This school-based novel is a story of many contrasts: from the excellently bold cover and the whimsical title, to the two main characters – thoughtful Bleakboy and school bully Hunter – who share the narrative, as well as the central theme of our perception of people we cross paths with versus their reality.

We get close to Bleakboy, real name Jesse. He talks to a poster on his bedroom wall that he calls Trevor (it’s really Jesus but his parents are Atheist) and is a remarkably gentle 11-year-old. Hunter keeps more of a distance, very much in character, but he’s easy to warm to: keeping the pain he feels a secret, his bullying behavior at school is in sharp contrast to the considerate way he treats his mum.

Bleakboy and Hunter Stand Out in the Rain is an interesting look at the kinds of pressures children face today, full of people who are trying to do the right thing. An easy, sensitive read for ages 9 and up.

Emily Gale is a Children’s & YA Specialist at Readings Carlton, and a Children’s & YA writer the rest of the time.