Cloud Busting
Malorie Blackman

Subjects
Despite his Mum's insistence, Sam doesn't want to be friends with Davey, he thinks Davey's a first class, grade A, top of the dung heap moron. But one day he saves Sam's life and a bond is formed between them. Sam is still embarrassed to be seen with Davey, but little by little he has to admit, when it's just the two of them, he is a lot of fun.
Reviews

Cloud Busting was a hit with my Year 5 class. Suitable for ages 9 and above, this book tells a touching story about friendship and resilience that really resonated with us. The children appreciated the realistic characters and the way the author tackled difficult themes. Overall, it's a compelling read that sparked meaningful discussions in our classroom.
hannahkav

This is a fantastic story about friendship and how fractuous it can be as peer pressure begins to become a larger part of a child's life, all told in various poetry styles. Although the subject matter is a bit gloomy, ultimately it is a story with a positive message and you will feel optimistic when you finish the book. I enjoyed how Malorie Blackman had a section at the back to discuss the forms she used and why. It has great applications for the classroom in exemplifying poetry- especially showing that it doesn't have to rhyme- and also has boundless applications for PSHE; friendships, individuality, allergies, bullying and loneliness are all themes throughout. I had no gripes at all. I really enjoyed it!
ADGray

An interesting story told in the form of poetry homework by Sam about his friendship with Davey and Alex. He also describes a nasty incident in the poem too which really affected the friendships. What an interesting way to write.
Miss Mann

I love the format of this book, all different types of poems. I think the story will be ideal for antibullying week. Davey the new kid is a likeable character. The twist with Sam was unexpected but clever and superbly written, in fact it gave me goosebumps reading that part.
Kazgrat

This is a great book for Y5 children to explore social issues in the classroom.
S.Atkar

A fantastic book to share with a class of children. A super story, shared in verse, with a very important message about friendship. This book would fit well into work on friendships as well as providing inspiration for writing various styles of poetry.
JCBookworm

Only gave it 5 stars because the option to score it higher isn't available! Love this book! So clever the way it is written. Using this within KS2 next half term to tie in with the fact that I personally love Malorie Blackman's work and it will be anti-bullying week. Going to get a key stage wall display out of this hopefully. Can't wait to share with the children and see their reactions to the events.
p.atki5