Getting Dusty by Jared Thomas

Getting Dusty is the sequel to Uncle Xbox and once again the story is focused on Dusty and the issues that come from growing up. In this story Dusty is faced with a bully and when he bloodies the bully’s nose in a soccer match and is grounded consequently, he feels that he is being unfairly treated. Once again, Uncle Xbox steps in and helps Dusty to face the consequences of his actions and learn from his mistakes as they take some time out to surf and talk. 

I really enjoyed this story and the way that the author dealt with the angst of growing up, being punished when your bully isn’t and finding out that there are always people in your corner – even when it doesn’t feel like it. 

Dusty is a likeable, relatable character with a strong sense of integrity and heart, but he struggles with bullies and limits like any teenager. This is what makes these books so engaging, the fact that the reader can see themselves in the characters and relate to the issues raised and the feelings expressed. This book and the first book in the series are well written and readers will enjoy seeing Dusty experience the world and realizing that one bad decision does not make you a bad person, it is what you do after that can change the way people think of you. 

This book would be brilliant as a class text, especially if the class had read Uncle Xbox first; it is certainly a series that I look forward to reading more of and sharing with other readers.  This book would be a great addition to any home or school library.

Themes: Action, Adventure, Friendship, Australian Bush, Surfing, Bullies, Peer Pressure, Teenagers, Growing up.

Mhairi Alcorn