The Good Turn

Well it is no secret that I am a BIG Sharna Jackson fan! And once again she did not disappoint. This beautifully written Primary age story which tackles a lot of important issues such as immigrations and gentrification. The story also talks about the Windrush scandal in a way that young readers can understand it and the impactful events.The characters are endearing and wish for a world that is good and kind. They make it their mission to make a difference. Josephine, Wesley and Margot have an unlikely but sweet friendship. The friends form a group called the Copsey’s which was inspired by the woman who started the first Girl Scout Troop for Black girls in America – Josephine Holloway.There was a lovely level of mystery and twists throughout with a captivating storyline tackling real world issues with a thought provoking and informative book.

My children love this book.

I bought this for my son. It’s so badly written and so boring that im contemplating just putting it in the bin.

Josephine is an engaging and lively character, her new friend Margo is easy to relate to, and Wesley, drawn in - not always willingly - by the strong presence ofJosephine, make an interesting and lively trio. The Luton setting is realistic, the dialogue totally believable and the good intentions, the fun and the mystery all combine to make a very enjoyable read which will probably appeal to many readers over 9yrs of age. The cultural mix is particularly well portrayed, the families are an integral part of the story and there is much here to relate to, and to learn, but without any preachiness! An ideal gift for a bright, curious girl in particular, but also suitable for many others.

We got this for a 9 yr old grand daughter but she wasn't interested. The characters didn't really reflect children from her experience. I read the book and although the story was interesting I felt it was trying to hard to be politically correct and highlighting the history of the Windrush era.