Truth or Dare: From the World Book Day 2022 author Sophie McKenzie

great niece thoroughly enjoyed the book

Truth or Dare is an exciting tale of right versus wrong, told through a young girl's eyes.Main character Maya isn't the most likeable person from the start, although she does become more nuanced as the story progresses. Initially, though, she is self-centred and cares about little beyond her immediate bubble of friends, image, and the latest fast fashion styles.Once she begins working at the family factory during the summer holidays, Maya is forced to take on more responsibility and actually soon begins to enjoy her work. But on the flip side, she is drawn toward her new friend Bear and the self-sufficient lifestyle his community leads.These contrasting scenarios quickly begin to tear Maya in two; she doesn't want to let anyone down, yet she is conflicted and feels as though she's forced to choose one over the other. It's a difficult situation, not helped by pressure from the supporting characters and Maya's own conscience.The story itself is dramatic and full of plenty of twists and turns. It's fast-paced and leads up to an intense conclusion that will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. The nail-biting action is underpinned by Maya's moral dilemma, which also adds a unique element to the plot.Gripping and enjoyable, Truth or Dare is another strong story from bestselling Young Adult author Sophie McKenzie.

This is a great YA title from Sophie McKenzie, which challenges the reader to consider the environment versus profit, prejudice, and family relationships.Maya is sent to live her her Gran and Grandpa unexpectedly for the summer. Her relationship with her mother is not great and Maya views this as a punishment. She comes across as spoilt and entitled with very little thought for anyone but herself. Then she meets, Bear, a young man from a local 'hippy' commune who live in a peaceful manner, though are activitists trying to improve the environment and man's relationship with it. Maya learns about her family business (which is the antithesis of everything that Bear and his family believe in) and she resorts to lies about her own life in order to spend time with him.The book addresses many issues which would make great discussion topics: the environment, activism, industry's responsibility to operate ethically, sweat shops, what constitutes a genuine relationship (both with friends and family at different points). The summer holidays deliver an experience that Maya does not expect when she finds herself and her brother, Leo, in a life-threatening situation.A thrilling adventure with lots of unexpected twists and turns.

Truth or DareBy Sophie McKenziePublished by Simon & Schuster LtdAnother gripping page turner from the fabulous Sophie McKenzie.This young adult novel twists storylines of friendship, family, environmental and personal commitments.Fourteen year old Maya has her summer plans ruined when she is whisked to Cornwall to stay with her Gran & Grandpa. But it the lies she tells that feeds into each storyline to create emotional family and business havoc.Working at the family business gives Maya more than just pocket money. She sees both the workings of the factory, how the employees feel and the impact of cosmetic production on the environment.Alongside Maya’s newfound interest in Bear, a teenager just like herself but who lives in an environmentally friendly camp, leads her to tell lie after lie to “fit in” with each aspect; family, work life, new found friendships.But only after a devastating accident happens does Maya know it’s time to tell the truth.Honest, gripping writing with twists to unveil what really matters within our lives.Joanne B - Year 3 teacher of littlies, lover of books.#Netgallery#sophiemckenziebooks

Another gripping story from the queen of teen thrillers. I devoured this book from cover to cover in such a short time because it’s written so brilliantly. The characters are loveable and it’s full of action packed drama that is designed to pack a punch. I can’t wait to read the next book by Sophie McKenzie.

I love a Sophie McKenzie book and this is another great one. Completely spell binding, utterly binge worth and completely gripping I loved it.