Last Chance is Patrick Cave's second novel, and it asks its readers in the course of a gripping story, some remarkably serious and ethical questions, which undoubtedly will become increasingly complex in the future. On a personal level, fifteen year old Jules feels that he can cope without anyone discovering his father's appearance; his half-sisters are well beheaved, happy and work hard at school and he is star of the school's atheltics track; he is perfectly capable of cooking and washing. He has £3000 in cash and moreover, he is willing to give his father's betting system a go, to supplement the family income.

As time goes on, however, he finds it harder to juggle all of these responsibilities, especially when faced with his weekly sessions with the psychologist (an outcome of previous fmily problems), a nosy childminder and increasingly bizarre behaviour from the twins. He becomes suspicious of the Fuzzballs, and the organisation which makes and markets them, and devotes more and more of his energy to unearthing the facts behind the latest craze. This obsession compromises his family's welfare and his own sanity. Eventually, he discovers the sinister truth, gains confidence in the friendship and help of others, and resolves his personal crises.

Last Chance tackles dark and complex themes, which in addition to issues of mental health raised by Julian's declining ability to cope, consider many aspects of public and personal morality and responsiblity which would provide significant opportunities for PSHE discussion at KS3 and above.

2007-12-31