The Song from Somewhere Else

Story

Frank is the new target of a group of school bullies until Nick Underbridge, the unlikeable class loner, comes to her rescue. As they become friends, Frank realises that Nick is nothing like she first thought: His house is welcoming, and the strange music playing there makes her happy. But there’s a secret that Nick has been hiding and Frank must decide whether to keep it.

Why we chose it

A story about bullying and belonging with stunning atmospheric black and white illustrations which enhance the sense of melancholy and menace.

Where it came from

The book begins with ‘The Stolen Orange’ a poem by Brian Patton. It was given to AF Harrold to use in the book as the two have been long-time pen pals. Brian Patton would often encourage AF Harrold to continue his quest to be a writer. Other inspiration for the book came from books he enjoys reading, such as Lord of The Rings. The surname Underbridge is a nod to Underhill – the name Frodo Baggins uses to disguise himself. The bullies are also based on the author’s own school experiences.

Where it went next

Among the awards the book was longlisted for were the CILIP Carnegie Medal (2018) and the ULKA Book Award (2018). It was also shortlisted for the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal (2018), Calderdale Children’s Book Award (2017) and the Teach Primary New Children’s Fiction Award (2017). It won the Amnesty International/CILIP Honour (2018).

Associated stories

Other novels by the author include The Imaginary (2014), Greta Zargo and the Death Robots from Outer Space (2017), Greta Zargo and the Amoeba Monsters from the Middle of the Earth (2018), The Afterwards (2018) and the Fizzlebert Stump Series (2012-2016). AF Harrold is also a poet and has several poetry anthologies published, including The Book of Not Entirely Useful Advice, illustrated by Mini Grey.