Being a teen’s a tough gig, but what if one gig could save your family?
‘Heart-rending and hilarious, Elias is a memorable creation.’ FINANCIAL TIMES, best books of the summer
‘This debut explores family pressures, neurodivergence and resilience with heaps of humour and heart.’THE i, top children’s books of spring 2026
‘[A] beautifully understated novel … This is a great story for teenage boys, about healing, hope and the joy of bad jokes.’THE TIMES, children’s book of the week
‘Wry, hilarious and acutely observed, this 12+ debut boasts a unique and special voice.’THE GUARDIAN
‘Heartfelt and extremely moving’ THE BOOKSELLER, top 10 titles not to miss
Elias’s brain is a swamp of fears and bad things. His once-loving brother Bo has become a stranger, and his parents are at breaking point.
When Bo falls in with dangerous people, Elias decides he’s the only one who can bring his family back together. But what begins as a simple pizza-night plan quickly spirals into chaos.
Can Elias find a way to reach the people he loves the most before it’s too late?
- The stunning debut novel from Lucas Maxwell, winner of the Times/Chicken House Competition 2024
- Set in wintry Nova Scotia, Canada and inspired by the author’s childhood, this special novel explores themes of family addiction and growing up neurodivergent
- Perfect for fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece and Orbiting Jupiter
- For readers aged 13 and up
‘Unimaginably good … a work of utter genius’ TIA FISHER
‘Gorgeous and sensitive, incredibly thoughtful to its characters who are full of life and colour and vivid detail … a truly special debut.’ MARGARET MCDONALD
‘… has a subtle power. Honest, engaging and warm, Elias’s story will stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.’ SARAH CROSSAN
‘The most gorgeously written and heartfelt debut in years. Breaks your heart into a million tiny pieces all at once and then puts it back together again – a marvel.’ PIERS TORDAY
