Synopsis: “ My name is Jackson Jones. I stood and watched a teacher die. For the first time in my life I felt real shock...My whole body actually went numb. They say the brain is like a computer – well, my computer crashed.”

Review: From the first line of this novel, it is difficult not to be gripped by the direct, punchy voice of teenager Jackson Jones. Seemingly, just a normal boy, until he is unfortunate enough to witness the killing of a much respected teacher, Jackson makes it his mission to find out the motive behind what appears on the surface to be a cold-hearted murder. By befriending the late headmaster’s widow and the killer’s mother, he becomes determined that people should look ‘behind the headlines’ to discover the whole truth. We know who did it; we don’t know why.

The book may feature a crime, but it is certainly not a traditional ‘whodunnit.’ It is a psychological unravelling into what might drive a young person to commit such a deed. The subtle characterisation of the extremely perceptive narrator is complemented by gentle humour and often charming childlike innocence. The use of this incredibly engaging character encourages us to be drawn into the narrative and to question our own interpretation of events.

Perhaps where this story has its biggest impact is in its attack on the media. Most of the characters are so caught up in the news coverage, interviews and general sensation surrounding the horrific event, that besides Jackson, no one seems concerned as to why this might have happened. It cannot be ignored that the story is mirrored by similar tales in the media on a daily basis and this could provide an excellent starting point for a discussion, debate or investigation into the power and control the tabloid press has over our knowledge and opinions of current affairs.

2008-01-08