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LIAM: The Boy Who Saw the World Upside Down
LIAM: The Boy Who Saw the World Upside Down tells the touching and inspiring true story of Liam, a young boy with dyslexia and other challenges, as he navigates a world that often misunderstands him. The story unfolds through the eyes of Ms. J, his empathetic and determined teacher, who strives to uncover Liam’s potential despite systemic obstacles, unkind peers, and his own self-doubt. It’s as much about perseverance as it is about the importance of advocacy, patience, and finding one’s place in a complicated world.
What I loved most about this book was the heartfelt writing. Walraven captures the struggles of a teacher trying to bridge the gap between a child’s potential and the resources available. One chapter that stood out was Liam’s breakthrough moment in class, where he courageously shared his knowledge about salt’s historical significance, stunning both his peers and his teacher. The joy of seeing Liam’s intelligence shine despite his struggles felt like a triumph, and it made me reflect on how small moments of courage can ripple into larger successes.
Another strength of the book lies in its vivid portrayal of the social dynamics in school. The author doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths, such as bullying and administrative apathy. I was particularly moved by the scenes where Ms. J confronts the principal’s dismissive attitude toward Liam’s challenges. The raw honesty of these moments made me angry at the system but grateful for teachers like Ms. J, who fight to make a difference.
The book occasionally leans into sentimentality. For the most part, this added to the emotional depth of the story, though a few scenes felt slightly dramatic when highlighting Liam’s struggles against the indifference of others. Even so, the book’s genuine heart and sincerity more than compensate, leaving a lasting and uplifting impression.
In the end, this book isn’t just about Liam; I think it’s about anyone who’s ever felt marginalized or overlooked. It’s a tribute to educators, parents, and friends who see beyond labels and stereotypes to the potential within. I’d recommend this book to teachers, parents, and anyone interested in stories of resilience and the transformative power of compassion.
Pages: 137 | ASIN : B0BTRTDFX7
The Agony Of My Own Life
Simon Rumney Author Interview
Another Self throws us into the life of a girl who has been broken of all spirit and self-esteem, but by her wits and grit she becomes the richest person in ancient Rome. What was the inspiration behind this fascinating novel?
The sad truth is, this story is inspired by my own life. Because of undiagnosed dyslexia and ADHD I left school at a young age with no qualifications and, more importantly, ‘no’ self-esteem. Like Julia in Another Self I became successful while believing myself undeserving, even deceitful.
The writing in your story is creative and filled with twists. Was it a conscious effort to create a story in this fashion or is this style of writing reflective of your writing style in general?
From the age of 5 until a complete mental breakdown in my late 40’s, I was too ashamed to write anything down. After a psychiatrist diagnosed my dyslexia I started to write spontaneously. This story quite literally poured out of me and took its own course. The character may be a woman and the story set in ancient Rome, but Julia is experiencing the real agony of my own life.
Julia’s character is like none other I’ve read this year. What were some of the trials that you felt were important to highlight the Julia’s development?
Writing Another Self was like therapy for me. Searching for the words that sent Julia on her journey of discovery helped me understand how I could achieve so much while believing myself so completely worthless. Now, I’m a little in love with Julia because she and I have been through so much together.
Can you tell us more about what’s in store for Julia and the direction of the second book in the Our Eternal Curse series?
In book two, Another Tribe, Julia’s character is forced to confront racism in the southern states of America during the civil war. In book three, Another War, she must come to grips with her guileless part in causing The First World War. At the end of book three we learn why Julia has been Eternally Cursed, but I won’t spoil it for your readers.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook
Julia, brilliant yet humbled by cruelty and abuse, overcomes great disadvantage to become the richest person in ancient Rome. Living a double life, she wields power from behind the scenes to bring vengeance down upon those who wronged her. When her schemes ensnare Rome’s two greatest generals, Lucius Cornelius Sulla and Gaius Marius, Julia provokes civil war and condemns herself to suffer for the sins of her past.
LITERARY TITAN 