Moon Pie by Simon Mason

Several 21st century issues experienced by some young children run through this novel.

The rights of the child, parent and grandparents are brought into conflict as a young family come to terms with the aftermath of the death of a parent. With the death of their mother two young children (Martha and Tug) watch their farther fall apart and become dependent on alcohol in order to cope with his grief. They are pitched into the situation of looking after him whilst not revealing what’s going on to their grandparents, who have  made no secret of their feelings about their son-in-law. Things come to a head and the children are removed from their family home and sent to live with their grandparents. This move affects Martha and Tug differently. One of the effects is that Martha relieved from her burden as carer begins, with the help of her best friend to gain in confidence and blossoms as an actor.

This blossoming acts as a catalyst for the begins of a reconciliation within the family despite some of the antics their dad gets up to.

This is a good read for children who like to read about issues.