John Hickman is an award-winning screenwriter, director and author, based in Newcastle upon Tyne. In addition to his books for children, John also writes for a number of television series, including EastEnders for BBC One, and The Dumping Ground for CBBC. His children’s television script, The Things, won the BAFTA Rocliffe New Writing Competition, and his first book, Freaks United, was shortlisted for the 2017 James Reckitt Hull Children’s Book Award.
Dont't Feed the Troll will definitely engage its audience. It’s full of relatable well-drawn characters. While we deplore his behaviour, we recognise how he might get swept up with it all and can understand his feelings of rejection. Don’t Feed the Troll will prompt children to stop and think about their online behaviour. Don’t Feed the Troll is a cautionary tale about cyber bullying. It’s set in a secondary school and centres around a group of 12-year-olds (Year 8). Given the surge in online trolling and the prevalence of social media, this is a very topical and timely story. It deals with important issues that are sadly very relevant to young people today. The stark reality of the dangers of online trolling is made very clear. We see the damage such behaviour causes to mental well-being, friendships and society. Don’t Feed the Troll will definitely engage its audience. It’s full of relatable well-drawn characters. The situations and friendship dynamics will be familiar. Jack is a nuanced character. While we deplore his behaviour, we recognise how he might get swept up with it all and can understand his feelings of rejection. Don’t Feed the Troll will prompt children to stop and think about their online behaviour. Suitable for children aged 10+