TRASH by Andy Mulligan
This novel deals with the three main themes of poverty, corruption and friendship and is set in a country (South America/The philippines ??) where many children have to live in or around dumpsites and scavenge among the rubbish for a living. The friendship between 3 boys -Raphael,Gardo and Rat- is put to the test when one of them finds something valuable amidst all the rubbish, is hunted down by the police and unwittingly sets in motion a whole series of events which ultimately transform the boys’ lives.
Verdict: Although this novel isn’t like the literature books I remember studying in my English class for school, I like the way it deals with modern themes like social justice. I think it is suitable for young people to read at Junior Cycle level.
(Aine,Co.Leitrim)