TWO WEEKS WITH THE QUEEN

by Morris Gleitzman ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 28, 1991

A jealous Australian 12-year-old, unable to accept his younger brother's inoperable cancer, feels excluded by his parents' decision to send him to English relatives ""until it's all [over]."" Inspired by the Queen's Christmas Message of concern for a world of suffering and pain, Colin decides to become a hero by asking for her help. His determination to save his brother--despite the efforts of his anti-royalist uncle, overprotective aunt, and wimpy cousin--leads to some very funny scenes as he attempts to invade Buckingham Palace and approaches a doctor at the ""Best Cancer Hospital."" Meanwhile, Colin's relationship with a young man dealing with his lover's AIDS exemplifies the book's earnest honesty while also introducing some humorous moments. More seriously, Gleitzman depicts the denial and anger that accompany grief, portraying Colin's egocentricity, spunk, and pain compassionately and without condescension. Neatly tied together by the incidents involving the queen, this mixture of genuine emotion and humor makes for an engaging story that should have broad appeal.

Pub Date: March 28, 1991

ISBN: 174093797X

Page Count: 144

Publisher: Putnam

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 1991

Categories: CHILDREN'S