The Road of Bones by Anne Fine

This chilling & dramatic adventure challenges the nature of beliefs and how they can be exploited to justify real acts of inhumanity. Yuri’s grandmother calls it a glorious lie – everyone believes what they’re told and everyone knows who to cheer for now that the Czar has gone. People vanish, never to be seen again. Yuri knows the dangers but never thinks that he too could be considered an ‘enemy of the state’ for a few careless words. For ages 12+

Set in a totalitarian state this is a brave and uncompromising novel. In spite of dealing with brutality in society, it is never negative and it will have political resonance for young people. Incredibly well written, the author stands back enough to allow her characters space to reflect on their actions.