadin, author of Joe All Alone.

'An assured debut ... Danny's honest distinctive voice brings humour and hope' The Bookseller.

'It's an intriguing premise and one that Duffy, whose work as creative director at Comic Relief inspired and informed this novel, handles with aplomb' Claire Hennessy, Irish Times.

'5* A powerful story of filial love when domestic violence gets in the way. An unforgettable central character and a truthful ending make for a truly impactful read' Jill Murphy, The Bookbag.

'I really loved Danny, I loved his Geordie voice, I loved his endearing relationship with his girlfriend Amy. Although this is a story that deals with domestic violence there are some moments that are really funny in it ... A heavy topic dealt with a relatively light touch which is really important' Karen Gregory, Down the Rabbit Hole.

'A memorable and touching read' South Wales Evening Post.

'Never once does the authenticity of the narration waver ... The immediacy of the text is potent' 5 stars, Books for Keeps.

'By turns humorous and heartbreaking' Your Elmbridge.